Everton Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Pickford · Norton-Cuffy · O’Brien · Branthwaite · Svensson · Garner · Iroegbunam · Dewsbury-Hall · Dibling · Ndiaye · Barry

A high pressing and vertical identity defines Everton in this 5-2-3 formation. This lineup aims to win the ball high up the pitch and quickly transition into attacking phases to catch opponents off guard. By utilizing a back five, the team maintains a strong defensive base while looking to exploit wide areas and quick direct passes to the front three.

Pickford acts as the foundation in goal, organizing the defensive unit from the back. The defensive line consists of a central trio featuring Garner, O’Brien, and Branthwaite. Branthwaite provides height and aerial strength, while Garner and O’Brien cover the space around him to stop central breakthroughs. On the flanks, Svensson and Norton-Cuffy operate as wing backs to provide width and track back when the team loses possession. This arrangement allows the back five to sit deep or step up to squeeze the space between the lines.

The midfield works as a double pivot to control the center of the pitch. Dewsbury-Hall and Iroegbunam occupy the two central roles, tasked with breaking up play and driving the ball forward. Dewsbury-Hall looks to connect the defense to the attack with his passing range, while Iroegbunam works to intercept passes and protect the back three. They must work closely together to ensure there is no gap between the midfield and the defensive line.

In the attacking third, the team employs three dedicated attackers. Ndiaye and Dibling occupy the wide positions as wingers, ready to cut inside or beat their markers on the flank. Barry operates as the lone striker, tasked to hold up the ball and lead the press from the front. The movement of Ndiaye and Dibling creates space for Barry to turn, while the wing backs push high to support the final ball.

One major advantage of this formation is the defensive compactness it offers when sitting deep. The width provided by Svensson and Norton-Cuffy allows Everton to create overloads on the flanks during transitions. Additionally, the presence of Branthwaite and Garner provides security against long balls and crosses, making it difficult for opponents to find space in the box.

This 5-2-3 formation provides a balance of defensive solidity and rapid counter attacking threat. It is particularly effective against teams that commit many players forward and leave space behind their midfield.