Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Ammich (GER) · Renato G. (PER) · Keita (GER/MLI) · Selmanaj (USA/ALB) · Agrelos (POR) · Kropík (CZE) · Zohouri (FRA/CIV) · Jorge Sousa (POR) · Aygün (TUR) · Pereira (PAR) · Ajdini (GER/ALB)

Borussia Dortmund seeks to play with extreme verticality and high pressing through a 4-2-4 formation. This lineup is built to overwhelm the opposition in the final third and force turnovers high up the pitch. By committing many bodies forward, the team aims to catch opponents out of position during quick transitions.

Ammich stays between the posts to organize the defensive unit. The back four consists of Keita at right back and Agrelos at left back, who both need to track back quickly when possession is lost. In the center, Selmanaj and Renato G. operate as a pair to block crosses and win aerial duels. This back line must step up to keep the distance between the defense and the midfield small.

The midfield functions as a double pivot to provide a layer of protection for the back four. Zohouri and Kropík work to shield the defense and win second balls in the center of the pitch. These two players must be able to intercept passes and immediately look to break the line with direct vertical passes. They act as the bridge that connects the defensive block to the aggressive front line.

In the attacking phase, the team utilizes four players to pressure the opponent. Ajdini and Aygün operate as a strike partnership, with one player looking to hold up the ball while the other makes runs behind the defense. Jorge Sousa and Pereira provide width from the wings, looking to cut inside or deliver crosses into the box. The forwards are expected to press in waves to prevent the opposition from building play from the back.

One major advantage for Borussia Dortmund is the ability to create heavy pressure in the attacking third through their high numbers. The formation allows for wide overloads when Keita or Agrelos push forward to support the wingers. Additionally, the dual presence of Ajdini and Aygün makes it difficult for central defenders to mark both runners, creating space for others to exploit.

This 4-2-4 lineup is a high risk, high reward system centered on aggressive attacking intent. It is best suited for games where the team needs to break down a deep block or hunt for goals against an opponent that struggles with speed in transition.