Milan Football Formation

Starting Lineup

N. Fortini (Bartesaghi) · Pavlovic (Tiago Gabriel) · Maignan (L. Torriani) · Mario Gila (Gabbia) · Norton-cuffy (Athekame) · S. Guirassy (Carlos Espi) · Adrien Rabiot (À. Jashari) · Samuele Ricci (L. Modric / W. Bondo) · Pulisic (Chaka Traoré) · R. Orsolini (Saelemakers) · K. Karetsas (Alphadjo Cissé / Comotto)

Milan focuses on heavy pressing and quick transitions using a 4-3-3 formation. This lineup aims to win the ball high up the pitch and push forward rapidly to catch opponents out of position. The goal is to maintain verticality through every phase of play, using the width of the pitch to stretch the opposition defense.

Maignan sits between the posts to organize the back line and distribute the ball quickly. The defensive unit operates as a flat back four with Mario Gila and Pavlovic acting as the central pair. Mario Gila provides cover while Pavlovic looks to intercept passes and step up during the press. On the flanks, Norton-cuffy and N. Fortini act as full backs who must balance their defensive duties with the need to overlap and provide width in the attacking third.

The midfield works as a trio that connects the defense to the frontline. Adrien Rabiot acts as a presence in the middle to break up play and drive the ball forward with his physical presence. Samuele Ricci plays alongside him to help control the tempo and move the ball between lines. K. Karetsas operates in a more advanced role as an attacking midfielder to link the central area with the forward line, making runs into the box to support the striker.

Milan uses three attackers to pin the opposition back. S. Guirassy leads the line as a lone striker, tasked to hold up the ball and finish chances. On the wings, Pulisic and R. Orsolini act as inverted wingers who love to cut inside and create goal scoring opportunities. Pulisic uses his dribbling style to beat markers on the flank, while R. Orsolini looks to find space in the channels. These forwards press in coordinated waves to force turnovers in the final third.

This formation offers several tactical advantages, such as the ability to press high in coordinated waves to disrupt the build up of the opponent. The presence of Pulisic and R. Orsolini allows the team to isolate wide players in one on one situations when they receive the ball in space. Additionally, the movement of K. Karetsas creates numerical superiority in the central areas during the attacking phase, making it harder for opponents to mark the runners.

The 4-3-3 formation provides Milan with a high intensity pressing identity. It is best suited for games against teams that try to build from the back and struggle under physical pressure.