Coach Jorge Sampaoli has been implementing a new 3-4-3 system for Friday’s clash with Brazil, spearheaded by a thrilling attacking trio

Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli looks set to unleash a completely new system on his debut in the dugout on Friday when he leads his side out against Brazil.

The old rivals meet at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the Chevrolet Brasil Global Tour arrives in Australia.

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And former Chile and Sevilla coach Sampaoli has been working on a 3-4-3 approach in training this week, spearheaded by an attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain.

Indications from Melbourne this week are that Nicolas Otamendi, Emanuel Mammana and Gabriel Mercado will make up the back-three. 

Barcelona man Javier Mascherano, who plays in defence for his club but midfield for his country, was set to move into the backline after being named in the squad as a defender, but was forced to withdraw from the squad through injury.

Ever Banega and Lucas Biglia will make up the central midfield duo, while Angel Di Maria and Eduardo Salvio will play wide.

This week Sampaoli has been working heavily on his team’s high-press, intent on introducing the same dynamic and exciting approach that brought him continental success with Universidad de Chile and a Copa America crown with Chile in 2015.

His new system should give freedom for Dybala and Messi to interchange and drift from their positions, while Higuain will remain central as a focal point for the team both when defending and attacking.

Brazil coach Tite has been working all week on how to counter a high-press ahead of what promises to be an enthralling clash at the sell-out MCG.