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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. Positive 4-2-3-1 Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Positive 4-2-3-1 Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

    Tactical Style:Positive
    Mentality:Positive
    Formation:4-2-3-1 Wide
    Team Fluidity:Flexible

    In Possession

    Play Out of Defence
    Work Ball Into Box
    Overlap on the Left
    Overlap on the Right
    Run at Defence

    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
    Description:Defensive compactness while maintaining width through the wing-backs.
    Evidence:DM-D at [3,3] provides support to back line, while CD-D at [2,2] and [2,4] maintain structure.

    Team Shape With Ball

    Shape:4-3
    Description:Capable of quick transitions with wing involvement and central attacking threats.
    Evidence:The combination of AP-A and IF-A provides creativity and finish options, supported by overlapping wing-backs.

    Phase Description

    Attacking Play

    Focus on maintaining possession and breaking down defenses through wide play and overlapping runs.

    Defensive Transition

    Quickly shift to prevent counter-attacks, utilizing a counter-pressing strategy.

    Main Focus

    Creating goal-scoring opportunities through fluid attacking movements.

    Key Strengths

    Fluid Attack

    The combination of an Advanced Playmaker and Inside Forward allows for creative plays and breaking through defenses.

    Defensive Stability

    Two solid centre-backs in defense supported by a Defensive Midfielder create a strong defensive unit.

    Width and Overlap

    Using wing-backs provides width and depth, allowing for effective crossing opportunities.

    Conflicting Directions

    High Defensive Line

    While it promotes pressing, it exposes the defense to quick counter-attacks if the ball is lost.

    Aggressive Pressing

    Counter-press might leave the backline exposed if the press is beaten.

    Stretched Midfield

    The distance between the CD and attacking players can create gaps if not managed.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Consider Flat Midfield

    Using a flat midfield in transition can help maintain shape and communication.

    Adjust Defensive Line

    Consider lowering the defensive line to reduce vulnerability against fast counters.

    Enhance Pressing Trigger

    Increasing pressing intensity when losing the ball can disrupt opponent plays more effectively.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

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    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.

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