Bayer Leverkusen Football Formation
June 19, 2025
Starting Lineup
12
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Bayer Leverkusen plays a vertical style through a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup focuses on winning the ball back high up the pitch and attacking with pace. The goal is to use the width of the pitch to stretch the defence and create scoring opportunities.
11 stays in goal to command the area. The back line operates as a back three with 6, 7, and 9. 7 acts as the central defender to anchor the unit, while 6 and 9 cover the wider areas to prevent through balls. The wing backs 8 and 10 provide the width. 8 and 10 push high to overlap the winger and support the attack. This allows the back three to hold a compact block when the team does not have the ball.
A double pivot of 1 and 2 sits in front of the defence. 1 acts as a carrier to drive forward with the ball and connect the lines. 2 stays deeper to shield the defence and pick up runners in the midfield. They work together to recycle possession and play through the lines to the attackers. 1 and 2 must be ready to intercept passes and cover the space left by the wing backs during the transition.
The attack features three players across the front. 3 and 5 play as wide wingers who hug the touchline to stretch the defence. 4 operates as a lone striker to lead the press from the front and find the feet of his teammates. The wingers 3 and 5 look to cut inside or deliver early crosses into the box. These movements aim to create runs in behind or allow 4 to attack the near post and far post.
One major advantage for Bayer Leverkusen is the ability to create wide overloads. When 8 and 10 push up, they create numerical superiority against the opposition full backs. The team also has the speed to hit in behind on the transition using 3, 4, and 5. The presence of 6, 7, and 9 ensures the team stays difficult to break down and can defend zonally when needed.
This formation is built to exploit space through quick transitions and wide play. It is best suited for matches against opponents that play a high line and leave space behind the defence.