Atlético Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Grimaldo · M. Llorente · Romero · Hancko · Le Normand · Koke · Hjulmand · J. Alvarez · Sørloth · Baena · Oblak

Atlético focuses on a high press and quick transitions using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup seeks to squeeze the space in the opposition half and win the ball back high up the pitch. By utilizing a compact middle section, the team can quickly move from a defensive block into a vertical attack.

Jan Oblak sits in goal to provide a reliable last line of defense. The back line operates as a three man unit consisting of Hancko, Romero, and Le Normand. Hancko plays as the left centre back to cover the wide area, while Le Normand and Romero act as the central anchors to win the second ball and clear the lines. This back three stays disciplined to prevent through balls and maintains a high line to compress the playing area.

The midfield functions with a central pairing of Koke and Hjulmand. Koke acts as the link between the lines, using his passing range to recycle possession and find the forwards. Hjulmand sits closer to the defensive unit to shield the defence and intercept passes. On the flanks, Grimaldo and M. Llorente act as wide midfielders who provide width. Grimaldo is expected to overlap the winger and whip it in, while M. Llorente uses his energy to drive forward with the ball and track back when needed.

In the attacking third, Atlético uses three attackers to stretch the defence. Sørloth plays as a lone striker and target man, using his aerial strength to hold up the ball and win headers. Baena and J. Alvarez operate as wide attackers, with Baena cutting inside to find the feet of the striker. J. Alvarez looks to isolate defenders one on one or deliver early crosses. These three forwards press from the front to force a long ball from the opposition.

Atlético gains a significant advantage through wide overloads when Grimaldo and M. Llorente push high. The team also benefits from the ability to press high in coordinated waves, making it difficult for opponents to play out from the back. This creates many opportunities for quick transitions and counter at pace once the ball is won.

This formation is built for a team that wants to dominate through intensity and verticality. It is best suited for games against opponents that struggle to play through a heavy press.