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    Built by someone who had too much extra time on their hands after FM 25 was cancelled

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    3. 4-2-3-1 Narrow (Cautious) Tactic

    4-2-3-1 Narrow (Cautious) Tactic

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-3-1 Narrow tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

    Tactical Style:Custom
    Mentality:Cautious
    Formation:4-2-3-1 Narrow
    Team Fluidity:Flexible

    In Possession

    Shorter Passing
    Pass Into Space
    Work Ball Into Box
    Play for Set Pieces
    More Expressive

    In Transition

    Roll It Out
    Counter

    Out of Possession

    Mid Block
    Prevent Short GK Distribution
    Get Stuck In

    Team Shape Without Ball

    No team shape without ball data available

    Team Shape With Ball

    No team shape with ball data available

    Key Strengths

    Flexibility in Attack

    The tactical setup allows various attacking movements, with players like Dybala and Kvaradona having the freedom to switch positions, creating unpredictability.

    Effective Midfield Control

    The combination of a Half-Back, Mezzala, and Box-to-Box Midfielder ensures strong presence in midfield, helping both in possession and defending.

    Goal Scoring Opportunities

    With an Inside Forward and Inverted Winger, the tactic is well-equipped to take on defenders and exploit spaces in the penalty area.

    Solid Defensive Structure

    The use of a Mid Block and Ball Playing Defenders provides a good balance between aggression and composure in defense.

    Conflicting Directions

    Cautious Mentality vs. Attacking Roles

    The cautious mentality may hinder the effectiveness of attacking roles like the Deep-Lying Forward and Inside Forward who thrive on a more aggressive approach.

    Wing Back Responsibilities

    Both Wing Backs are assigned to attack, which could leave the defense vulnerable on counter-attacks if not managed properly.

    Counter Instructions vs. Possession Strategy

    The counter-approach may conflict with the 'Work Ball Into Box' instruction, as quick transitions could be more effective with direct attacking play.

    Overlapping Play with Inverted Roles

    Inverted Wingers may not benefit from overlapping full-backs effectively, leading to unbalanced attack progression on the wings.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Adjust Mentality

    Consider changing to a more balanced or attacking mentality to better utilize attacking roles and create more goal-scoring opportunities.

    Role Adjustment for Wing Backs

    Change one of the Wing Backs to a support role to maintain defensive solidity while still contributing to the attack.

    Increase Tempo

    Adjusting the tempo to a higher setting could enhance the effectiveness of counter-attacks and help exploit defensive disorganization.

    Enable Player Instructions for Forwards

    Consider individual instructions that enhance the attacking capabilities of forwards, like encouraging more dribbling or shooting from distance.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

    04:10 AM

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    Guides for this formation

    The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 Narrow: 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