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PSG Football Formation

Creation DateToday, September 14, 2026

Starting Lineup

Matvey Safonov · Achraf Hakimi · Nuno Mendes · Willian Pacho · Marquinhos · Vitinha · João Neves · Warren Zaïre-Emery · Khvicha Kvaratskhelia · Désiré Doué · Ousmane Dembélé

PSG focus on high pressing and attacking intent using a 4-3-3 formation. This lineup seeks to dominate the ball and push the opposition deep into their own half through rapid ball movement. The team aims to win it back high up the pitch to maintain constant pressure on the opponent.

Matvey Safonov operates between the posts to command the area. In front of him, the back four functions as a high line to squeeze the space. Marquinhos acts as a ball playing defender to start attacks, while Willian Pacho provides cover and strength alongside him. Achraf Hakimi plays as an attacking full back to provide width, and Nuno Mendes performs similar duties on the left to push high up the flank.

The midfield works as a three-man midfield with a carrier to drive the play. Vitinha sits as a single pivot to shield the defence and recycle possession. Next to him, Warren Zaïre-Emery and João Neves connect the defensive and attacking lines. João Neves is known for his work rate and ability to win the second ball, while Warren Zaïre-Emery carries the ball forward to break the line. These players work together to compress the midfield and deny the turn of opposition players.

PSG utilizes three attackers across the front to stretch the defence. Ousmane Dembélé plays as a central striker who often drops deep to link up play. On the wings, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia acts as an inverted winger who cuts inside to create chances, while Désiré Doué operates on the opposite flank to provide width. This setup creates runs in behind and allows for cutbacks from the byline when the full backs overlap the winger.

This formation offers great speed of transition and the ability to press high in coordinated waves. PSG can create wide overloads by using Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes to double up on the flanks. The team can also use numerical superiority in midfield to control the tempo and play short from the back.

The 4-3-3 formation provides a potent offensive threat and strong ball retention. This lineup is best suited for matches against teams that sit deep and struggle to track runners in the half-spaces.