Custom Team Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Thibaut Courtois (Atletico 2011-2014) (Atlético) · Billy Bremner (Leeds 1960-1976) (Leeds) · Michael Ballack (Bayer 1999-2002) (Bayer Leverkusen) · Marek Hamsik (Napoli 2007-2019) (Napoli) · Son Heung-min (Spurs 2015-2025) (Tottenham) · Telmo Zarra (Athletic 1940-1955) (Athletic) · Nabil Fekir (Lyon 2013-2019) (Lyon) · Mats Hummels (Dortmund 2009-2016) (Borussia Dortmund) · Vincent Candela (Roma 1997-2005) (Roma) · Bobby Moore (West Ham 1958-1974) (West Ham) · Maicon (Monaco 2004-2006) (Monaco)

A heavy emphasis on defensive solidity and quick transitions defines this lineup, which operates in a 5-2-3 formation. The team seeks to sit deep in a mid-block before hitting the opposition in behind with pace. This formation is built to defend the central areas while using the width of the pitch to stretch the opposition once the ball is won back.

Thibaut Courtois acts as the last line of defense, providing massive presence in the goal. The back line consists of a back three with Billy Bremner acting as the central anchor. Bobby Moore plays as the right centre-back, using his ability to read the game to intercept passes, while Mats Hummels occupies the left centre-back spot to provide ball playing qualities. Maicon works as an attacking wing back on the right, ready to overlap and push high up the pitch, whereas Vincent Candela provides similar width from the left wing back position. The unit functions to hold a compact shape and force the play wide.

The midfield employs a double pivot to control the center of the pitch. Michael Ballack operates as one of the two central midfielders, using his physical strength and ability to drive forward with the ball to link the lines. Beside him, Marek Hamsik provides more creative passing to help the team progress through the thirds. These two must work together to protect the back three and ensure they do not get bypassed in transition. They act as the bridge between the defensive unit and the front three.

The attacking line features three players across the front. Telmo Zarra acts as the lone striker, serving as a target man to hold up the ball and fight for headers. On the wings, Son Heung-min plays as an inverted winger on the left, looking to cut inside and take shots with his clinical finishing. Nabil Fekir occupies the right wing, also looking to cut inside and create chances in tight spaces. This front line is designed to press from the front to trigger a press, often looking for runs in behind to exploit space.

One major advantage for this team is the ability to create wide overloads when Maicon and Vincent Candela push forward. This forces the opposition wingers to track back and leaves them outnumbered. Another strength is the compactness when defending in a mid-block, making it very difficult for opponents to play through the middle. The speed of transition from the double pivot to the three attackers allows for quick breaks.

This 5-2-3 formation is designed for a team that wants to be hard to break down while remaining dangerous on the counter. It is best suited for games against dominant sides that push high and leave space behind their defense.