World Cup 2018: 5 ways Argentina can line up in Russia

Argentina endured a topsy-turvy qualifying campaign, relying on the heroics of Lionel Messi to clinch qualification in the last game. Their talismanic captain will no doubt be crucial for success in Russia, but the pieces around him will have to contribute as well.

Such is the attacking prowess of La Albiceleste that striker Mauro Icardi was left out of Jorge Sampaoli's squad. Sampaoli has a good headache he must deal with, considering the riches of forward and midfield options at his disposal.

Sampaoli is an aggressive manager who likes his team to attack with no restrictions. It can be said that if anyone can bring the best out of this attacking squad, it would be him.

Argentina employed various formations with ever-changing personnel in their qualifying campaign, but Sampaoli will need to set his eleven in stone as the World Cup draws ever closer. Here are 5 ways in which Argentina can line up in World Cup 2018:

#5 4-4-2

Sampaoli has favored this system in recent times

This formation was used in the recent friendly against Haiti and it worked like a treat as they ran out 4-0 winners. Here, Messi was deployed in a free role, not unlike his position at Barcelona. He ran the show, netting a hat-trick and setting up another.

Giovani Lo Celso could start alongside Javier Mascherano in midfield. However, Ever Banega or Lucas Biglia could also start instead of Lo Celso to provide more solidity.

Di Maria's work rate and creative abilities would cement his position in the left winger spot. The right-wing slot could be up for grabs though. Manuel Lanzini played against Haiti, presumably for his defensive discipline. But the more illustrious Paulo Dybala could slot in there as well.

The trio of Otamendi, Fazio, and Tagliafico appears to be set in stone but winger Eduardo Salvio was chosen instead of specialist Gabriel Mercado, presumably to provide an extra attacking outlet.

#4 4-1-3-2

This all-out attack formation can wreak havoc

This is a ridiculously attacking formation which Sampaoli has used before and with the talent at his disposal, he could do it again. A 4-1-3-2, which looks like a 2-3-3-2 in possession, can free up both Aguero and Higuain without having to smother Messi.

Mascherano can be the defensive midfielder as the two wingers Lanzini and Di Maria push forward. Sampaoli deployed this formation against Singapore in a friendly and it was astonishing to watch.

The two center-backs and Mascherano will be the only defensive players as even the full-backs pile up in attack. Obviously, this will leave them hugely susceptible to counter-attacks. Does this tactic cross the line between boldness and stupidity? Only time will tell.

#3 4-3-3

A stable approach for Sampaoli can be the 4-3-3

The 4-3-3 is a more conservative and solid approach. The midfield trio of Mascherano, Lo Celso, and Banega will allow Argentina to dominate the ball and provide defensive cover. Lo Celso and Banega will have attacking responsibilities as well.

Salvio, who is a winger by trade, can exploit the right flank when Messi habitually drifts inside. Di Maria will line up on the left side and Higuain will play as the lone striker.

Sampaoli will perhaps not find peace with such a conservative approach but it can be a useful tactic to resort to. Especially in the World Cup, where grinding out wins is the prime objective.

#2 3-4-3

A 3-4-3 lineup can unleash Dybala and Messi

Sampaoli can also use a three-man defence to bring the best out of his squad. Marcos Rojo's versatility would mean that he could drop in as a third center-back. Di Maria could adapt to play as a left wing-back who would be given the license to go forward.

The three central defenders would enable Argentina to have more possession and more control. The wing-backs can stretch the field and create space in the central areas for the likes of Dybala and Messi to exploit.

This formation could work especially well against defensive teams as Di Maria, Higuain and Salvio can maintain their high positions which will force the opposition to retreat. Certainly an option worth considering.

#1 3-4-1-2

Aguero and Higuain can be deadly together

This is a slight variation of the previous formation. Higuain could partner Aguero in attack and leave Messi to find the pockets of spaces behind them in a floating role. Messi excels in a free role, roaming around in the final third.

A 3-4-1-2 lineup would provide a direct approach, having two men to aim at in the box. It could effectively pit the two strikers and the two wing-backs against the opposition back four. Di Maria and Salvio have the ability to track back, which will be vital as this system lacks any wingers.

Higuain and Aguero are world-class forwards but they have not played in tandem often for their country. They could be lethal if given the chance. If not from the first minute, this system can prove to be effective while chasing a goal.