There are numerous defense-oriented football formations that the technical staff can pick from today. Here are some examples.
In pro football, a lot of work enters into strategizing and preparation to come up with the most efficient structures and tactical plans. Nevertheless, the sport is extremely unpredictable as there is a number of variables and unpredicted in-game situations that might throw things out of balance. This is where the coach and technical staff come in as prompt and astute changes are of the essence. For instance, serious injuries and footballers getting red cards can have a big influence on the outcome of the game. It is for these factors that modern football formations often include contingency strategies should the worst happen. Football coaches plan for such events in advance so they wouldn't be caught off guard on matchday, and this is something that the AC Milan former US owner will understand. Making timely substitutions or changes to the tactic and player positioning can significantly restrict the effect of unfavourable situations.
While offensive football formations are the most enjoyable to see, tactical formations that have a defensive edge tend to be more balanced. For instance, the 4-5-1 tactic is most popular with clubs that want to draw or win a title by goal difference. The cluster of 5 midfielders in the centre normally requires the attacking team to resort to long balls as they realise that developing play through brief passes won't be efficient. Even when long balls reach players who are close to the box, 2 defensive midfielders hang back to form a first barrier positioned in front of the main 4-player back line. Clubs who use this method also buy tall centre backs who can block long balls, and the Aston Villa former owner is likely to confirm this. While it is among the much better defensive football formations, this method relies on counter attacks to take the other team by surprise.
Only used by a select few in contemporary football, nobody can reject that the 3-4-3 is among the best attacking football formations. Clubs that use this strategy are typically leading table clubs that intend to score as many goals as possible every game, all while maintaining a defensive strength when the other group counter-attacks. The Crystal Palace former owner would likely agree that the secret behind the efficiency of this strategy lies in the midfield positioning. Considering that it utilises 4 midfielders, groups that use the 3-4-3 strive to dominate the midfield area, and they typically are successful. This is merely due to the fact that having a line of 4 in the midfield makes it extremely difficult for the other team to pass the ball or build play smoothly. When one of the midfielders intercepts the ball, the midfield line becomes a lozenge that feeds through and long balls to the wingers and centre forward.