The 3-5-2 formation has been a popular tactical choice among soccer coaches in recent years. This unique formation consists of three defenders, five midfielders, and two forwards. Many teams have successfully used this formation to achieve great results, but the question remains, is the 3-5-2 formation a good choice for modern soccer? In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of the 3-5-2 formation, its strengths and weaknesses, and how it compares to other formations in today’s game. Whether you’re a coach, player, or simply a soccer enthusiast, this article will provide you with valuable insights into one of the most intriguing formations in modern soccer.
The Rise of the 3-5-2 Formation
History and Evolution of the Formation
The 3-5-2 formation has its roots in the Italian game, specifically in the 1960s, where it was primarily used as a counter-attacking formation. It was later popularized by Italian clubs such as Juventus and Inter Milan, who achieved considerable success with this system. The formation became even more prominent in the 1990s, as managers like Arrigo Sacchi and Carlo Ancelotti continued to experiment with the formation, leading to its widespread adoption across Europe.
The evolution of the 3-5-2 formation can be attributed to various factors, including changes in tactical philosophy, the emergence of new tactical ideas, and advancements in player development. As the game became more sophisticated, managers sought to exploit the advantages offered by the 3-5-2 formation, such as increased defensive stability and greater attacking potency.
The 3-5-2 formation gained popularity in the early 2000s, as coaches sought to combat the growing influence of 4-4-2 formations. This led to the development of new tactical ideas, such as the “Christmas tree” formation, which featured three central midfielders and two wide attacking players. This innovative approach to the 3-5-2 formation provided teams with increased flexibility and offensive threat, further boosting its popularity among coaches and managers.
Over time, the 3-5-2 formation has continued to evolve, with managers and coaches incorporating new tactical ideas and strategies to improve its effectiveness. This ongoing evolution has allowed the formation to remain relevant in modern soccer, making it a popular choice for many top teams around the world.
Successful Teams and Tactics
The 3-5-2 formation has become increasingly popular in modern soccer due to its versatility and success on the pitch. Many teams have found success with this formation, thanks to its ability to provide both defensive stability and attacking prowess. Some of the most successful teams and tactics associated with the 3-5-2 formation include:
- AC Milan under Carlo Ancelotti: During the 2000-2001 season, AC Milan won the UEFA Champions League using the 3-5-2 formation. Carlo Ancelotti, the team’s manager at the time, utilized the formation’s defensive strength to solidify the team’s backline while also exploiting the midfield and attack with a combination of creative players like Andrea Pirlo and Rui Costa.
- Tottenham Hotspur under Mauricio Pochettino: Under Mauricio Pochettino, Tottenham Hotspur achieved great success using the 3-5-2 formation, reaching the UEFA Champions League final in 2019. The team’s use of wing-backs, such as Danny Rose and Kyle Walker, provided attacking width and created overloads down the flanks, while the three central defenders offered stability and resilience.
- Juventus under Massimiliano Allegri: During his tenure at Juventus, Massimiliano Allegri often employed the 3-5-2 formation to great effect. By utilizing experienced defenders like Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, along with attacking fullbacks like Alex Sandro and Andrea Barzagli, Juventus were able to dominate games both in Italy and in Europe.
These examples highlight the versatility and effectiveness of the 3-5-2 formation, demonstrating how it can be successfully implemented by various teams and managers in different contexts.
Understanding the 3-5-2 Formation
Key Features and Characteristics
The 3-5-2 formation is a tactical setup that has gained popularity in modern soccer due to its versatility and ability to accommodate a variety of playing styles. Here are some of the key features and characteristics of this formation:
- Three defenders: The formation features three central defenders who are responsible for providing a solid defensive line and preventing opponents from scoring. These defenders usually play a crucial role in the build-up play, helping to pass the ball out from the back.
- Five midfielders: The 3-5-2 formation has five midfielders, two of whom are typically more attacking in nature than the other three. These midfielders are responsible for controlling the central areas of the pitch, winning possession back, and creating chances for the attackers.
- Two attackers: The formation has two attackers, typically positioned as strikers or wingers, who are tasked with scoring goals and creating opportunities for their teammates. The attackers often work closely with the midfielders to create space and score goals.
- Wide players: The two attackers in the 3-5-2 formation often play as wide players, which allows them to take advantage of the space on the flanks and create crossing opportunities. The wide players also provide width to the team, which can make it more difficult for the opposition to defend against.
- Dynamic positioning: The 3-5-2 formation allows for a high degree of flexibility in terms of player positioning. For example, the midfielders can drop back to form a back three, or the fullbacks can push forward to create an attacking threat. This dynamic positioning can make it difficult for opponents to predict the team’s movements and respond effectively.
- Set-piece strength: The 3-5-2 formation can be particularly effective from set pieces, such as corners and free kicks, due to the overload of players in the opposing penalty area. This can lead to more scoring opportunities and ultimately, more goals.
Overall, the 3-5-2 formation is a popular tactical choice in modern soccer due to its ability to provide a strong defensive foundation while also allowing for creativity and attacking flair. Understanding the key features and characteristics of this formation can help coaches and players make informed decisions about how to best utilize it on the pitch.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The 3-5-2 formation is a tactical setup that has been utilized by various soccer teams around the world. It involves three central defenders, five midfielders, and two forwards. While this formation has its advantages, it also has its drawbacks. In this section, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of the 3-5-2 formation in modern soccer.
Advantages
- Versatility: The 3-5-2 formation provides teams with the flexibility to adapt to different game situations. It can be used to counterattack, control possession, or sit back and defend. This versatility allows coaches to tailor their tactics to specific opponents and match scenarios.
- Defensive stability: With three central defenders, the formation offers a solid defense that is difficult to break down. The defenders can cover a wide area, and the midfielders can provide additional support when needed. This setup allows teams to absorb pressure and counterattack effectively.
- Offensive potency: The 3-5-2 formation can create numerical superiority in the attacking third. With two forwards and five midfielders, teams can overwhelm opponents and create scoring opportunities. This offensive potency can be particularly effective against teams that sit back and defend.
Disadvantages
- Lack of balance: The 3-5-2 formation can leave the midfield exposed, as there are only two central midfielders. This can result in a lack of balance between defense and attack, making it difficult for the team to transition from defense to offense.
- Space in behind: With two forwards, the formation can leave space in behind for opponents to exploit. This can be particularly dangerous if the fullbacks are caught out of position, as it can leave the team vulnerable to counterattacks.
- Susceptible to pressing: The 3-5-2 formation can be susceptible to pressing, as it can leave the midfielders exposed to pressure from opponents. This can disrupt the team’s ability to control possession and create scoring opportunities.
Comparing the 3-5-2 Formation to Other Formations
Popular Alternatives
The 3-5-2 formation is not the only tactical approach that teams use in modern soccer. Several other formations have gained popularity in recent years, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular alternatives to the 3-5-2 formation.
4-3-3 Formation
The 4-3-3 formation is one of the most widely used formations in modern soccer. It involves four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards. This formation is known for its attacking prowess, as it provides a good balance between defense and offense. The three forwards can create numerous attacking options, while the three midfielders can support both the defense and the attack.
4-4-2 Formation
The 4-4-2 formation is another popular alternative to the 3-5-2 formation. It involves four defenders, four midfielders, and two forwards. This formation is known for its physicality and its ability to control the midfield. The four midfielders can help to win possession back for the team, while the two forwards can provide a target up front.
3-4-3 Formation
The 3-4-3 formation is a variation of the 3-5-2 formation, with an extra defender added to the mix. This formation involves three defenders, four midfielders, and three forwards. This formation is known for its ability to create width on the pitch, as the three forwards can stretch the defense and create space for the midfielders to operate in.
Each of these formations has its own strengths and weaknesses, and teams will often choose a formation based on their specific playing style and the strengths of their players. However, the 3-5-2 formation remains a popular choice for teams looking to implement a more defensive-minded approach, while still maintaining a strong attacking threat.
Strengths and Weaknesses Comparison
One of the main advantages of the 3-5-2 formation is its versatility, as it can easily transition between defensive and offensive strategies. The three central defenders provide a solid backline, while the five midfielders offer excellent coverage in the middle of the field. Additionally, the two strikers can create a strong attacking threat, making it difficult for opposing teams to defend against.
However, the 3-5-2 formation also has its weaknesses. One of the main challenges is the lack of natural wingers, which can make it difficult to create width and stretch the opposition’s defense. Additionally, the formation can be vulnerable to counter-attacks, as the midfielders may be caught out of position when transitioning from defense to offense.
Another potential weakness of the 3-5-2 formation is the lack of protection for the fullbacks, who may be exposed to attacks from the opposition’s wingers. This can be mitigated by having the midfielders drop back to provide additional support, but it can also limit the attacking potential of the fullbacks.
Overall, the 3-5-2 formation can be an effective strategy in modern soccer, but it is important to carefully consider the strengths and weaknesses before implementing it on the pitch.
Factors Contributing to the Success of the 3-5-2 Formation
Team Strategy and Tactics
Effective Use of Wide Players
One of the key factors contributing to the success of the 3-5-2 formation is the effective use of wide players. In this formation, the two wide players, typically positioned on the wings, play a crucial role in creating attacking opportunities and providing width to the team. They are tasked with supporting the fullbacks and the central midfielders, as well as contributing to the defensive efforts when necessary. By using the width of the field effectively, the team can create more space for attacking movements and exploit the weaknesses of the opposing team.
Narrow Midfield
Another tactic employed in the 3-5-2 formation is the use of a narrow midfield. In this setup, the three central midfielders are positioned close together, forming a more compact midfield unit. This approach allows the team to control the center of the field and disrupt the opposing team’s ball circulation. The narrow midfield also enables the team to maintain a higher defensive line, putting pressure on the opposing team and limiting their options for building attacks. However, it is important to note that this approach requires strong defensive discipline from the midfielders, as they will need to track back and support the defense when necessary.
Flexibility in Attacking Transitions
The 3-5-2 formation also offers flexibility in attacking transitions, allowing the team to quickly transition from defense to offense. This is particularly important in modern soccer, where teams often press high up the field and look to win the ball back as soon as possible. With a 3-5-2 formation, the team can effectively switch from a defensive to an offensive mindset in a matter of seconds, taking advantage of any opportunities that arise. This flexibility can catch the opposing team off guard and create scoring opportunities.
Pressing and Regrouping
Finally, the 3-5-2 formation allows for effective pressing and regrouping. In this formation, the wide players and fullbacks are well-positioned to apply pressure on the opposing team, forcing them to make mistakes and turn over possession. By pressing aggressively, the team can disrupt the opposing team’s rhythm and create turnovers in favor of the 3-5-2 formation. When the team wins the ball, they can quickly regroup and transition to an offensive mindset, looking to capitalize on the opposition’s disorganization.
In summary, the success of the 3-5-2 formation in modern soccer is heavily influenced by the team’s strategy and tactics. The effective use of wide players, the narrow midfield, flexibility in attacking transitions, and pressing and regrouping are all key factors that contribute to the overall effectiveness of this formation.
Player Roles and Responsibilities
In the 3-5-2 formation, players are strategically positioned to optimize their individual and collective strengths. The roles and responsibilities of each player within this formation play a crucial role in its overall effectiveness.
The Wide Forwards
The wide forwards, also known as wing forwards, are positioned on the left and right wings of the attacking third. They are responsible for providing width and attacking prowess, creating opportunities for their teammates and scoring goals themselves. Their pace, dribbling skills, and ability to cross the ball are essential for the success of the 3-5-2 formation.
The Central Midfielders
The central midfielders, also known as pivot or holding midfielders, sit in front of the defense, acting as the metronome of the team. They are responsible for breaking up opposition plays, winning back possession, and starting counter-attacks. Their positioning and ball-winning abilities are vital for the team’s overall control of the game.
The Central Defenders
The central defenders, also known as center-backs, form the backbone of the defense. They are responsible for marshaling the defense, protecting the goal, and starting the build-up play. Their ability to read the game, intercept passes, and distribute the ball accurately is essential for the team’s overall success.
The Wide Defenders
The wide defenders, also known as wing-backs, are positioned on the left and right of the defense. They provide additional support to the central defenders, allowing the team to maintain a narrower shape when out of possession. Their attacking prowess and defensive responsibilities make them key players in the 3-5-2 formation.
The Goalkeeper
The goalkeeper is the last line of defense, responsible for preventing the opposition from scoring. Their command of the penalty area, ability to claim crosses, and distribution are critical aspects of the 3-5-2 formation’s success.
By understanding the unique roles and responsibilities of each player within the 3-5-2 formation, coaches can better utilize their players’ strengths and create a more effective team strategy.
Team Dynamics and Cohesion
- Importance of a strong team spirit in the 3-5-2 formation
- How team dynamics and cohesion impact the overall performance of the team
- Factors that contribute to the development of a cohesive team in the 3-5-2 formation
The 3-5-2 formation relies heavily on team dynamics and cohesion for its success. A strong team spirit is essential for the effective execution of the tactics and strategies employed in this formation. The players must be able to work together seamlessly, with each player knowing their role and responsibilities within the team.
One of the main factors that contribute to the development of a cohesive team in the 3-5-2 formation is effective communication. Players must be able to communicate with each other both on and off the pitch, sharing information and coordinating their movements to ensure that they are all working towards the same goal.
Another important factor is trust. Players must trust each other to perform their roles and responsibilities effectively, knowing that their teammates will be there to support them when needed. This trust is built over time through consistent performance and positive team interactions.
Additionally, a sense of shared purpose and goal is crucial for the development of a cohesive team in the 3-5-2 formation. The players must be focused on achieving the same objectives and be committed to working towards them together. This shared purpose helps to foster a sense of belonging and loyalty among the players, which in turn contributes to the development of a strong team spirit.
Overall, team dynamics and cohesion play a crucial role in the success of the 3-5-2 formation. By focusing on building a strong team spirit, effective communication, trust, and a shared sense of purpose, teams can maximize their potential and achieve success on the pitch.
Case Studies: Successful Implementation of the 3-5-2 Formation
Team Profiles and Tactical Analysis
In this section, we will delve into the team profiles and tactical analysis of teams that have successfully implemented the 3-5-2 formation. This will involve examining the specific tactics and strategies employed by these teams, as well as the key players who have contributed to their success.
Team Profile: Napoli
Napoli is one of the most successful teams to have implemented the 3-5-2 formation in recent years. Under the guidance of coach Maurizio Sarri, Napoli finished second in the Serie A league in the 2016-2017 season, with a record of 24 wins, 8 draws, and 6 losses.
Tactical Analysis: Napoli
Napoli’s success with the 3-5-2 formation was built on a number of key tactical principles. Firstly, they utilized the width of the pitch effectively, with the two wing-backs providing a strong attacking threat and supporting the wingers in possession. Secondly, they used the central midfielders to control the tempo of the game and link up play between the defense and attack. Finally, they relied on the two central strikers to provide a physical presence up front and create space for the other attacking players.
Key Players: Napoli
Two key players who contributed to Napoli’s success with the 3-5-2 formation were Marek Hamsik and Dries Mertens. Hamsik, a versatile attacking midfielder, played a crucial role in linking up play and creating scoring opportunities, while Mertens, a winger, scored a total of 18 goals in all competitions during the 2016-2017 season.
Team Profile: Bayern Munich
Another team that has had success with the 3-5-2 formation is Bayern Munich. Under the guidance of coach Jupp Heynckes, Bayern won the Bundesliga title in the 2017-2018 season, with a record of 27 wins, 8 draws, and 3 losses.
Tactical Analysis: Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich’s 3-5-2 formation was characterized by a strong focus on possession and attacking play. The team’s three central defenders provided a solid base, while the two wing-backs offered support in both defense and attack. The central midfielders were tasked with controlling the tempo of the game and providing a link between defense and attack, while the two central strikers provided a physical presence up front and created space for the other attacking players.
Key Players: Bayern Munich
Two key players who contributed to Bayern Munich’s success with the 3-5-2 formation were Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller. Lewandowski, a prolific striker, scored a total of 29 goals in all competitions during the 2017-2018 season, while Muller, a versatile attacking midfielder, played a crucial role in linking up play and creating scoring opportunities.
Key Matches and Moments
- The Battle of the Bridge: Chelsea vs. Liverpool (2012)
- Chelsea’s 3-5-2 formation allowed them to control the midfield and prevent Liverpool’s attacks.
- The defense’s ability to work together and maintain a high line led to numerous counter-attacks and goals.
- Napoli’s Resurgence under Maurizio Sarri (2017-2018)
- The 3-5-2 formation provided Napoli with an attacking edge, resulting in more goals scored.
- The formation allowed for greater flexibility in attack, with the wing-backs providing width and support.
- Atlético Madrid’s Defensive Masterclass (2013-2014)
- The 3-5-2 formation allowed Atlético Madrid to compress the pitch and disrupt the opposition’s attacks.
- The formation’s defensive solidity was instrumental in securing a runner-up finish in the La Liga title race.
- Tottenham Hotspur’s Surprising Success (2018-2019)
- The 3-5-2 formation allowed Tottenham to effectively transition from defense to attack.
- The wing-backs’ attacking prowess contributed to the team’s overall improved offensive output.
- Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City (2016-2019)
- The 3-5-2 formation provided greater control over the midfield, allowing Manchester City to dominate possession.
- The formation’s versatility allowed Guardiola to field multiple tactical variations and maintain success.
Criticisms and Limitations of the 3-5-2 Formation
Weaknesses and Vulnerabilities
While the 3-5-2 formation has proven to be a highly effective tactical approach in modern soccer, it is not without its weaknesses and vulnerabilities. Here are some of the key limitations of this formation:
- Lack of defensive cover: With only three central defenders, the 3-5-2 formation can leave the team vulnerable to counter-attacks, as there is a lack of defensive cover when the team is out of possession. This can lead to gaps in the defense that opposition teams can exploit.
- Weakness in midfield: The 3-5-2 formation can also leave the team vulnerable in midfield, as there are only two central midfielders. This can make it difficult to maintain control of the game and cover all areas of the pitch.
- Dependency on fullbacks: The 3-5-2 formation relies heavily on the fullbacks for both attack and defense. If the fullbacks are not performing well, the team can struggle to create scoring opportunities or prevent opposition attacks.
- Difficulty in defending set pieces: With only three central defenders, the 3-5-2 formation can be vulnerable to set-piece goals, as there are fewer players to defend against crosses and free kicks. This can be particularly problematic against strong opposition teams with quality set-piece takers.
- Lack of flexibility: The 3-5-2 formation can be inflexible, as it relies on a specific set of player roles and positions. This can make it difficult for the team to adapt to changing game conditions or opposition tactics.
Overall, while the 3-5-2 formation can be highly effective in the right circumstances, it is important for teams to be aware of its limitations and weaknesses. By understanding these vulnerabilities, teams can take steps to mitigate them and improve their overall performance on the pitch.
Counterstrategies and Countermeasures
When it comes to the 3-5-2 formation, there are several criticisms and limitations that coaches and analysts have pointed out. One of the main concerns is the vulnerability of the wing-backs, who are often caught out of position due to their dual role as both defenders and midfielders. This can lead to gaps in the defense and a lack of cover for the full-backs.
To counter this, some teams have implemented specific tactics and strategies to neutralize the threat of the wing-backs. One such tactic is to press aggressively and force the wing-backs to give up the ball in their own half, thus limiting their ability to join the attack. Another strategy is to double-team the wing-backs, either by having a midfielder or a defender shadow their movements or by deploying an extra defender to mark them specifically.
Another limitation of the 3-5-2 formation is the lack of a traditional central midfielder, which can leave the team vulnerable in the middle of the park. To counter this, some teams have opted to use a double-pivot midfield, with two central midfielders sitting in front of the defense and providing additional protection. This can also help to control the tempo of the game and disrupt the opposition’s attacking plays.
Additionally, some teams have also implemented a more conservative approach to the 3-5-2 formation, using a fifth defender or a defensive midfielder to provide additional protection in the backline. This can help to mitigate the risk of conceding goals and give the team more stability in defense.
Overall, the effectiveness of the 3-5-2 formation depends heavily on the specific tactics and strategies employed by the team. While there are certainly limitations to the formation, there are also counterstrategies and countermeasures that can be used to mitigate these issues and help the team succeed on the pitch.
Assessing Your Team’s Needs and Strengths
Before implementing the 3-5-2 formation, it is crucial to assess your team’s needs and strengths. This will help you determine if the formation is suitable for your team or if there are other formations that would be more effective. Here are some factors to consider:
- Team’s Style of Play: The 3-5-2 formation relies heavily on wing play and crosses, so it may not be suitable for teams that prefer a more direct approach or have slower players up front.
- Player Positions: It is essential to have players who can excel in specific positions. For example, the two wingers should be fast and skillful, while the two central midfielders should be able to control the game from deep.
- Team’s Defensive Strengths: The 3-5-2 formation can leave the central defense exposed, so it is important to have strong central defenders who can read the game well and anticipate opposition attacks.
- Team’s Physicality: The 3-5-2 formation requires players to cover a lot of ground, so it may not be suitable for teams that lack physicality or stamina.
- Team’s Tactical Intelligence: The 3-5-2 formation requires players to understand and execute complex tactics, so it may not be suitable for teams that lack tactical intelligence or struggle with communication on the pitch.
By assessing these factors, you can determine if the 3-5-2 formation is the right choice for your team or if there are other formations that would be more effective in helping your team achieve its goals.
Factors to Consider Before Adopting the 3-5-2 Formation
Before implementing the 3-5-2 formation, several factors must be considered to ensure its effectiveness. These factors include:
- Team Strengths and Weaknesses: The 3-5-2 formation can be effective if the team’s strengths align with the formation’s characteristics. However, if the team’s strengths lie in different areas, the formation may not be suitable. Therefore, it is essential to assess the team’s strengths and weaknesses before adopting the 3-5-2 formation.
- Player Positions and Roles: The 3-5-2 formation requires players to fulfill specific roles and positions. Players must be able to play in multiple positions, and the team must have players with the necessary skills to play in these positions. The formation’s success depends on the players’ ability to play in different roles and positions.
- Team Tactics and Style of Play: The 3-5-2 formation requires a specific tactical approach and style of play. The team must have a clear understanding of how to defend and attack using the formation. The team’s tactics and style of play must align with the 3-5-2 formation’s characteristics.
- Opposition’s Formation and Style of Play: The opposition’s formation and style of play must also be considered before adopting the 3-5-2 formation. The team must have a plan to counter the opposition’s formation and style of play. If the opposition plays a different formation, the team must be prepared to adjust their tactics accordingly.
- Injuries and Suspensions: The 3-5-2 formation requires a full squad to be effective. If key players are injured or suspended, the team may struggle to implement the formation successfully. Therefore, the team must have a backup plan and alternative formations to fall back on if key players are unavailable.
By considering these factors, teams can determine whether the 3-5-2 formation is suitable for them and increase their chances of success on the pitch.
FAQs
1. What is the 3-5-2 formation?
The 3-5-2 formation is a tactical system used in soccer where the team fields three central defenders, five midfielders, and two strikers. This formation is also known as the “Christmas tree” formation due to the shape it creates on the field.
2. How effective is the 3-5-2 formation in modern soccer?
The effectiveness of the 3-5-2 formation in modern soccer is a topic of debate. Some coaches and analysts believe that the formation can be effective if used correctly, while others believe that it is outdated and unsuitable for modern soccer. The success of the formation largely depends on the quality of the players and the tactics used by the team.
3. What are the advantages of using the 3-5-2 formation?
One advantage of using the 3-5-2 formation is that it provides a strong defense with three central defenders. It also allows for a numerical advantage in midfield, which can help the team control the game and create more scoring opportunities. Additionally, the formation can provide more attacking options with two strikers on the field.
4. What are the disadvantages of using the 3-5-2 formation?
One disadvantage of using the 3-5-2 formation is that it can leave the team vulnerable to counter-attacks, as the midfield is stretched and the defense can be exposed. Additionally, the formation can be difficult to implement effectively, as it requires a high level of tactical knowledge and coordination among the players.
5. Can the 3-5-2 formation be successful in modern soccer?
Yes, the 3-5-2 formation can be successful in modern soccer if used correctly. It requires a strong understanding of the tactics and the ability to effectively use the three central defenders, five midfielders, and two strikers. Successful teams that have used the 3-5-2 formation include Napoli, Atalanta, and Leicester City.
6. Are there any famous teams or coaches who have used the 3-5-2 formation?
Yes, many famous teams and coaches have used the 3-5-2 formation throughout history. For example, the Italian national team used the formation to win the 1982 FIFA World Cup, and more recently, Napoli used the formation to win the Serie A title in the 2019-2020 season. Some notable coaches who have used the formation include Carlo Ancelotti, Marcelo Bielsa, and Brendan Rodgers.
