1990 - 1999

The ’90s were a tactically peculiar decade. Influenced by Sacchi’s revolution, the approach was less defensive and more focused on pressing the opponent, favoring aggressiveness, athleticism, and ball recovery over creativity.

The prevalent formation in Europe was a compact 4-4-2, which I’ve chosen to replicate here. The team employs zonal marking, a high defensive line, aggressive ball recovery, a pure winger (Giggs), and an adapted attacking midfielder (Hagi), with a creative second striker (Baggio) and a classic number 9 upfront.

Goalkeeper:
Schmeichel was remarkable for his size, agility, goalkeeping prowess, charisma, and a touch of madness. He’s my number 1.

Defense
Choosing the defenders was straightforward. Franco Baresi, who possibly reached his peak in the previous decade, saw the ’90s as the time of his ultimate affirmation on both the continental and world stages. Alongside Maldini, he is considered one of the strongest defenders in football history, part of one of the most formidable defenses ever. On the right, I chose “Pendolino” Cafu, a world-class full-back, and alongside Baresi, Lilian Thuram, another defender I greatly admired.

Midfield
Though considered the “weakest” link, it’s strong by any standard, featuring Redondo and Matthaeus in ball recovery and playmaking, Giggs as the left winger, and Hagi in an adapted attacking midfield role.

Attack
Leaving out powerhouses like Batistuta and Romario was tough, but the Baggio-Ronaldo duo seemed ideal for their complementary styles, with Baggio’s talent in setting up Ronaldo.