Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Positive
Mentality:Positive
Formation:4-2-3-1 DP Wide
Team Fluidity:Structured
In Possession
Play Out of Defence
Work Ball Into Box
Shorter Passing
In Transition
Counter-Press
Counter
Out of Possession
Higher Defensive Line
Higher Line of Engagement
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:4-2-3-1
Description:Defensive structure focuses on compactness and prevention of central penetrations.
Evidence:Utilizing 'Higher Defensive Line' and 'Higher Line of Engagement' to maintain pressure on the opponent.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:4-3-3 A
Description:A fluid attacking shape with width from Wingers and overlapping runs from Wing-Backs.
Evidence:Wingers on the flanks supported by attacking Wing-Backs and a central Advanced Playmaker.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Utilizes width through pressing Wingers and overlaps from Wing-Backs, focusing on ball possession and short passing.
Defensive Transition
Quickly regains possession through aggressive pressing and counter-pressing tactics.
Main Focus
Creating goal-scoring opportunities through patient build-up and utilizing width.
Key Strengths
Width in Attack
Utilizing Wingers offers width, stretching the opposition's defence and creating space centrally.
Ball-Playing Defenders
Offers direct transition from defence to attack, allowing the team to bypass the midfield.
Midfield Balance
Combining attacking and defensive roles in midfield provides flexibility and support in various phases.
Conflicting Directions
High Risk with High Line
Higher Defensive Line can leave spaces behind, especially against pacy attacks.
Inflexibility in Midfield
Over-reliance on structured double pivot may become predictable against teams pressing high.
Overlapping Dependence
Heavy reliance on Wing-Backs for width might reduce central options if they are caught out.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Defensive Line
Consider lowering the defensive line to mitigate risks of opposing counters.
Flexible Midfield Roles
Incorporate a more dynamic role or player capable of breaking lines to enhance midfield creativity.
Alternative Wing Strategy
Consider using one inverted Wing-Back to create additional central attacking options.
Ask Questions About Your Lineup
Guides for this formation
The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 DP 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