RB Salzburg Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Kjærgaard · Veratschnig · Terzic · Drexler · Konaté · Vertessen · Kitano · Redzic · Schmid · Gourna-Douath · Schlager

RB Salzburg relies on a high press to dominate matches, using a 2-5-3 formation. This lineup is built to play vertical football, looking to win the ball high up the pitch and strike immediately. The goal is to squeeze the space and force errors in the opponent's half, turning defensive actions into rapid attacks.

Schlager operates as the goalkeeper in this system. The defensive unit consists of a back two with Terzic and Drexler acting as the central defenders. They play a high line, often stepping up to intercept passes and set the offside trap. Both Terzic and Drexler must be able to play out from the back to start attacks, while also being ready to cover the space behind them when the midfield pushes forward.

The midfield is the engine of the Red Bull Salzburg lineup, featuring five players. Schmid and Veratschnig form a double pivot to shield the defence. Kjærgaard and Gourna-Douath operate in the half-spaces to connect the defensive and attacking lines. Kjærgaard often drives forward with the ball to carry it into the final third, while Gourna-Douath works to win the second ball and recycle possession. Kitano plays as an attacking ten behind the striker, finding pockets of space to create chances or arrive late into the box.

In the attacking phase, the team uses three players across the front. Konaté acts as a pressing centre-forward, leading the charge to disrupt the opposition back line. Vertessen and Redzic provide width, either by hugging the touchline or cutting inside to challenge the defenders. This front three works to isolate wide players in one on one situations and creates constant runs in behind. The team attacks in combinations, using the link-up play between the lines to break the opponent's block.

This formation offers several tactical advantages, most notably a massive numerical superiority in midfield. By crowding the central areas, the team can dominate possession and control the tempo of the game. Another strength is the ability to press high in coordinated waves, which puts immense pressure on the opponent's build up. The speed of transition allows the team to hit in behind on the transition before the opposition can get organized.

The 2-5-3 formation is a high intensity system built on aggressive pressing and rapid ball movement. It is best suited for matches against opponents who try to play short from the back and struggle under pressure.