Köln Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Brackelmann (Heintz) · Martel (Schmied) · Gazibegović (Thielmann) · Ache (Downs / Nmecha) · Krauß (Diawara / Harchaoui) · Jóhannesson (Huseinbašić) · Zehnter (Paqarada) · Maina (Waldschmidt) · Kaminski (El Mala) · Schwäbe (Lotka / Köbbing) · Hübers (Pauli / Telle)

Köln look to play with a high press and quick transitions using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup is built to squeeze the pitch and win the ball back high up the pitch to catch the opposition out of position. The intent is to use the width of the pitch to stretch the defence and create space in the middle.

Schwäbe acts as the last line of defence in goal. The back three consists of Martel, Hübers, and Brackelmann working as a compact unit. Hübers and Brackelmann cover the wide areas of the back three while Martel sits more central to intercept passes. They often play with a high line to keep the team compact. The defenders are tasked to clear the lines or play short from the back to start the build up.

In the middle of the pitch, Krauß and Jóhannesson operate as a double pivot. Krauß works to shield the defence and recycle possession, while Jóhannesson has the freedom to carry the ball forward. Gazibegović and Zehnter occupy the wide roles, acting as wing backs to provide width. Gazibegović pushes up to overlap the winger while Zehnter tracks back to help the defence. This midfield unit connects the back three to the front three through quick passing.

The attacking line features Ache as the lone striker supported by Kaminski and Maina. Ache acts as a pressing centre forward to force a long ball from the opposition. Kaminski and Maina operate as inverted wingers who cut inside to create central overloads. They look to find the feet of the striker or make runs in behind the defence. This trio works to pin the last defender and create space for the midfielders to arrive late into the box.

Köln can find success through numerical superiority in the wide areas when Gazibegović and Zehnter push high. The team also benefits from the ability to press high in coordinated waves to win it back high up the pitch. This setup allows for quick transitions when Maina or Kaminski find space to run into.

This 3-4-3 formation is designed for a high intensity game that relies on winning the ball in advanced areas. It is best suited for matches where the team can exploit space behind an opposition high line.