Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Kobel (Germany) · Ryerson (Norway) · Anton (Germany) · Schlotterbeck (Germany) · Kadıoğlu (Turkey) · Hjulmand (Danemark) · Brandt (Germany) · Cherki (France) · Adeyemi (Germany) · Kolo Muani (France) · Sabitzer (Austria)

Borussia Dortmund favors a high press and vertical play. The team utilizes a 4-3-3 formation to stretch the pitch and win the ball high up the pitch. This lineup is built to attack quickly through transitions and use the pace of the front three to catch defenders out of position. This style keeps the opposition under constant pressure.

Kobel plays in goal and acts as a shot stopper to protect the line. The defense operates with a high line featuring a flat back four. Anton and Schlotterbeck form the central pairing, where Schlotterbeck acts as a ball playing defender to start attacks. Kadıoğlu plays as an attacking full back to provide width, while Ryerson works to cover the flank and prevent crosses. The unit works to squeeze the space between the lines and maintain a compact shape when the opposition tries to play through them.

A three man midfield controls the center of the pitch. Hjulmand acts as a single pivot to shield the defense and recycle possession. Sabitzer drives forward with the ball to join the attack, while Brandt operates in the half spaces to create chances with his passing range. This midfield trio connects the back line to the forwards, with Hjulmand dropping between the center backs to receive the ball when needed. They work to press in a mid block to win the ball back quickly.

The attack relies on three players to pin the last defender. Kolo Muani leads the line as a pressing centre forward, working to win the second ball and hold up the ball. Adeyemi uses his pace to make runs in behind on the transition, while Cherki plays as an inverted winger to cut inside and find the feet of the striker. The width comes from the wingers spreading wide before making runs into the box, creating situations to deliver early crosses or cut it back.

One major advantage for Borussia Dortmund is the speed of transition once the ball is won. The team uses the quickness of Adeyemi and Cherki to exploit space behind the opposition defense. Another strength is the ability to press in coordinated waves, with the front three and midfield pressing together to force a long ball from the opponent. This creates turnovers in dangerous areas.

This 4-3-3 lineup is a high intensity system built for attacking football. It is best suited for matches against teams that play a high line or struggle to defend deep in transition.