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

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

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

    Tactical Style:Custom Control
    Mentality:Positive
    Formation:4-2-3-1 Wide
    Team Fluidity:Structured

    In Possession

    Focus play down the flanks
    Play out of defense
    Work ball into box

    In Transition

    Counter-press
    Counter

    Out of Possession

    Higher defensive line
    Use offside trap
    More urgent pressing

    Team Shape Without Ball

    No team shape without ball data available

    Team Shape With Ball

    No team shape with ball data available

    Key Strengths

    Wide Play

    Utilizing the width of the pitch with wingers and wing backs can stretch opponents and create space in the central areas.

    Midfield Control

    The combination of the Advanced Playmaker and Deep-Lying Playmaker allows for effective ball distribution and control in midfield.

    Counter-Attacking Threat

    Quick transitions from defense to attack can capitalize on opponent's disorganization when recovering the ball.

    Flexible Attacking Options

    With players able to interchange positions, the fluidity in attack can keep opponents guessing.

    Conflicting Directions

    Pressing Intensity vs. Defensive Line

    A higher pressing intensity may contradict with a higher defensive line, risking exposure to fast counter-attacks.

    Full-Back Roles

    Balancing the roles of Wing Backs and Complete Wing Backs may lead to conflicting duties in attack and defense.

    Midfield Duties

    Having an Advanced Playmaker and a Deep-Lying Playmaker could lead to overlaps in responsibilities, affecting overall midfield balance.

    Structure vs. Fluidity

    A structured approach may limit the natural fluidity in player movements that can occur within a more flexible tactical setup.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Adjust Defensive Line

    Consider lowering the defensive line to reduce vulnerability to fast-paced counter-attacks, especially with high pressing.

    Consider Player Roles

    Evaluate whether a more defined role for the wing backs would enhance defensive stability and attacking support.

    Increase Midfield Fluidity

    Encourage midfielders to have overlapping responsibilities to strengthen ball movement and positioning.

    Tweak set-piece positions

    Utilizing tall players in attacking set pieces could enhance goal-scoring opportunities.

    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 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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