Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Custom
Mentality:Positive
Formation:4-2-3-1 Wide
Team Fluidity:Very Fluid
In Possession
Shorter Passing
Play Out of Defence
Low Crosses
Work Ball Into Box
Be More Expressive
Higher Tempo
Fairly Narrow
In Transition
Roll It Out
Distribute To Centre-Backs
Distribute To Full-Backs
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
Higher Defensive Line
Mid Block
Much More Often
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Get Stuck In
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:4-2-3-1
Description:A compact shape defensively, with the midfield dropping in to support the defence against attacks.
Evidence:Higher Defensive Line with Mid Block emphasizes maintaining a compact defensive structure.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:4-2-3-1
Description:Utilizes width provided by wing-backs and inside forwards to stretch the opponent's defensive line.
Evidence:Three playmakers and an advanced forward focused on creating space and scoring opportunities.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Focuses on build-up from the back, utilizing width through wing-backs and inside forwards to create scoring opportunities.
Defensive Transition
Transitions to a mid block, quickly regrouping to stifle counter-attacks.
Main Focus
To dominate possession and control the midfield while creating space for the advanced players.
Key Strengths
Possession Retention
The combination of a Roaming Playmaker and Ball-Winning Midfielder allows for fluid ball movement and possession retention.
Attacking Versatility
Variety of attacking roles creates unpredictability in the final third.
Solid Defensive Foundation
Two Ball-Playing Defenders facilitate the transition from defence to attack while maintaining a robust defensive structure.
Conflicting Directions
High Pressing Styles
A mid block may struggle against teams employing high pressing, as it could lead to quick turnovers.
Counter-Attacking Teams
High defensive line and mid block can be vulnerable to quick counter-attacks from agile opponents.
Fluid Midfield Operations
Too many players focused on possession can congest the midfield against teams with a solid defensive structure.
Tactical Suggestions
Consider a Target Forward
Introducing a Target Forward role could help in holding up the ball and bringing others into play, especially against compact defences.
Adjust Defensive Line
Lowering the defensive line can help mitigate risks against faster opposing strikers.
Utilize more width
Encouraging the outside players to stay wide can stretch the opposition and create more space.
Ask Questions About Your Lineup
Related Tactics
Guides for this formation
The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 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