4-2-3-1 formation

Two holding midfielders protect the back four, three attackers feed a lone striker.

How it plays

Four defenders, two holding midfielders, a line of three attacking midfielders and one striker. The double pivot shields the defence, while the number 10 links the midfield to the striker. The two wide players attack the flanks and come back to help.

Strengths

Defensive cover: two midfielders sit in front of the back four.
A clear link player behind the striker, the number 10.
Flexible: it turns into a 4-3-3 or a 4-4-2 depending on who presses.

Weaknesses

The lone striker can be isolated if the support arrives late.
It depends on one creative player in the number 10 role.
Wide attackers must track back, which costs energy.

Best for

Squads with a real playmaker and a striker who can hold the ball up and wait for the others.

Coach’s tip

Choose the two holding midfielders as a pair: one who wins the ball and one who passes. Two of the same type leave a hole.

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