Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Custom
Mentality:Cautious
Formation:4-2-3-1 (5 AT & 5 DEF)
Team Fluidity:Flexible
In Possession
Play Out of Defence
Run At Defence
Slightly Higher Tempo
In Transition
Distribute Quickly
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
Higher Defensive Line
Mid Block
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Get Stuck In
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:Compact Block
Description:Defensive line remains tight while maintaining a mid block shape to pressure advancing attackers.
Evidence:Higher Defensive Line combined with a Mid Block.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:Fluid Attack
Description:Attacking players interchanging positions to create spaces and chances.
Evidence:Utilizing Play Out of Defence and Run At Defence instructions.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Utilizes width effectively with the Winger and Attacking Midfielder supporting the Forward.
Defensive Transition
Quickly transitions to counter-pressing after loss of possession to regain control.
Main Focus
Maintaining possession while gradually building towards the attack.
Key Strengths
Fluid Attacking Play
The use of multiple attacking roles allows for unpredictable offensive moves.
Defensive Resilience
A strong back four supported by a dual pivot in midfield creates a solid defensive structure.
Counter-Attacking Threat
Ability to transition from defense to attack quickly can catch opponents off guard.
Conflicting Directions
Cautious Mentality vs. High Pressure
Cautious mentality may conflict with the intent to implement a counter-press effectively.
High Defensive Line with Mid Block
Using a higher defensive line may not align well with a mid block defensive strategy.
Inverted Wing-Back Role
IWB role might restrict width in transitions leading to potential width deficiencies.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Mentality
Consider a more balanced mentality to utilize counter-pressing effectively.
Optimize Defensive Setup
Consider shifting to a lower defensive line to complement the mid block strategy.
Enhance Width
Explore using a traditional full-back instead of inverted in the right-back position.
Ask Questions About Your Lineup
Guides for this formation
The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 (5 AT & 5 DEF): roles, instructions, and the trade-offs that decide whether the system holds up.
Player pairings
Midfield Pairs in 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2
Double pivots and flat pairs in 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2: when each pairing works, when it collapses, and the AMC unicorn that rescues both.
Read guide
Playing styles
Gegenpressing: A Full Guide
Klopp-style gegenpressing in FM, including squad profile, line-and-press pairing, sustainable workload, and the antipatterns to avoid.
Read guide