Germany Tactics Check | Spacing and control in Jürgen Klopp’s first three matches

Germany Tactics Check: Spacing and control in Jürgen Klopp's first three matches

The early days of Jürgen Klopp's tenure with the German national team saw a wide range of tactical experiments that left analysts puzzled. Klopp himself admitted that his approach was far from straightforward, and it was evident that the team explored several formations, including 4-3-3, 4-1-2-3, 4-2-3-1, and even a 3-2-5.

Fullbacks were assigned various roles, as were midfielders and wide attackers, who shifted positions and even joined the striker. While this tactical fluidity might suggest that Klopp is still searching for the perfect formation, it could also indicate that his identity as a tactician lies elsewhere.

The first match against the Netherlands showcased a 4-1-2-3 formation, with Adeyemi and Schade assigned to their weaker-foot sides, operating closer to the goal. The fullbacks had the freedom to roam forward, but they were cautious in the first game. The back four pressed high, and the midfield retained an inward focus. The pressing concept was evident, with Germany's compact defense forcing Greece to construct attacks with a three-man front line.

Klopp made a significant change during halftime, substituting Amiri to operate deeper, helping Kimmich close the space the Dutch had exploited. This adjustment resulted in Germany settling into a 4-5-1 formation, becoming less vertically stretched and frequently adopting a 5-4-1 shape without the ball. The equalizer against Greece demonstrated that while Germany's midfield became safer, they simultaneously became less threatening.