RB Leipzig Football Formation

Starting Lineup

High intensity and verticality define the identity of RB Leipzig. They use a 3-5-2 formation to press high and win the ball in advanced areas. This lineup is built to win it back high up the pitch and hit the opposition on the transition. The team focuses on squeezing the space in the middle to force errors and play through the lines.

GULACSI operates as the goalkeeper in a system that utilizes a high line. The defensive unit features a back three of ORBAN, SIMAKAN, and LUKEBA. ORBAN acts as the central defender to win the header and command the area. SIMAKAN and LUKEBA cover the wide spaces of the back three to step up and intercept the ball. This back three works to hold a compact defensive line when the ball is lost.

The midfield relies on a strong central presence and wide coverage. HAIDARA and SCHLAGER act as the central duo to win the second ball and protect the back three. DANI OLMO plays as the attacking ten to link the lines with his passing range. RAUM and HENRICHS function as the wide players to provide the necessary width. RAUM and HENRICHS push high to overlap and deliver crosses into the box.

Up front, the team uses a two-man partnership with SESKO and OPENDA. They press from the front to force a long ball and prevent the opposition from playing short from the back. SESKO can hold up the ball to allow others to make runs in behind. OPENDA looks to find space in the channels to stretch the defence. The forwards work together to break quickly and exploit the spaces left by the opponent.

A primary advantage for RB Leipzig is the ability to press high in coordinated waves. This creates immediate danger and pins the last defender in high positions. The formation also allows for wide overloads when RAUM and HENRICHS push forward. This movement creates numerical superiority on the flanks and can isolate wide players in one on one situations.

This 3-5-2 formation is designed for heavy pressing and rapid attacking transitions. It is best used to dominate teams that try to build out from the back under pressure.