Lyon Football Formation

Starting Lineup

16- G. Restes*
2- M. Gusto*
4- A. Disasi*
19- M. Niakhaté
16- A. Vinícius
10- N. Fékir*
8- C. Tolisso
6- L. Da Cunha*
9- L. Openda
11- K. Nakamura
26- K. Boudache

Lyon focuses on a compact defensive block and quick transitions using a 4-5-1. The team seeks to squeeze the space between the lines and win the ball back high up the pitch to catch opponents off balance. This formation is built to play a direct style of football where the midfield works hard to cover ground and support the lone forward.

G. Restes plays behind a flat back four to protect the goal. A. Disasi acts as the right centre-back to defend the zone and cover the space behind the full backs. M. Niakhaté provides strength in the middle of the defense to win the second ball and clear the lines. M. Gusto operates as an attacking full back on the right to provide width, while A. Vinícius plays on the left to help the defense and support the midfield. The defensive unit works together to hold the line and prevent runs in behind.

The midfield functions as a five man unit designed to control the center of the pitch. L. Da Cunha sits in the single pivot role to shield the defense and protect the centre backs. C. Tolisso sits alongside him to help recycle possession and connect the defensive and attacking lines. K. Nakamura and K. Boudache operate in the half spaces to drive forward with the ball and support the press. N. Fékir acts as the advanced playmaker to link the midfield to the striker and find the feet of the striker during attacks.

Lyon uses a lone striker in L. Openda to lead the line. He acts as a pressing centre-forward to force the opposition back line into mistakes. The wide midfielders are expected to pull wide and provide crosses to the box. When the team wins the ball, they look to hit in behind on the transition to exploit the space left by the opponent. The goal is to create situations where the forwards can combine in tight spaces or use speed to break the line.

One major advantage for Lyon is the ability to press high in coordinated waves through the five midfielders. This creates significant pressure on the opponent to force a long ball. Another strength is the compactness when defending, which makes it very difficult for the opposition to play through the lines. The lineup also allows for quick wide overloads when M. Gusto overlaps the winger.

This 4-5-1 formation creates a very solid mid block that is difficult to break down. It is best suited for matches against teams that dominate possession where Lyon can strike on the break.