3-5-2 11v11
Three centre-backs, five midfielders including wing-backs, and two strikers.
Your assistant coach: line your squad up in it, track who played where and see if it gets results.
Strengths
- Strong in central midfield
- Wing-backs give width
- Two strikers
Watch out for
- Wing-backs need huge energy
- Space behind the wing-backs
Coaching tip
Only use it if your wing-backs can get up and down for the full game. Rotate them at half-time.
Positions in this shape
- GK: Goalkeeper. Stops shots, organises the defence and starts attacks by passing or throwing out.
- LCB: Left centre-back. One of a back three: covers the left channel and steps out with the ball.
- CB: Centre-back. Defends the middle in front of goal, wins headers and tackles, and starts play from the back.
- RCB: Right centre-back. One of a back three: covers the right channel and steps out with the ball.
- LWB: Left wing-back. Gives width on the left in attack and drops into defence without the ball.
- CM: Central midfielder. Links defence and attack, passes and receives under pressure, and covers lots of ground.
- RWB: Right wing-back. Gives width on the right in attack and drops into defence without the ball.
- ST: Striker. Scores goals, holds the ball up and leads the press from the front.
Opens the free line-up builder with this shape loaded.
Other 11v11 formations
Coaching guides
Free AI coaching help from Gafferbook. Ask anything about coaching your team.
Questions
What age groups play 11v11?
In England (FA Future Fit, 2026/27) 11v11 is played at U14, U15, U16, U17, U18. In Scotland's player pathway it is played at U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U18. Leagues can vary, so check your league's rules.
Is the 3-5-2 good for 11v11?
Three centre-backs, five midfielders including wing-backs, and two strikers. Only use it if your wing-backs can get up and down for the full game. Rotate them at half-time.