Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Gegenpress
Mentality:Attacking
Formation:4-2-3-1 DM Wide
Team Fluidity:Flexible
In Possession
Shorter Passing
Pass Into Space
Play Out of Defence
Low Crosses
Run At Defence
Play for Set Pieces
Focus Play Down The Left
Slightly Higher Tempo
Narrow
In Transition
Roll It Out
Distribute Quickly
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
Higher Defensive Line
High Press
Much More Often
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Step Up More
Invite Crosses
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:4-2-3-1
Description:Compact shape focusing on preventing central penetration while using full-backs to engage wide threats.
Evidence:Two banks of four with a pair of defensive midfielders providing cover.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:4-2-3-1
Description:Dynamic shape with wide forwards and an attacking midfielder supporting the striker.
Evidence:Wide players stretching the defense allowing central players room to maneuver.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Focus on wide play and utilizing inside forwards to stretch the defense while exploiting spaces through quick passing.
Defensive Transition
Emphasis on quick pressing after losing possession to win back the ball immediately.
Main Focus
Utilizing the width and pace of the inside forwards while maintaining a strong attacking presence through the midfield.
Key Strengths
Width and Depth in Attack
The formation allows for effective wide play through inside forwards and overlapping full-backs.
Pressing and Recovery
The gegenpress philosophy supports high pressing to win back possession quickly.
Creative Midfield Dynamics
With two DM-Supports and an AM-Attack, the midfield can creatively link play while maintaining stability.
Conflicting Directions
Vulnerability to Quick Counters
The high defensive line can be exploited by fast counter-attacks.
Limited Central Control
While focusing on width, the midfield might become overcrowded or bypassed.
Reliance on Individual Brilliance
Heavy reliance on individual skills of inside forwards might lead to predictability.
Tactical Suggestions
Increase Defensive Stability
Consider enhancing the defensive capabilities of the full-backs to mitigate width threats.
Flexible Formation Adjustments
In-game adjustments from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3 can offer more central control.
Utilize Set-Piece Opportunities
Use the height of the team in set-pieces to exert dominance.
Ask Questions About Your Lineup
Related Tactics
More Gegenpress tactics
Guides for this formation
The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 DM 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