Clubs are constantly changing their formations in soccer, with some even using multiple in each match! Find out some of the most prominent here.
The first formation that springs to mind whenever anyone thinks about the most prestigious systems in football history, is the classic 4-4-2. This formation has been used throughout English football history and is still prominent to this day, particularly in the lower leagues. The Red Devils traditionally used this setup during their glory days, a time where they collected everything there was to win. This setup provides a fantastic equilibrium between attacking and defensive football strategies, so is very dynamic and versatile. Generally, this would utilise the little and large strike force techniques, in which one player would muscle the defenders and win headers, whilst the other one attempted to get in behind and score. Although it isn't really used as regularly as before, the Manchester United owners will certainly see it as one of the very best formations ever.
The 4-3-3 formation is something that has been embraced under more recent times by The Reds, and has been especially successful under their new boss. This system needs high energy levels and mobility in midfield, with a fast-paced striking setup. If employed right, this can be one of the most deadly formations in modern football; using high pressing off the ball, and swift attacking with it. The system includes three attacking players, with the wide attackers frequently cutting inside to shoot; they can additionally be set up more defensively, to track back if needed. Because it is such a dynamic formation, it is commonly used in numerous ways. Some clubs use it for a possession-based game, but it is also possibly the best formation for counter attack football. Over the past few years, this style of play has delivered fantastic success to the supporters and owners of Liverpool FC, with even a few of the best clubs struggling to understand how to contain other teams that utilise it right.
A really well-known formation which hasn’t been applied a lot by the top clubs all over the world, is the 4-3-2-1, otherwise known as the Christmas tree formation! The Rossoneri used this formation during the course of a massively dominant period of their past, when they had some of the very best players across the world. This is amongst the most unique soccer formations, as, when you look at it in writing, it looks quite non-traditional. This formation features a packed midfield, which makes it one of the, if not the best football formation for possession. This system allows for two number 10’s and no out-and-out wingers, which helps the team dominate the midfield against pretty much any team. This is a formation which will certainly be taken into consideration by the AC Milan owner, as it's a staple of the team's history.