The disparity between the two teams was clear at the Red Bull Arena yesterday, but Salzburg coach Pep Lijnders highlighted several reasons for optimism for Sheffield Wednesday as they approach the new season.

The Owls were defeated 4-0 by a team that reached the Champions League last 16 last season, conceding twice in each half. The Austrian side’s pressing and movement overwhelmed a Wednesday squad still early in their pre-season preparations compared to their European counterparts.

Danny Röhl fielded different line-ups in each half, while Red Bull Salzburg maintained their primary line-up for much of the match. Despite the loss, Wednesday showed moments of promise as they attempted to play through the lines, though the hosts largely controlled the game. Salzburg begins competitive play next weekend.

Salzburg boss Lijnders, who recently departed as Jurgen Klopp’s assistant at Liverpool, spoke about how his team anticipated Wednesday’s approach and saw potential for their success in the Championship based on Saturday’s performance.

“When we analyzed them, it was crucial to understand their style,” Lijnders told The Star. “We saw that to play well, we had to respect their strengths, particularly their double six formation and their ability to position a player free behind our striker. Their corner strategies and counter-attacks were also noteworthy. They often kept strikers forward, showing a clear game plan. If they maintain this approach, they won’t be fighting for survival come the last match of the Championship.”

Wednesday narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of last season with a dramatic win at Sunderland, finishing with three consecutive victories. With higher ambitions this season, they face Werder Bremen on Friday to conclude their European training camp before hosting La Liga’s Leganes at Hillsborough for Liam Palmer’s testimonial. Excitement is building for their Championship opener at home against Plymouth Argyle on August 11.