Mainz Football Formation

Starting Lineup

R. Zentner · D. Kohr (A. Hanche-Olsen) · M. Jenz · M. Leitsch · A. Caci · K. Sano · N. Amiri · P. Mwene · A. Sieb (Hong Hyun-Seok) · Lee Jae-Sung · J. Burkardt

Mainz seeks to control games through a high press and verticality using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball back high up the pitch and transition quickly to catch the opposition out of position. The team aims to use the width of the pitch to stretch the defence and create chances in the final third.

R. Zentner stays behind a back three that functions as a cohesive defensive unit. M. Jenz acts as the central defender, commanding the line and ensuring the unit remains compact. To his left, M. Leitsch covers the space while D. Kohr operates as the right centre-back to provide balance. The defensive line often steps up to trigger a press, leaving Zentner to act as a sweeping presence if the opposition hits in behind.

The midfield operates as a central pairing supported by wide players. K. Sano and N. Amiri occupy the central spaces, with N. Amiri often looking to play through the lines to link the build up to the attack. K. Sano works to protect the centre and win the second ball to keep the momentum moving forward. On the flanks, A. Caci and P. Mwene act as wing backs who provide width, pushing high to overlap the attackers and deliver crosses into the box.

In the attacking third, Mainz utilizes three forwards to pin the opposition back. J. Burkardt leads the line as the main striker, working to find the feet of his teammates and hold up the ball for others. A. Sieb and Lee Jae-Sung play as wide attackers, with Lee Jae-Sung often cutting inside to create overloads in the half spaces. The front three press the opposition back line constantly, forcing long balls and creating chances through quick combinations.

A primary advantage of this Mainz formation is the ability to press high in coordinated waves, making it difficult for opponents to play out from the back. The wide overloads created by A. Caci and P. Mwene help to isolate wide players in one on one situations. Additionally, the presence of N. Amiri and K. Sano allows the team to control the tempo and recycle possession when needed.

This 3-4-3 lineup is designed for high intensity and rapid attacking transitions. It is best suited for matches against teams that struggle to play under pressure or leave space behind their defensive line.