Milan Football Formation

Starting Lineup

16- M. Maignan
42- G. Scalvini*
46- M. Gabbia
36- R. Calafiori*
8- S. Tonali*
7- R. Orsolini*
19- Y. Fofana
32- A. Rabiot
33- D. Bartesaghi
9- G. Scamacca*
11- C. Pulisic

Milan uses a 3-5-2 formation. The tactical identity of this Milan lineup is built around a high press and quick transitions. This formation aims to control the central areas of the pitch while using the width of the wings to stretch the opposition back line. It is a system designed to dominate through physical presence and verticality in the middle third.

M. Maignan acts as the last line of defense, using his sweeping ability and distribution to start attacks. The back three consists of M. Gabbia in the center, with G. Scalvini on the right and R. Calafiori on the left. Scalvini and Calafiori are tasked with stepping up into midfield to disrupt play, while Gabbia holds the line to cover gaps. The wing backs, R. Orsolini on the left and D. Bartesaghi on the right, push high to provide width and track back to form a five man defensive block when the team sits deep.

The midfield operates with a central trio that balances protection and creativity. S. Tonali sits in the pivot to shield the defense and break lines with his passing range. Beside him, Y. Fofana and A. Rabiot occupy the central roles to drive the ball forward and press opponents. This trio connects the defense to the attack by recycling possession and making runs into the box to support the two forwards.

Milan employs two attackers in a front two. C. Pulisic plays as a left striker, often looking to cut inside from wide areas to find shooting lanes. G. Scamacca operates as the right striker, using his aerial strength to hold up the ball and act as a target for crosses. The forwards press the opposition center backs heavily to force mistakes and create quick turnovers in the final third.

One major advantage of this formation is the numerical superiority in the middle of the pitch. By having three central midfielders, the team can often outnumber opponents playing a two man midfield. Another strength is the ability to create wide overloads when R. Orsolini and D. Bartesaghi overlap with the wingers. This forces the opposition to shift laterally, which opens passing lanes through the center.

This 3-5-2 formation relies on intense pressing and heavy physical presence in the central channels. It is best suited for matches against teams that play a narrow formation and struggle to cope with wide attacks.