Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Balanced
Mentality:Positive
Formation:4-2-3-1 Wide
Team Fluidity:Structured
In Possession
Work Ball Into Box
Play Out Of Defence
Focus Play Down The Right
In Transition
Counter
Counter Press
Out of Possession
Higher Defensive Line
Higher Line of Engagement
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:Compact
Description:The team maintains a compact shape, reducing spaces between lines, making it difficult for the opposition.
Evidence:Heavier reliance on the defensive shape as indicated by a higher defensive line and roles assigned.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:Fluid
Description:The wingers stretch the play, with the central attacking midfielder creating spaces for the forward.
Evidence:Wingers adopting a support role allow the advanced playmaker to operate freely in central areas.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Focuses on utilizing width with wingers and an advanced playmaker, supported by a deep-lying playmaker often transitioning to attack.
Defensive Transition
Quick recovery tactics with a counter-press to regain possession when the ball is lost.
Main Focus
Building attacks from the back with a strong support from the midfield due to a double pivot setup.
Key Strengths
Wide Play
Utilizes wingers effectively to stretch the opposition and create space.
Midfield Control
Double pivot offers control in both defensive and attacking phases.
Creative Threat
Advanced playmaker in a central position facilitates chances.
Conflicting Directions
Spacing with Overlapping Full-Backs
Use of overlapping runs may conflict with wingers’ roles, potentially congesting flanks.
Counter-Pressing Limitation
May struggle against teams that break quickly, as high line can leave gaps.
Defensive Vulnerability on Flanks
Full-backs might be isolated if wingers drift infield, leaving space on the wings.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Winger Roles
Consider changing some wingers to Inside Forwards to diversify attacking threats.
Implement a More Flexible Midfield
Adding a roaming playmaker could increase adaptability in midfield.
Incorporate a Higher Press
Consider increasing pressing intensity to regain possession high up the pitch.
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