Roma Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Svilar (Gollini) · Ndicka (Ghilardi) · Mancini (KOULIERAKIS) · Hermoso (BALERDI) · Konè (Pisilli) · Cristante (DE ROON) · LEWELING (MORA / Pellegrini) · Dybala (Soulè) · Wesley (X) · MOLINA (Rensch / Lulli) · Malen (CASTRO)

Roma relies on a high press and rapid transitions through a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup focuses on winning the ball high up the pitch to catch opponents before they can settle into their defensive positions. By using a heavy attacking front line, the team looks to play vertically and exploit gaps in the opposition defense as soon as possession is regained.

In goal, Svilar acts as the last line of defense. The defensive unit operates with a back three consisting of Ndicka in the center, flanked by Mancini and Hermoso. Mancini provides physical presence and aerial strength while Hermoso works to cover space and play out from the back. The wide defenders, Wesley and MOLINA, act as attacking wing backs who must provide the width for the team. Wesley pushes high to overlap the winger, while MOLINA uses his pace to carry the ball forward down the right flank. The whole unit works to maintain a high line to squeeze the space for the opponent.

The midfield relies on a double pivot to control the center of the pitch. Cristante acts as a carrier who drives forward with the ball to link the defense to the attack. Konè works alongside him to press aggressively and win the second ball in the middle third. Together, they must protect the space in front of the back three and ensure the team stays compact when defending. This duo is responsible for recycling possession and finding the attackers quickly once the ball is won back.

The attacking trident uses a three-man front line to stretch the defense. Malen plays as a pressing centre-forward, constantly looking to run in behind the last defender. LEWELING and Dybala operate as wide attackers, with Dybala often looking to cut inside to create chances or shoot. These players work to pin the last defender and create room for the wing backs to arrive late into the box. Roma builds attacks through combinations in tight spaces, using the movement of the front three to trigger runs from the midfield.

One major strength of this formation is the ability to create wide overloads when Wesley and MOLINA push forward. This creates a situation where the wingers can occupy central areas, leaving the flanks open for the wing backs to whip it in. Another advantage is the compactness in a mid-block, where the five defenders and two midfielders can quickly shift to block passing lanes. This setup makes it difficult for opponents to play through the center.

This 5-2-3 formation is built for a team that wants to dominate through high intensity and verticality. It is best suited for matches against opponents who struggle to play out from the back under heavy pressure.