Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Custom Control Possession
Mentality:Balanced
Formation:4-2-3-1 Wide
Team Fluidity:Flexible
In Possession
Shorter Passing
Pass Into Space
Low Crosses
Focus Play Down The Left
Focus Play Down The Right
Higher Tempo
Narrow
In Transition
Roll It Out
Distribute To Centre-Backs
Distribute Quickly
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
Higher Defensive Line
Much More Often Prevent Short GK Distribution
Step Up More
Increase Aggression
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:4-2
Description:Defensive structure aims to maintain a compact shape with a high line.
Evidence:Higher Defensive Line with DM-S at [3,3] supporting the back four.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:4-3
Description:Utilizes width from the inside forwards and wing-backs to stretch the opponent's defence.
Evidence:IF-A at [6,2] (Martinelli) and [6,4] (Saka) with AP-A at [5,3] (Ødegaard).
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Combination of width and penetration through the inside forwards with support from wing-backs.
Defensive Transition
Quick transition to counter-press when possession is lost.
Main Focus
Utilizing width and short passing to create goal-scoring opportunities.
Key Strengths
Fluid Attack
The combination of inside forwards and an advanced playmaker creates dynamic attacking options.
Ball-Playing Centre-Backs
Allows for effective build-up play and distribution from the back.
High Press
Counter-pressing enables quick recovery of possession.
Conflicting Directions
High Defensive Line vs. Counter-Attacks
High line may lead to vulnerabilities against quick counter-attacks.
Narrow Width vs. Wing Play
While focusing play down the flanks, the narrow instruction may limit wing-backs' effectiveness.
Short Passing in Counter-Pressing
Short passing during counter-press may slow down transitions.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Defensive Line
Consider lowering the defensive line to mitigate counter-attack risks.
Widen Attack Structure
Encouraging more width could enhance wing-back contributions.
Integrate Midfield Support
Enhancing CM role to support in transitions can facilitate better balance.
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.
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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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