Union Berlin Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Union Berlin relies on a vertical game built around a 3-4-3 formation. Die Eisernen look to win the ball high up the pitch and attack the opposition quickly. This lineup focuses on rapid transitions and heavy pressure to disrupt the rhythm of the opponent. The team aims to play through the thirds with speed instead of slow possession.

Rønnow operates in goal, using his command of the area to organize the defense. The defensive unit functions with a back three composed of Doekhi, Leite, and Querfeld. Doekhi sits centrally to hold the line and win headers, while Leite and Querfeld cover the wider zones to prevent direct runs. Juranovic and Rothe act as wingbacks who drop deep to form a back five when the team sits deep in a mid-block. This allows the defenders to defend zonally and protect the space behind the midfield.

In the center of the pitch, a double pivot of Tousart and Schäfer controls the middle. Schäfer works to shield the defense and cut off the passing lane to the opposition attackers. Tousart is tasked to drive forward with the ball and connect the defensive unit to the attacking players. They work to compress the midfield and ensure they always have cover if one player steps up to press. Their positioning allows the team to recycle possession efficiently and hold a compact shape.

The attacking front line uses three players to stretch the opposition. Volland acts as a pressing centre-forward to press the opposition back line, using his physical presence to hold up the ball and fight for second balls. Skov and Vertessen play as inverted wingers who cut inside to attack the near post or create space in the half-spaces. This movement forces the opposition defenders to pull wide, which allows Juranovic and Rothe to overlap the winger and deliver crosses. The attackers look to find the feet of the striker or hit in behind on the transition.

A primary strength of this Union Berlin formation is the ability to create wide overloads. When Skov or Vertessen cut inside, it creates space for the wingbacks to push high and get to the byline. Additionally, the team can press in waves, with Volland triggering the press from the front and the midfield following closely behind. This coordinated movement makes it difficult for opponents to play out from the back.

This 3-4-3 formation is built for high-intensity, vertical football. It is best suited for games where the opponent leaves space behind their defensive line.