Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Custom
Mentality:Positive
Formation:4-2-3-1 DM Wide
Team Fluidity:Fluid
In Possession
Slightly More Direct Passing
Pass Into Space
Play Out Of Defence
Work Ball Into Box
Slightly Higher Tempo
In Transition
Take Short Kicks
Distribute To Centre-Backs
Distribute To Full-Backs
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
High Press
Much More Often
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:Compact 4-2-3-1
Description:The team maintains a compact shape to limit opponent space and enforce pressing.
Evidence:High Press with 'Much More Often' indicates a proactive defensive strategy.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:Fluid attacking structure
Description:Full-backs advance, inside forwards cut in, and the striker remains central.
Evidence:Utilization of 'Play Out Of Defence' and 'Pass Into Space' to promote attacking fluidity.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Utilizes width through full-backs and inside forwards, aiming for quick transitions.
Defensive Transition
High pressing approach to regain possession quickly, with support from midfield.
Main Focus
Creating goal-scoring opportunities via the central areas and exploiting wide play.
Key Strengths
Attacking Width
Full-backs provide width, allowing inside forwards to exploit central areas.
Defensive Solidity
Two central defenders combined with a ball-winning midfielder provide a solid defensive foundation.
Quick Transitions
Proactive counter-pressing allows the team to regain possession quickly and exploit opponent weaknesses.
Conflicting Directions
Possession-Based Play
While the tactic includes direct passing and slightly higher tempo, it contrasts with a more possession-oriented style.
High Defensive Line
The 'High Press' can be at odds with a compact defensive shape if the team can't retain possession.
Central Focus
Relying too heavily on central attacking can become predictable facing organized defenses.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Midfield Roles
Consider a more defensive option in midfield to provide cover for advancing full-backs.
Fluidity in Attack
Encourage forwards to interchange positions to confuse opposing defenses.
Tactical Flexibility
Incorporate situational changes during games based on the opponent's strengths.
Ask Questions About Your Lineup
Related Tactics
Guides for this formation
The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 DM Wide: 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