Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Positive
Mentality:Positive
Formation:4-2-3-1 DM Wide
Team Fluidity:Flexible
In Possession
Slightly More Direct Passing
Play Out Of Defense
Low Crosses
Slightly Higher Tempo
Fairly Wide
In Transition
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
High Press
More Often Prevent Short GK Distribution
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:4-2
Description:Defensive shape with two central midfielders supporting the back four.
Evidence:BWM-D at [3,3] and DLP-S at [3,4] supporting the defence.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:4-3
Description:Four players forming a cohesive unit in attack, with wing-backs providing width.
Evidence:IF-A at [6,1], AP-A at [5,3], and IF-A at [6,5] creating offensive width.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Focus on building from the back, utilizing wing-backs and attacking midfielders to create chances.
Defensive Transition
Quickly regroup into a compact formation to prevent counters.
Main Focus
Maximize offensive width while maintaining a solid central presence.
Key Strengths
Fluid Attack
The combination of two inside forwards and an advanced playmaker creates dynamic movement.
Solid Defensive Structure
The presence of a ball-winning midfielder and a deep-lying playmaker stabilizes the midfield.
Wing Threat
Wing-backs support the attack, stretching opponents and creating crossing opportunities.
Conflicting Directions
Pressing Intent
High pressing may leave gaps in the midfield if not coordinated with the back line.
Direct Passing vs. Fluidity
Slightly more direct passing may contradict the aim of maintaining fluidity in possession.
Counter Pressing Risks
The counter-press tactic might compromise defensive shape if players overcommit.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Pressing Intensity
Consider lowering pressing to maintain defensive structure and avoid being caught on the counter.
Balance Passing Style
Adjust to a more balanced passing style to maintain possession and rhythm.
Utilize Advanced Playmaker
Encourage more involvement from the advanced playmaker to connect midfield and attack.
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