World Cup 2018 Tactics: 5 Possible Options for Argentina

#3 Guardiola’s Barcelona: 4-3-3

Barcelona used 4-3-3 in 2008-09

Speaking of formations in which Lionel Messi flourishes, 4-3-3 can never be disregarded. The 30 year old reached his peak playing in that formation for Pep Guardiola at Barcelona as the Blaugrana conquered Europe. Playing Messi at the right of a front three (as shown below) while still giving him the license to roam may be the magical “formula” for Argentina:

4-3-3

Angel Di Maria could (theoretically) be the creative yet pacey left-winger needed in such a formation (almost a poor man’s Neymar). Up front, Aguero’s poaching abilities along with his occasional creative tendencies are ideal for a target man in this formation.

In addition, the double pivot of Mascherano and Enzo Perez would allow Ever Banega to operate from an advanced position (thus making full use of his creative talents).

Having three men in midfield would also mean that Messi would not feel the need to drop back into midfield and could instead focus on chance creation.

Moreover, the formation would allow Argentina to match Nigeria (who also like to play with a 4-3-3 formation) thus allowing Albiceleste’s superior talent to prevail. Finally similarly to 4-2-3-1, 4-3-3 is a formation that most of the squad will be familiar with.

Despite being a relatively ‘safe’ formation for Argentina, 4-3-3 may not be perfect considering the form of some key players. The main problem is Angel Di Maria, who has had a terrible start to the World Cup- looking like a shadow of his usual self.

A below-par Di Maria would reduce the effectiveness of such a formation. Even more worryingly, Argentina do not have reliable options to replace the PSG player as both Dybala and Salvio play on the right.

Furthermore, Dybala cannot be accommodated into this formation- thus preventing Argentina from playing with their second best player. The midfield may also prove worrisome as Perez has struggled so far in the tournament- yet remains the only option for such a formation (adding Biglia would reduce the team’s attacking effectiveness).

After all, a midfield trio of "Banega, Perez and Mascherano" cannot match the quality of Guardiola's Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets. Even then, 4-3-3 remains a viable option for Sampaoli because of the freedom it provides Messi.

Follow Sportskeeda for 2018 World Cup Scores, Latest News & Updates, Match Analysis, Detailed Stats, Fantasy Tips, Controversies, Match Predictions and much more.