Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Gregor Kobel · Schlotterbeck · Achraf Hakimi · Felix Nmecha · Julian Brandt · Johan Bakayoko · Jamie Gittens · Serhou Guirassy · Ian Maatsen · Manuel Akanji · Unbekannt

Borussia Dortmund focuses on a high press and quick transitions through a 4-3-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and move it forward with speed to stretch the opposition. The goal is to create chaos in the final third by using aggressive movements and verticality.

Gregor Kobel acts as the last line of defense, often playing a sweeping role to cover the space behind the back line. The defense works in a flat back four where Achraf Hakimi operates as an attacking full back to provide width. Manuel Akanji sits in the right channel to defend zonally and use his strength, while Schlotterbeck provides cover on the left. Ian Maatsen joins the attack to offer more width, allowing the team to push the defensive line high to squeeze the space.

A three-man midfield manages the central areas, acting as the engine for Borussia Dortmund. Felix Nmecha works to connect the defense and attack, while Unbekannt operates in the right channel to help recycle possession. Julian Brandt plays as an attacking ten, finding pockets of space between the lines to create chances. This midfield group works to press in a mid-block and win the second ball to keep the pressure on the opponent.

The attacking unit utilizes three players to pin the last defender and create mismatches. Serhou Guirassy acts as the central striker to hold up the ball and lead the press from the front. On the flanks, Johan Bakayoko and Jamie Gittens act as inverted wingers who cut inside to threaten the goal. These wide players look to isolate one on one situations or make runs in behind when the full backs overlap.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through its ability to press high in coordinated waves. The team can create wide overloads when Hakimi and Maatsen push forward to support the wingers. Additionally, the presence of Brandt in the hole allows for numerical superiority in the attacking half, making it difficult for opponents to track runners.

Borussia Dortmund relies on this aggressive setup to dominate teams that struggle with high intensity. This 4-3-3 is best suited for matches where the opponent plays a high line and can be punished on the transition.