Al-Ittihad Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Rajkovic (Al-Absi) · Danilo (Kadesh) · Simic (Sharahili) · Mings* (Al-Mousa) · Mitaj (Fernandes[Erik*]) · Fabinho (Al-Nashri) · Barkley* (Doumbia[Al-Ghamdi]) · Shanqeeti (Al-Obood[Bishi]) · Diaby (Aouar[Alghamdi]) · Murphy* (Bergwijn[Ballo*]) · En-Nesyri (Al-Shehri)

Al-Ittihad aims to control games through a high press and rapid transitions using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup relies on aggressive movement to win the ball back high up the pitch and create quick chances. The team uses this system to squeeze the space in the middle and force the opposition into mistakes.

Rajkovic sits between the posts to command his area. In front of him, the back three functions as a sturdy block. Simic sits in the center to direct the line, while Danilo and Mings act as the wide centre-backs. Danilo and Mings are expected to cover the wide areas when the wing backs push up, ensuring the team does not get caught on the break. This defensive unit is tasked to defend zonally and keep a compact shape to prevent through balls.

The midfield operates with a central pairing and two wide players. Fabinho acts as the single pivot to shield the defence and recycle possession. Barkley plays alongside him to drive forward with the ball and connect the defensive and attacking lines. Shanqeeti and Mitaj occupy the wide areas, acting as wing backs to provide width. Shanqeeti and Mitaj must track back to help the defenders and ensure the team remains solid when out of possession.

Up front, Al-Ittihad employs three attackers to stretch the defence. En-Nesyri acts as the central striker, using his aerial strength to win the header and hold up the ball. Diaby and Murphy operate as wide attackers. Diaby tends to cut inside from the left to create central threats, while Murphy looks to get to the byline and whip it in. This front line is designed to press the opposition back line and create runs in behind.

The primary advantage of this formation is the ability to create wide overloads when Shanqeeti and Mitaj push forward. This puts pressure on the opposition full backs and allows Diaby and Murphy to find more space in the half spaces. Additionally, the midfield pairing of Fabinho and Barkley allows the team to win the second ball and transition quickly from a mid-block to an attack.

Al-Ittihad uses this 3-4-3 formation to dominate territory and punish teams through quick vertical play. It is best suited for matches where the team needs to pin the opposition back and exploit wide channels.