Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Custom Gegenpress
Mentality:Positive
Formation:4-2-3-1 Wide
Team Fluidity:Flexible
In Possession
Slightly More Direct Passing
Pass Into Space
Play Out Of Defence
Extremely High Tempo
Fairly Narrow
In Transition
Take Short Kicks
Distribute To Centre-Backs
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
Force Opposition Outside
Much Higher Defensive Line
Much Higher Line Of Engagement
Much More Often
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Use Offside Trap
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:3-2-4-1
Description:Defensive shape is compact, using three central defenders to cover central areas while wing-backs press high and wide.
Evidence:Shape derived from the placement of three CBs at [2,2], [2,3], [2,4] and wingbacks at [2,1], [2,5].
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:3-3-4
Description:Attacking shape spreads out with wingers providing width, an advanced playmaker centrally, and a progressive striker ahead.
Evidence:Roles of the attacking players indicate a focus on width through [6,2] (Mané) and [6,5] (Salah), with creative play through [5,3] (Firmino).
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Focus on exploiting width through the wingers while using the advanced playmaker to create goal-scoring opportunities in the final third.
Defensive Transition
Quickly counter-press upon losing possession to regain the ball in advanced positions.
Main Focus
Utilizing high tempo and direct passing to unsettle the opposition's defense.
Key Strengths
Width in Attack
Utilizes wingers effectively, stretching the opposition's defense and creating space for central players.
Counter-Pressing
Quick transition to regain possession after losing the ball, disrupting the opponent's buildup.
Defensive Solidity
Three central defenders provide a strong base, reducing vulnerabilities in central areas.
Conflicting Directions
High Defensive Line
May leave gaps for rapid counter-attacks if the opponents bypass the pressing.
Narrow Team Shape
May struggle against wide formations that exploit the flanks.
Direct Play Style
Can be predictable, and may lead to loss of possession if the opponent sits deep.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Width
Consider adjusting team width to provide better access to central areas and varied passing options.
Tactical Variability
Incorporate a Plan B to adapt against different opponents; potentially switching to a 4-3-3 in certain fixtures.
Increase Defensive Resilience
Consider adjusting the defensive line height or engagement level to reduce vulnerability to counter-attacks.
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