Liverpool Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Wirtz · Isak · Salah · Gravenberch · Szoboszlai · Mac Allister · Kerkez · Frimpong · van Dijk · Konaté · Alisson

Liverpool plays with a high press and a vertical attacking intent using a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and hit the opposition in transition. The team looks to use width and speed to break lines quickly.

Alisson stays between the posts to command the area and play short from the back. The defensive unit operates in a back five. Frimpong acts as an attacking wing back on the right to provide width, while Kerkez plays the same role on the left. In the middle, van Dijk uses his aerial strength and positioning to lead the line, with Konaté providing cover and physical presence. Gravenberch occupies the central role in the back three to help progress through the thirds. They defend zonally to keep the unit compact and avoid being caught out.

The midfield relies on a double pivot consisting of Mac Allister and Szoboszlai. Mac Allister works to connect the defensive and attacking lines, often dropping to receive the ball and recycle possession. Szoboszlai presses aggressively to win the ball high and drives forward with the ball to create chances. Together, they attempt to squeeze the space in the middle and deny the opponent the ability to play through the lines.

In the final third, Liverpool uses three attackers. Isak acts as a pressing centre-forward to force long balls from the opposition back line. Wirtz and Salah operate as inverted wingers who cut inside to find space in the half-spaces. Salah uses his dribbling and finishing to threaten the goal, while Wirtz looks to play through the lines and find the feet of the striker. This movement creates space for Frimpong and Kerkez to overlap the winger and deliver crosses. They aim to isolate one on one wide situations or hit in behind on the transition.

This formation offers significant wide overloads because the wing backs push so high. When the team wins the ball, they can quickly switch play to exploit the flanks and stretch the defence. The formation also allows for coordinated waves of pressing to win it back high up the pitch and keep the opposition pinned.

The 5-2-3 formation provides a balance of defensive solidity and rapid counter attacks. It is best suited for matches against teams that play with a high line or struggle to manage wide areas.