Austria – Ralf Rangnick- New pressing machine

Ralf Rangnick is widely recognized for his high-pressing style of play and his innovative impact on German soccer, from the lower divisions to the top tiers. His influence extends to many of today’s top managers, such as Jürgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel, who have adopted similar approaches in their own coaching careers.

Austria’s national football team has undergone a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Rangnick. Known for his tactical acumen and forward-thinking strategies, Rangnick has revitalized Austria's playing style with his innovative approach. This tactical analysis explores the key elements of Austria's gameplay under Rangnick, focusing on the formations, pressing tactics, and player roles that define their current approach.

One of the best offensive strategies in Ralf Rangnick's approach is Austria's defensive transition. As soon as they lose possession, they immediately press the ball, capitalizing on their numerical advantage across the pitch. The closest players to the ball initiate the press, aiming to quickly regain control and maintain pressure on their opponents.

What sets Ralf Rangnick's pressing style apart from others is the unique mentality he instills in his players. Having watched his teams closely for over three years, it’s clear that his primary focus is on developing a mindset centered around winning the ball. Rangnick often emphasizes in interviews that his teams "play football for the ball" highlighting the importance of possession and regaining the ball back.Through structured training sessions, Rangnick instills a deep understanding in his players that success relies on their ability to win back the ball quickly and efficiently. This mentality becomes second nature to the players over time. Unlike many teams that press to force the opposition into making mistakes or bad passes, Rangnick's teams press with the specific aim of stealing the ball. He has emphasized that the final six meters of the press are critical. His players are trained not merely to disrupt the opponent's play but to actively regain possession with aggresion and intensity.

This philosophy is what distinguishes Rangnick’s approach and makes it highly effective. It’s not just about the physical act of pressing but the mental readiness to seize opportunities and get the ball back.