Nantes Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Nantes focuses on high pressing and vertical football within a 3-5-2. This formation is built to win the ball high up the pitch and strike quickly during transitions. By squeezing the space in the middle, the lineup aims to force turnovers and exploit gaps in the opposition back line. The goal is to maintain a compact block while being ready to break quickly when the chance arises.

Dupé starts in goal to organize the defensive unit. The back line uses a back three consisting of Yusuf on the left, Doucouré in the center, and Amian on the right. Yusuf and Amian act as wide centre-backs to cover the space and provide width when the team pushes up, while Doucouré stays central to win the header and clear the lines. This ensures the unit can defend zonally and avoid being pulled out of position.

The midfield works to link the defense and the attack. Centonze and Guilbert form a double pivot to shield the defense and recycle possession. Younoussa and Deuff move into the half-spaces as two tens to help progress through the thirds and connect the midfield to the front line. Tabibou plays as an attacking ten behind the strikers, looking to receive on the half-turn and play through the lines. This group works to win the ball high up the pitch and trigger a press when the opposition tries to build from the back.

The attack utilizes two forwards in a partnership to pressure the opposition. Ganago and Haller lead the line, where Ganago acts as a pressing centre-forward to force a long ball. Haller works to hold up the ball and lay it off to teammates. Their movements are designed to create runs in behind and allow the midfield to arrive late into the box. They often look to hit in behind on the transition to catch defenders out of position.

A major tactical advantage is the ability to press high in coordinated waves, with Tabibou and the forwards leading the charge. The midfield group provides numerical superiority in the central areas, making it hard for opponents to play through the lines or find the feet of the striker. This allows Nantes to win the second ball and maintain constant pressure. The formation also allows for quick switches of play to isolate wide players in one on one situations.

This 3-5-2 formation is built for an aggressive and vertical identity. It is best suited for facing opponents that play a high line or struggle to defend against quick transitions.