AEK Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Brignoli · Rota (Georgiev) · Moukoudi · Relvas · Pillios · Zubkov (Koita) · Vitalis (Kutesa) · Marin (Mantalos) · Majer (Zini) · Varga · Jovic

AEK focuses on a vertical style of play built around a 4-4-2 formation. This lineup aims to win the ball in central areas and hit the opposition quickly. The team looks to use direct passes to find the forwards as soon as they win possession.

Brignoli stays between the posts to organize the back line. AEK uses a flat back four with Rota and Pillios acting as full backs to provide width. Moukoudi and Relvas play as the central defenders where they focus on winning the header and marking the striker. Rota and Pillios are tasked to track back when the team loses the ball to maintain a compact block.

The midfield is built around a three man midfield with a carrier and an attacking ten. Vitalis plays as the single pivot to shield the defence and pick up runners. Marin and Zubkov sit in front of him to press in a mid block and win the second ball. Majer operates as an attacking ten behind the strikers to link the lines and play through the lines with his passing.

AEK uses two forwards in a partnership to stretch the defence. Varga and Jovic work together to press from the front and force a long ball from the opponent. Jovic looks to hold up the ball while Varga makes runs in behind to pull the defenders out of position. The team relies on the wingers and full backs to find the feet of the striker or deliver early crosses into the box.

This formation offers the ability to press high in coordinated waves when Majer and the forwards trigger the press. AEK can also gain numerical superiority in midfield when Majer drops deep to help Vitalis, Marin, and Zubkov. The ability to transition quickly allows the team to catch opponents out of position.

This 4-4-2 formation provides a solid base for counter attacking football. It is best suited for games against teams that play a high line and leave space behind their defence.