Köln Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Marvin Schwäbe · Jahmai Simpson-Pusey · Rav van den Berg · Cenk Özkacar · Luca Waldschmidt · Eric Martel · Tom Krauß · Kristoffer Lund · Jakub Kaminski · Ragnar Ache · Marius Bülter

A heavy high press and verticality define the 3-4-3 formation utilized by Köln. This lineup aims to win the ball high up the pitch and drive quickly toward the opposition goal. By utilizing three attackers and two central midfielders, the team seeks to overwhelm opponents in the final third through direct play.

Marvin Schwäbe stands between the posts to anchor the defensive unit. In front of him, the back three consists of Cenk Özkacar, Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, and Rav van den Berg. The defenders often sit in a medium block, with the central trio looking to intercept passes and cover space behind the midfield. Cenk Özkacar and Rav van den Berg provide width to the defensive line while Jahmai Simpson-Pusey holds the central position to dominate aerial duels.

The midfield operates with two central players who must cover vast amounts of ground. Eric Martel and Tom Krauß act as a double pivot to protect the back three and break up play. Martel often stays deeper to shield the defense, while Tom Krauß looks to drive forward and connect the defense to the attack. On the flanks, Kristoffer Lund and Jakub Kaminski act as wing backs, providing the necessary width to stretch the opposing defense.

Leading the attack, Ragnar Ache acts as the focal point through his strength and ability to hold up the ball. He is supported by Marius Bülter and Luca Waldschmidt on the wings. Marius Bülter and Luca Waldschmidt often cut inside to create central threats, leaving space for Kristoffer Lund and Jakub Kaminski to overlap. This attacking front line is tasked with pressing the opposing defenders to force mistakes and create quick turnovers.

Köln finds success through several tactical advantages. The wing backs, Kristoffer Lund and Jakub Kaminski, create wide overloads that force opposing full backs into difficult positions. The central combination of Eric Martel and Tom Krauß provides compactness in the middle, making it hard for opponents to play through the center. Additionally, the ability of Ragnar Ache to battle defenders allows the team to transition from defense to attack with great speed.

This 3-4-3 formation relies on high intensity and physical presence to dictate the tempo. It is best suited for matches against teams that struggle with high pressing or leave significant space behind their defensive line.