Formation explorer

A formation is a starting point, not a position on a chessboard. Pick a shape, then move it through the phases of play: watch the same eleven players become a different structure with the ball, in a mid block and defending deep. Select any player for the role's job in and out of possession.

Shape

How to read the numbers

The digits count outfield players from the back line forward; the goalkeeper is never counted. 4-2-3-1 is four defenders, two holding midfielders, three attacking midfielders and one striker. The numbers describe where players stand without the ball in a settled mid block — which is why one team can be called a 4-3-3 and a 4-5-1 in the same match report: both are true, in different phases.

The pitch is drawn at 105 × 68 m. The Laws of the Game allow anything from 90–120 m long and 45–90 m wide (100–110 × 64–75 m for internationals); 105 × 68 is what UEFA requires of its category 3 and 4 stadiums.

Take it further

Guide: reading a formation Guide: pressing, blocks and build-up Analysis on the web Videos Ask the AI to compare two shapes