There are lots of defense-oriented football formations that the technical personnel can choose from today. Here are some examples.

In pro football, a lot of work enters into strategizing and preparation to come up with the most effective structures and tactical plans. Nonetheless, the sport is really unpredictable as there is a variety of variables and unforeseen in-game situations that might throw things out of balance. This is where the coach and technical staff come in as prompt and astute adjustments are of the essence. For instance, serious injuries and footballers getting sent off 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 modifications to the tactic and player positioning can significantly restrict the effect of unfavourable situations.

While offensive football formations are the most enjoyable to watch, tactical formations that have a defensive edge tend to be more stable. For instance, the 4-5-1 formation is most popular with clubs that want to draw or win a title by goal average. The cluster of 5 midfielders in the centre generally forces the attacking team to turn to long balls as they understand that building play through short passes won't be effective. Even when long balls reach players who are close to the area, two defensive midfielders drop back to form a first barrier placed in front of the primary 4-player back line. Clubs who employ this strategy likewise acquire tall centre backs who can intercept long balls, and the Aston Villa former owner is most likely to validate this. While it is among the better defensive football formations, this strategy depends on counter attacks to take the other club by surprise.

Just utilised by a select few in modern-day football, no one can deny that the 3-4-3 is one of the best attacking football formations. Clubs that use this technique are generally leading table clubs that intend to score as many goals as possible every match, all while retaining a defensive solidity when the other team counter-attacks. The Crystal Palace former owner would likely agree that the secret behind the effectiveness of this technique depends on the midfield positioning. Given that it utilises 4 midfielders, groups that use the 3-4-3 strive to dominate the midfield area, and they often succeed. This is simply because having a line of 4 in the midfield makes it incredibly challenging 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.