I must say that I am surprised that Allegri opted for the 4231. Nobody would have anticipated him using it especially while deploying Mandzukic on the left.
However, it is worth pointing out that this formation can only be used if Cuadrado is available as there is no natural substitute for him on the right. I also don't think Allegri would opt to have Dybala used in that position.
All of a sudden Cuadrado becomes an automatic starter assuming we persevere with this formation.
Also worth pointing out that it changes our transfer strategy somewhat if we persevere with it next season.
Currently we have 8 central mids if you include Mandragora (or Bentancur next season). 5 forwards with only 2 natural attacking wing players + Mandzukic. In this scenario, someone like Berrardi may actually find space.
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I must say that I am surprised that Allegri opted for the 4231. Nobody would have anticipated him using it especially while deploying Mandzukic on the left.
However, it is worth pointing out that this formation can only be used if Cuadrado is available as there is no natural substitute for him on the right. I also don't think Allegri would opt to have Dybala used in that position.
All of a sudden Cuadrado becomes an automatic starter assuming we persevere with this formation.
Also worth pointing out that it changes our transfer strategy somewhat if we persevere with it next season.
Currently we have 8 central mids if you include Mandragora (or Bentancur next season). 5 forwards with only 2 natural attacking wing players + Mandzukic. In this scenario, someone like Berrardi may actually find space.