Borussia Dortmund: Raphael Guerreiro admits he prefers the back three formation

Borussia Dortmund star Raphael Guerreiro has revealed that he prefers playing as a wing-back in a back three rather than as a left-back in a back four.

There has been a lot of speculation in recent weeks about the formation Borussia Dortmund head coach Lucien Favre will use for the upcoming season. The switch to a three at the back proved to be very successful last season, but the Swiss tactician has never been shy about his preference to play with four at the back. Now Raphael Guerreiro has had his say on the matter, admitting that he prefers the three chain formation as it allows him to venture forward more freely.

"“The three-chain system is the one that I like best,” Guerreiro said in an interview with Ruhr Nachrichten. “It gives me room to move forward – and I always know that there is someone behind me who has my back. It’s harder to move forward in a back four because you’re unsure whether there will be a gap behind you.”"

And it is easy to see why. Guerreiro was one of Borussia Dortmund’s best performers in the second half of last season. His excellent link-up play and ability to beat defenders down the flank caused all sorts of problems to opposition teams.

The Portuguese international had only two goals and one assist to his name in all competitions before the formation change in late November. But after the switch to a back three, Guerreiro managed to score six goals and provide four assists, becoming one of Borussia Dortmund’s most important players.

In the two pre-season games so far, Lucien Favre has used the four at the back formation, which suggests that we could see the return of the 4-2-3-1/4-3-3 system. Although Guerreiro says that there has been no discussion on the formation that will be used for the upcoming season.

"“So far I don’t know what system we’ll be using next season. There hasn’t been a team meeting where this has been clearly discussed. My preference is clear, but we’re professionals and of course we will end up playing where the coach thinks is right.”"

Guerreiro played at left-back in the first pre-season game against Altach, before playing in midfield in the 11-2 win over Austria Wien. No matter what the formation, the 26 year old remains a crucial part of the Borussia Dortmund squad. And his versatility will help him shine in whatever role he plays in the team.