Tottenham Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Van de Ven · Tonali · Solanke · Kudus · Porro · Bentancur · Fernandes · Senesi · van Hecke · Kinsky · Kulusevski

Tottenham aims to play with a high press and rapid transitions using a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and hit the opposition with verticality. The system relies on heavy pressure to force turnovers and use the width provided by the wing backs to stretch the opposition.

Kinsky plays behind a back five that can shift between a narrow block and a high line. Bentancur acts as the central defender to hold the line, while Senesi and van Hecke provide coverage on either side. Senesi is strong in the air, and van Hecke works to sweep behind the high line when the team pushes up. Porro operates as an attacking wing back on the right to provide width, and Van de Ven acts as a left wing back who can use his pace to recover defensively. The whole unit works to squeeze the space and compress the pitch.

The midfield utilizes a double pivot to control the center of the park. Tonali plays as a carrier to drive forward with the ball, while Fernandes works to connect the defensive and attacking lines. Fernandes is known for his passing range and ability to play through the lines. These two midfielders must cover a lot of ground to protect the back five and ensure they can recycle possession when the initial attack fails. They are responsible for winning the second ball and managing the tempo of the game.

In the final third, Tottenham uses three attackers to pin the opposition back. Solanke acts as a pressing centre-forward to lead the line and hold up the ball for others. Kudus operates as an inverted winger on the right to cut inside, while Kulusevski stays wide on the left to deliver crosses or find space in the half-spaces. This front three is designed to attack in combinations and create runs in behind. They look to isolate wide players in one on one situations and use quick movements to split the defence.

One major advantage for Tottenham is the ability to create wide overloads through the movement of Porro and Van de Ven. The team also benefits from the speed of transition when the midfield duo wins the ball back high up the pitch. Having Solanke lead the press allows the wingers to press in pairs, making it difficult for opponents to play out from the back.

This 5-2-3 formation creates a heavy presence in both the attacking and defensive thirds. It is best suited for games against teams that play a high line and can be caught on the break.