Bayer Leverkusen Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Hermansen (1) · Leoni (4) · Ridho (5) · Branthwaite (32) · Hartman (2) · J. Justin (12) · Iwobi (27) · Strand Larsen (9) · Marselino (7) · (c) Xhaka (34) · Styles (8)

Bayer Leverkusen plays a brand of vertical football that looks to break lines quickly using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup relies on heavy pressure and rapid transitions to catch opponents out of position. The team aims to control the middle of the pitch while using the width of the wings to stretch the opposition back line.

Hermansen operates between the posts to start the buildup. Behind him, the back three of Leoni, Branthwaite, and Ridho maintain a high line to compress the space in the center. Branthwaite uses his aerial strength and ability to intercept passes to stop direct attacks, while Leoni and Ridho cover the lateral gaps. This defensive unit works to step up and squeeze the play, forcing long balls that they can win in the air.

The midfield operates with two central players and two wide players. Granit Xhaka, the captain, sits in the middle to dictate the tempo with his passing range and ability to shield the defense. He connects the back three to the rest of the team. Beside him, Styles works to drive the ball forward and press opponents in the central zones. Hartman and J. Justin act as wing backs, pushing high to provide width and track back to defend the flanks when the team loses possession.

In the final third, Bayer Leverkusen utilizes three attackers to pin the opposition defense. Strand Larsen acts as the lone striker to hold up the ball and provide a focal point for long passes. Iwobi and Marselino play as wide attackers, cutting inside to create scoring chances or making runs into the box. This attacking unit presses high to win the ball back near the opponent's goal, creating constant pressure.

This formation offers significant advantages in transition. The wide players, Hartman and J. Justin, create wide overloads by overlapping the attackers, which forces opposing full backs into difficult decisions. Additionally, the presence of Xhaka in the center provides a way to maintain control and pass through heavy presses. The combination of a strong central block and wide threats makes the Leverkusen lineup very difficult to mark.

This 3-4-3 formation focuses on high pressing and rapid attacking transitions. It is best suited for games against teams that play with a high defensive line or struggle to handle wide overloads.