FC Sochaux-Montbéliard Football Formation

Lineup (4-5-1)

Sochaux's 4-5-1

In this formation Boudebouz takes his position as a right midfielder. Martin fills in as pseudo-trequartista, as his defensive qualities force him to assume resposibility when Les Lionceaux are not in possession.

Anin drops back into an anchor role. He plays very much like Alexandre Song from Arsenal yet he keeps his position much better. His duty is to mark any opposing attacking midfielders. He does it well.

Boudebouz does have a tendency to drift and cut inside, which is natural for any proper inverted winger. This leaves a gaping hole which the brilliant Sebastien Corchia takes full advantage of.

Since both the RB and RM do have an attacking mindset, its crucial that Nogueira or Roudet play closer to Boudebouz. Were Martin and Boudebouz to play side-by-side, Anin would be overwhelmed with the gaps left for opposing sides left to expose.

With Nogueira hanging back, Martin has the license to find gaps in behind the midfield. He also tends to make follow-through runs into the opposition's 18-yard box, which remind us very much of a certain Cesc Fabregas.

Mikari holds back and either covers Martin or makes a run for Mr. Martin if needed. And Maiga drifts towards the corner flags, making it easy for midfielders to find him while he holds it up. He is also immense in the air.


What amazes us is how often Martin drifts in behind the defense and over to the right, near Boudebouz. He almost, more often than not, plays as a RAM.

If Martin does not go, then Boudebouz squeezes in (leaving room for Corchia) and Martin drops back a little; content to let Ryad exploit the space while he dictates play.