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RB Salzburg Football Formation

Creation DateSeptember 2, 2026

Starting Lineup

Krätzig · Schmid · Morgalla · Veratschnig · Kitano · Vertessen · Konaté · Redzic · Vermeeren · Lindstrøm · Zawieschitzky

RB Salzburg focuses on a high press and verticality using a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and hit the opposition in transition before they can get organized. The team looks to squeeze the space in the middle while using the width of the pitch to stretch the defence.

Zawieschitzky acts as the last line of defense in goal. The defensive unit works as a back five with Vermeeren and Morgalla acting as the central defenders. Vermeeren covers the middle while Morgalla defends the space to his right. Schmid occupies the left side of the central trio. Veratschnig and Krätzig function as attacking wing backs who provide width. Veratschnig pushes high to support the right flank, while Krätzig moves up the left to overlap the wide areas. This system allows the back line to sit deep or step up to set the offside trap.

The midfield works as a double pivot to control the center. Lindstrøm and Kitano are responsible for linking the defense to the attack. Lindstrøm acts as a carrier to drive forward with the ball, while Kitano helps to shield the defense and recycle possession. They must work together to intercept passes and ensure the team does not get caught on the break. When the team wins the ball back, these two players look to quickly find the forwards to exploit the gaps.

RB Salzburg uses three attackers across the front to pin the last defender. Konaté plays as a pressing centre-forward to force long balls from the opposition. Redzic and Vertessen operate as wide wingers who stay high to stretch the play. Redzic looks to cut inside to create chances, while Vertessen pulls wide to deliver crosses. This front line is designed to create runs in behind and facilitate quick combinations in the final third.

One major advantage of this formation is the ability to press high in coordinated waves. By having three attackers and two wing backs pushing up, RB Salzburg creates wide overloads that force the opposition to defend deep. Another strength is the compactness when defending a mid-block, as the five defenders and two midfielders can quickly close down passing lanes. This makes it hard for opponents to play through the lines.

This formation creates a relentless attacking presence through heavy pressing and rapid transitions. It is best suited for matches against teams that struggle to play out from the back under pressure.