Alavés Football Formation

Starting Lineup

RAÚL (FERNÁNDEZ) · JONNY (OTTO) · VILLE (KOSKI) · PACO (SANZ) · VICTOR (PARADA) · CARLOS (PROTESONI) · ANDER (GUEVARA) · JON (GURIDI) · ÁNGEL (PÉREZ) · DENIS (SUÁREZ) · IBRAHIM (DIABATÉ)

A high press and rapid transitions define the tactical identity of Alavés in this 4-3-3. The lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and push forward quickly to catch the opponent out of position. This formation targets teams that struggle with ball retention under pressure and relies on verticality to move from defense to attack in seconds.

RAÚL stands between the posts to organize the defensive line. A flat back four forms the base of the defense with PACO and VILLE acting as the central pairing. PACO and VILLE must stay compact to prevent runs between the lines, while VILLE provides aerial strength. On the flanks, VICTOR and JONNY act as full backs who must track back to help the center while also being ready to overlap once the team wins possession.

The midfield functions through a central trio that manages the tempo and ball progression. ANDER and CARLOS operate in the deeper roles to shield the defense and intercept passes, while JON plays as an attacking midfielder to link the lines. JON works to find pockets of space behind the opposition midfield, allowing the team to break the line with vertical passes. This three man unit ensures Alavés maintains a central presence to prevent counter attacks.

Leading the charge, IBRAHIM acts as the lone striker to hold up the ball and pin the opposition center backs. He is supported by two wide attackers, ÁNGEL and DENIS, who occupy the wings. ÁNGEL and DENIS often cut inside to create numerical superiority in the half spaces, leaving space for the full backs to push up. The forwards are expected to press in waves to force turnovers in the final third.

One major advantage for Alavés is the ability to create wide overloads through the movement of ÁNGEL and DENIS combined with the runs of VICTOR and JONNY. The team also gains strength from the pressing intensity of the front three, which can isolate defenders in one on one situations. By keeping the midfield compact, the team can quickly shift play to the wings to exploit space.

This 4-3-3 formation makes Alavés a difficult side to play against due to their aggressive pressing and quick transitions. It is a setup best suited for matches against opponents who try to build play slowly from the back.