Italy National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

Retegui · Barella · Tonali · Dimarco · Bastoni · Scalvini · Palestra · Zaniolo · Raspadori · Chiesa · Donnarumma

Italy looks to control the game through high intensity and verticality with a 2-5-3 formation. This lineup focuses on winning the ball high up the pitch and quickly moving it toward the goal. By using a thin defensive line, the team aims to squeeze the space in the middle of the pitch and force turnovers in the opposition half.

Donnarumma guards the goal, acting as a sweeper behind a high line. The defensive unit consists of just two central defenders, Bastoni and Scalvini, who must be ready to step up to catch attackers offside or cover ground when the ball is switched. Bastoni acts as a ball playing defender with a strong passing range, while Scalvini provides aerial strength to defend crosses. This small defensive unit relies on the midfielders to shield the backline and prevent direct runs toward the goal.

The midfield is the engine of this Italy formation, utilizing a five man block to dominate the center. Dimarco and Palestra operate as a double pivot to protect the two center backs, with Dimarco often looking to drive forward with the ball. Barella and Tonali act as two inverted eights who press aggressively to win the ball high and connect the defensive and attacking lines. Zaniolo plays as an attacking ten behind the striker, operating in the half spaces to create chances. This crowded midfield allows the team to recycle possession and find players through the lines.

In the attacking phase, Italy uses three forwards to stretch the defence. Retegui acts as the lone striker, working to hold up the ball and pin the last defender. Raspadori plays as a left winger who cuts inside to find space, while Chiesa operates as a right winger who looks to take on defenders and get to the byline. The movement of Zaniolo between the lines allows the forwards to play in combinations, creating runs in behind or finding space for cutbacks.

A major tactical advantage of this formation is the numerical superiority in midfield, which allows the team to control the tempo and win the second ball. The wide presence of the attackers and the driving runs of the midfielders create wide overloads that pull the opposition out of position. Additionally, the high press from the front three makes it difficult for opponents to play out from the back.

This 2-5-3 formation is built for aggressive, high pressing football. It is best suited for games where Italy can dominate possession and overwhelm the opponent through the middle of the pitch.