Atlético Football Formation

Starting Lineup

CURTOIS · ??? · GODIN · MIRANDA · FELIPE LUIS · GABI · MARIO SUAREZ · ADRIAN LOPEZ · ARDA TURAN · DIEGO · FALCAO

Atlético focuses on a high press and verticality using a 4-3-3. This formation is built to win the ball back high up the pitch and strike quickly. The team looks to squeeze the space in the final third and transition with speed.

Thibaut Courtois acts as the last line of defense in goal. The back four functions as a zonal line to keep the team compact. Godin serves as a dominant force in the air and can step into midfield to disrupt play. Miranda covers the space behind while playing as a ball playing defender. Felipe Luis provides width from the left and is expected to overlap the winger. The right back must track back to support the central defenders and maintain the defensive block.

The midfield operates as a three man midfield with a carrier. Gabi, the captain, sits deep to shield the defense and wins the second ball. Mario Suarez connects the defensive and attacking lines by carrying the ball forward. Adrian Lopez plays as an attacking ten behind the striker to find the feet of the striker. This trio works to compress the midfield and deny the turn of opposition players.

Atlético utilizes three attackers across the front to stretch the defense. Falcao acts as a pressing centre forward who can hold up the ball and link up play between the lines. Diego works on the right wing as an inverted winger who will cut inside to create chances. Arda Turan plays on the left and is tasked to pull wide and deliver early crosses. These players work to isolate a one on one wide and hit in behind on the transition.

The formation offers a few clear tactical advantages. The team can press high in coordinated waves to force a long ball from the opponent. There is also a high speed of transition when the ball is won. This allows the players to bypass the midfield and attack the near post or far post quickly.

Atlético relies on a compact shape and aggressive pressing to control games. This lineup is best suited for facing teams that try to play out from the back.