Emil Forsberg is primarily known as an attacking midfielder, most often utilized by RB Leipzig on the left flank. The Swede, however, played as the team’s most advanced forward in the Bundesliga derby against Bayern Munchen. He was, also, his team’s best player. What’s Forsberg’s best position then?
Forsberg’s tactical history
Emil Forsberg is an experienced and tactically versatile player. He joined RB Leipzig in 2015 from Malmo FF. The Germans were still playing the second division. Still, they were on their way to bigger and better things.
Since then, Forsberg’s role and influence in Leipzig’s setup have continued to grow. Under the reigns of Ralph Hasenhüttl, Ralf Rangnick, and Julian Nagelsmann, Forsberg has been used, primarily, as an attacking midfielder capable of pressing defenders.
His strength and technique also make him ideal in Nagelsmann’s current tactical plan. The manager likes for his team to press consistently. Once possession is won, players will look to make use of quick, vertical passes towards the team’s attackers.
Leipzig’s striker against Bayern Munchen
In this weekend’s vital match against Bayern, Emil Forsberg was deployed as a striker. While he has played on this position before, it’s usually been a move required by necessity.
Forsberg’s best role had been identified by many as a type of playmaking forward. However, against Bayern, in a memorable 3-3 draw, the Swede was used as Leipzig’s most advanced player.
Forsberg scored a goal and managed an assist. He shows great tactical awareness, acting as the lightening rod for Die Roten Bullen’s attacks that, normally, took place on the wings.
The Swedish international also proved great at finding space in between Bayern’s lines. Often this resulted in efficient link up play with Leipzig’s wingers, Christopher Nkunku and Justin Kluivert.
Given Emil Forsberg’s terrific success as a forward in one of the season’s most important matches, it remains to be seen whether Julian Nagelsmann will continue to use him in this position.
