Pairs & Combinations FM2015 - UPDATED

Currently using an attacking 4-2-2-1-1 formation with 2xDMC. One role which is a regista (my favourite role) the other being a DM(D) my other midfielder is in the AMC position as an AP(A). Can anyone see any problems with these roles or other any alternatives with might be better?

General gist is that you look to build fairly logical systems. Although you have a CWB & Winger on the same side in your 4-2-3-1 but an IF and FB on the same on the other flank - both are things to avoid. Would look to swap them over. An AF can be very effective in a 4-2-3-1 pulling across the line, opening up space. Otherwise, support duties link up much better.

My bad, there was a typo there, the CWB & IF were on the same side, with the FB & Winger on the other.

I made my way through the championship, playing well with the 4-1-2-2-1 for a while. My squad lost their steam during the 2nd half of the season tho, and I struggled with the lone striker formations alot, and some key injuries left my offence less potent. Nevertheless, I managed to secure the 2nd spot - direct promition to the PRL :-)

My very first signing when moving up was ter Stegen - I couldn't believe my luck. He alone raised my hopes of not only staying up, but probably finishing somewhere mid-table. Not only that, I also managed to sign Fletcher back from Sunderland who got relegated, and get a beast CD named Strandberg. And I've signed 5-6 others in a mix of first teamers and future players. I have a young 5-star potential forward from the academy and scored big when I signed a young Italian MC/ML who has developed well.

Back to the 4-4-2 and a deep version

The 4-4-2 has always been one of my favorites, and I'm giving it a go again:

FB(s) - CD(d) - CD(d) - CWB(a)

W(a) - AP(s) - BWM(d) - WM(s)

DLF(s) - AF(a)

A fluid, counter focus tactic, that relies on retaining posession and slowing tempo while also hasseling opponents.

I have a variant with two DMCs (4-4-2 deep) also, which I haven't really relied on yet.

So far it's going ok. I am still trying to figure out, if I got the right pairing up front, or if perhaps the striker that drops deep should be playing on the left side... Thoughts?

Yes the deep striker should probably be on the left to leave space for AP - a BWM instead of a CM(d) may rob you of defensive cover in midfield - watch and observe his positioning.

Yes the deep striker should probably be on the left to leave space for AP - a BWM instead of a CM(d) may rob you of defensive cover in midfield - watch and observe his positioning.

A BWM did leave me a exposed at the back a bit, so I switched to a CM(d) instead, and swapped the forwards around. Doing well so far for a newly promoted team where tactics aren't fluid yet.

A question tho: Do you use individual instructions, if so, how much? I'm worried that too many instructions will compromise the formation too much, much in the way I limit myself to 3-5 team shouts.

I only use stronger/weaker foot instructions for exactly the reasons you have outlined.

Not sure why you wanted to change from a 4-2-3-1/4-2DM-3-1 you still have the players for it. For the record you lack midfield runners (DM & DLP will offer almost none, the AP(A) only some. The CF is dropping deep and the IF(S) won't attack the box, leaving only 1 man getting in behind. Not really enough. Staying on feet with an aggressive press is possible, but risky. I would generally only tight mark in a deeper system, too much risk of being spun and the opponent getting in behind easily.

Llama when playing a 4-2-3-1 deep would a DMC on support offer an extra body in the box. My front 4 players are Inside Forward/Advance Playmaker Support -AML Trequartisa -AMC Winger Attack -AMR and Complete Forward Support. My team instructions is Balance -Counter with the Drop Deeper Shout and More Direct Passing, Be More Disciplined. i only used this set up against the big four and tough home games. Sometimes I dont see enough players getting in the box. could you let me know if I need to make any changes with my set up or team instructions. I also have Wing Back on left side where the DMC -Defend is playing and the DMC -Support is playing on the side of the full back support (right side)

Not quite sure what I am doing wrong. I don't know if i need to change player roles or team instructions

A DM(s) does get forward, provides long range shots and arrives late in opponents area - so not a major goal scoring threat, but a useful linking runner. Playing that kind of direct system on the break tends to need a deep distributor like a RGA or DLP. It's remarkably direct for Arsenal. I have to say I am not a fan of "big game tactics" not all big sides play the same way, you need to play to your sides strengths and opponents weaknesses, whilst negating their strengths and negating your own weaknesses

Hey Llama,

This is my team at the moment:

I am very close to getting the style of play I want, but I am not happy with 2 things:

1. The Wilshere / Ramsey role in the midfield.
   
2. The Cazorla role on the left.
   

Frustratingly, these were the two things I was happiest with the season before when I played this:

Could I use Wilshere in as a DMC set to Regista (S) as my holding role?

I'd also like to set Ramsey in a more attacking role but that's suicide without more defensive cover, which I don't see how I can achieve without losing either a wide player, or my focal point in attack. Suggestions welcome.

What aren't you happy with in particular? It's a very vague statement.

Hey Llama,

This is my team at the moment:

I am very close to getting the style of play I want, but I am not happy with 2 things:

1. The Wilshere / Ramsey role in the midfield.
   
2. The Cazorla role on the left.
   

Frustratingly, these were the two things I was happiest with the season before when I played this:

Could I use Wilshere in as a DMC set to Regista (S) as my holding role?

I'd also like to set Ramsey in a more attacking role but that's suicide without more defensive cover, which I don't see how I can achieve without losing either a wide player, or my focal point in attack. Suggestions welcome.

Hi, I read your thread about this, and took some ideas from it for my Liverpool tactic. I have a slightly different set up, and I play a balanced philosophy, but interestingly using your midfield trio set up, it almost makes your team set up almost like a 4-2-3-1. I'm not to sure how good defensively Wilshere is (I understand that isn't his real purpose in your set up) but a few games when I was losing, needed a goal etc, I lined up with the Regista in the DM position, an APS on the left side center, and a CM (a) on the right. Worked really nicely, would probably be suicide v a decent team and not ideal for a main tactic. I also have a little more cover down the right side as I have my wide man as a WM (s) As an overall tactic if you want to more attacking type roles in center midfield then you would have to sacrifice the regista for a more defensive role, possibly a DLP (d) is the closest thing to a regista you could get away with. I'm not all to sure how Very Fluid works in real time, as I have never used to, but in theory with a good side, players should cover holes when other players step forward ?

I understand the "balance" (both in attack and defence) approach choosing one attack duty in defence, one attack one support in attack, opposite duty to each player in wings etc.

What i dont get is how this works with fluidity.

I like my team to be precise so i either choose Very Fluid or Very Rigid.

So lets say in a deep 4-2-3-1 :

--------------DLFs

--------------SS

WMs-------------------------WMa

----------DMd----DLPs

FBa-------CD-----CD---------FBs

What will be the difference in duties in a Very Fluid and in a Very Rigid fluidity?

(and what in balanced, which is the most suitable fluidity doing what the duties rule says)

What aren't you happy with in particular? It's a very vague statement.

Sorry. I really want two things:

1. More attacking output from Aaron Ramsey
   
2. More involvement in build up play from Wilshere
   

Both Wilshere and Ramsey have developed into excellent players. Combined with Ozil it's probably the best midfield in the country on my game.

I had the midfield working as I wanted in my first season with Wilshere at Regista and Ramsey at MC(A) but I didn't have a striker. Adding a striker added the goals I needed to win the League, but had a negative impact on Wilshere & Ramsey. I'm really looking for the best of both Worlds.. Maybe I need a 12th player..

We are currently very stable. 21 clean sheets in each of the past 2 seasons. What are your thoughts on Jack Wilshere as a Regista and dragging Ozil back into an MC role to provide an extra body in midfield?

Here's what I am thinking:

Hi, I read your thread about this, and took some ideas from it for my Liverpool tactic. I have a slightly different set up, and I play a balanced philosophy, but interestingly using your midfield trio set up, it almost makes your team set up almost like a 4-2-3-1. I'm not to sure how good defensively Wilshere is (I understand that isn't his real purpose in your set up) but a few games when I was losing, needed a goal etc, I lined up with the Regista in the DM position, an APS on the left side center, and a CM (a) on the right. Worked really nicely, would probably be suicide v a decent team and not ideal for a main tactic. I also have a little more cover down the right side as I have my wide man as a WM (s) As an overall tactic if you want to more attacking type roles in center midfield then you would have to sacrifice the regista for a more defensive role, possibly a DLP (d) is the closest thing to a regista you could get away with. I'm not all to sure how Very Fluid works in real time, as I have never used to, but in theory with a good side, players should cover holes when other players step forward ?

That has crossed my mind. Pulling Ozil deeper to MC and playing him as an Advanced Playmaker (Support) would create space for Ramsey to move into and give an extra body in midfield. I should imagine it'd play a bit like the Real Madrid team last year. My concern is playing a midfield without a designated Defensive player.

You're right about the 4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1 shape. I found it created some excellent combination play in the middle but not threatening enough without an out and out striker in attack.

Llama,

I was wondering if you could have a look at my 442 formation to get me moving in the right direction.

I don't have any pi's set up at the moment.

thanks jim

Would you advice paying direct and a high tempo on a counter system?

I understand the "balance" (both in attack and defence) approach choosing one attack duty in defence, one attack one support in attack, opposite duty to each player in wings etc.

What i dont get is how this works with fluidity.

I like my team to be precise so i either choose Very Fluid or Very Rigid.

So lets say in a deep 4-2-3-1 :

--------------DLFs

--------------SS

WMs-------------------------WMa

----------DMd----DLPs

FBa-------CD-----CD---------FBs

What will be the difference in duties in a Very Fluid and in a Very Rigid fluidity?

(and what in balanced, which is the most suitable fluidity doing what the duties rule says)

Not sure quite what you are asking? For fluidity questions I would highly recommend going to THoG's thread - he is excellent with the concept.

Sorry. I really want two things:

1. More attacking output from Aaron Ramsey
   
2. More involvement in build up play from Wilshere
   

Both Wilshere and Ramsey have developed into excellent players. Combined with Ozil it's probably the best midfield in the country on my game.

I had the midfield working as I wanted in my first season with Wilshere at Regista and Ramsey at MC(A) but I didn't have a striker. Adding a striker added the goals I needed to win the League, but had a negative impact on Wilshere & Ramsey. I'm really looking for the best of both Worlds.. Maybe I need a 12th player..

We are currently very stable. 21 clean sheets in each of the past 2 seasons. What are your thoughts on Jack Wilshere as a Regista and dragging Ozil back into an MC role to provide an extra body in midfield?

Here's what I am thinking:

You have a good defensive shape but a lack of truly defensive players - as well as no real proper defensive role or duty in the side.

Llama,

I was wondering if you could have a look at my 442 formation to get me moving in the right direction.

I don't have any pi's set up at the moment.

thanks jim

Your movement is very predictable - I would swap the duties on 1 flank (so Attacking FB and Supporting WM) to create a natural overlap. With your central pair, it depends how you want to play. A DLP(D) & BBM(S) is excellent for a counter attacking side for example.

Would you advice paying direct and a high tempo on a counter system?

The example above helps. A BPD can help distribute directly too, but a LD can launch directly upfield.

Thanks, what if you need to drop the two MC's back?

thanks will give the changes a try.

Playing high tempo and direct with counter really suits a classic counter-style, and having 2 deeper central midfielders as well should help your defensive shape too.

Playing high tempo and direct with counter really suits a classic counter-style, and having 2 deeper central midfielders as well should help your defensive shape too.

Obviously you can't use BBM with deeper midfielders, would you advise anything? Also would you still have one of the central midfielders on a support duty?

The nearest alternative to a BBM in a deeper shape is a DM(S) - he'll get up and support attacks, but return to a deeper position when out of possession.

I always use a sensible duty allocation. You still need movement, even when playing defensively.

The nearest alternative to a BBM in a deeper shape is a DM(S) - he'll get up and support attacks, but return to a deeper position when out of possession.

I always use a sensible duty allocation. You still need movement, even when playing defensively.

OK thank you. i'm struggling with my league 1 side using a 4-2-3-1 system. I have a lot of possession but conceding a lot of goals

OK thank you. i'm struggling with my league 1 side using a 4-2-3-1 system. I have a lot of possession but conceding a lot of goals

You know the drill - what system etc?

You know the drill - what system etc?

I knew you'd ask that, you'd think I'd learn:). If I put in the thread a opened a few weeks ago, will you take a look?

I knew you'd ask that, you'd think I'd learn:). If I put in the thread a opened a few weeks ago, will you take a look?

Can't promise when I will look, but I will get around at somepoint (working my 8th long day out of 9)

Can't promise when I will look, but I will get around at somepoint (working my 8th long day out of 9)

OK thank you

Llama, I'm trying to do something similar to Jose's tactics at Inter. I was just wondering if you think this could work out?

Here's what I'm 'basing' it on, but reversed: http://imgur.com/SjoMbLz

Philosophy: Very Rigid

Strategy: Counter, however I may go to Standard

I have the following TIs:

• Stay On Feet

• Play Narrower

I also have the following PIs:

GK: Take Quick Throws

DR: Dribble Less

DMCR: Get Further Forward

The Idea is to let the CWB bomb forward like Maicon did, allowing the Defensive Midfielder to drop into the space to cover. Also leaving a back '3' with the two CBs and Fullback. The other Defensive Midfielder would get forward to support the attack and try and link the 'gap', as this is a concern on Very Rigid. I also wanted the AMC/ST combo like Sneijder and Milito. I'm fairly convinced at the AP (A) role suits him, being the attacking focal point. However my ST role is what I'm not to sure on, as I feel the CF (S) provides the right movement, however my strikers aren't exactly what you'd call 'Complete Forwards'. Only one of them I feel can do it, the other two are more smaller, technical players.

Llama, I'm trying to do something similar to Jose's tactics at Inter. I was just wondering if you think this could work out?

Here's what I'm 'basing' it on, but reversed: http://imgur.com/SjoMbLz

Philosophy: Very Rigid

Strategy: Counter, however I may go to Standard

I have the following TIs:

• Stay On Feet

• Play Narrower

I also have the following PIs:

GK: Take Quick Throws

DR: Dribble Less

DMCR: Get Further Forward

The Idea is to let the CWB bomb forward like Maicon did, allowing the Defensive Midfielder to drop into the space to cover. Also leaving a back '3' with the two CBs and Fullback. The other Defensive Midfielder would get forward to support the attack and try and link the 'gap', as this is a concern on Very Rigid. I also wanted the AMC/ST combo like Sneijder and Milito. I'm fairly convinced at the AP (A) role suits him, being the attacking focal point. However my ST role is what I'm not to sure on, as I feel the CF (S) provides the right movement, however my strikers aren't exactly what you'd call 'Complete Forwards'. Only one of them I feel can do it, the other two are more smaller, technical players.

Very interesting look at it. I would only particularly note the philosophy as an issue - think that dropping that to a more fluid system will see better behaviour due to lack of specialist roles. Tactically well structured sides, or disciplined sides aren't necessarily rigid philosophies. But I like the interpretation though, looks well thought out and translated.

Very interesting look at it. I would only particularly note the philosophy as an issue - think that dropping that to a more fluid system will see better behaviour due to lack of specialist roles. Tactically well structured sides, or disciplined sides aren't necessarily rigid philosophies. But I like the interpretation though, looks well thought out and translated.

Well for me Sniejder was the soul of the attack, he was massively relied upon in the attacking phase to get Eto'o, Pandev and Milito into good positions. There could be an argue meant that perhaps Cambiasso was a Deep-Lying Playmaker, but the play never went through him, was was just more adventorus. Perhaps adding the 'Pass more Direct' could help?

I really don't think anyone had very much 'creative freedom' in the team bar Sneijder, Maicon and perhaps Milito? I'm not too sure, on how to balanced having a very tight team (Rigid) but also having some bite in attack.

I've started a new save... I'm stumped on the AMC role (again).

This is how I'm set up:

GK - D

RB - FB/A

CB/D

CB/D

LB - WB/S

DLP/D

DLP/S

Right wing W/S

Left wing IF/A

AMC ?

FWD: CF/A

I have the players, in fact I have far too many brilliant AMC players. The problem is I'm trying to work out what works with the set up.

The DLP's are to hold and defend, I don't want them filling up the AMC strata and they have to be there as the first line of defence. For this reason I haven't used a DLF or CF/S because my IF will be cutting in and I have an AMC in the hole.

I'm trying to work out whether to play the AMC as...

AMC/S

AP/S

T/A

AP/A

Or even AMC/A

Because I have an attacking Fwd and an inside forward I'm leaning towards a supporting role for the AMC slot... But would an Attack role do well?

Can anyone summarise the roles there for me? O_o

I know AMC/S contributes in defence, but he doesn't get forward too often.

AP/A surges into the box, might be too attacking, AM/A certainly is...

I'm unsure about the T/A or even Enganche... Any advice?

Could a CWB (A) work behind a Inside Forward (A)? I would hazard a guess that the team would be extremely vulnerable, however I was thinking about making my Defensive Midfielder an Anchorman to cover?

Could a CWB (A) work behind a Inside Forward (A)? I would hazard a guess that the team would be extremely vulnerable, however I was thinking about making my Defensive Midfielder an Anchorman to cover?

Yes, as long as the IF(A) has central space to move into, allowing the CWB to get very high up down the flank.

Yes, as long as the IF(A) has central space to move into, allowing the CWB to get very high up down the flank.

Well he would have an AP (a) to his right & and a CF (s) up top?

The AP(A) may get in his way as he stays fairly central. So you may need to adjust to a Trequartista, or give PI's. Observe and see. A player with the right PPMs can do just fine too.

Guys what do you think? I might add "Use Offside Trapp".

The only PI is "Dribble More" for the IF.

I know in this formation the two central midfielders should be more static, but I think a BBM could work. Any advice would be very welcome

Guys what do you think? I might add "Use Offside Trapp".

The only PI is "Dribble More" for the IF.

I know in this formation the two central midfielders should be more static, but I think a BBM could work. Any advice would be very welcome

A BBM is the most attacking type of role for that position and system that is appropriate. However, look at your split of duties - 4 attack duties in your most advanced players - your full backs are both support duties - a big risk of having an isolated set of halves for the team. Getting either Baines or Coleman overlapping will be useful if you feel your movement is too static, or the space isn't opening up.

The AP(A) may get in his way as he stays fairly central. So you may need to adjust to a Trequartista, or give PI's. Observe and see. A player with the right PPMs can do just fine too.

A Treq gets out of the way then? Is that sideways or just from dropping deeper?

If an AM plays behind a FWD is that a license to allow the forward to play an attacking role or is it still ideal for the 'lone striker' to be on support?

A BBM is the most attacking type of role for that position and system that is appropriate. However, look at your split of duties - 4 attack duties in your most advanced players - your full backs are both support duties - a big risk of having an isolated set of halves for the team. Getting either Baines or Coleman overlapping will be useful if you feel your movement is too static, or the space isn't opening up.

I've been watching all the matches in comprehensive to see in more detail what's happening on the pitch, and until now I'm very happy with all positions, especially the BBM, McCarthy is a beast. The only position that is a litle bit irregular is AMC, especially against teams who seat really deep. Any sugestions? I changed already to AM(S) with PI "Roam From Position". Ross Barkley he's very young, so the irregularaty could be because of that, just like Deulofeu.

Llama, just going back to post #478.

I was using this system:

So far what I've seen has been good. I've added 'Direct Passing' as I'm not interested in possession and I feel sitting back can allow for some space to hit with some 'Direct' passes, trying to turn defence into attack sooner. I'm stuttering on few Shouts however.

• Play Narrower. I understand that this is active when you are in possession and it focuses your play through the middle. It also has your players more compact when you lose the ball. I'm trying to work out whether this is what I want as I do want my AP (A) on the ball as often as possible? Therefore I think I'm going to stick with it.

• Pass Into Space. Again, unsure whether to make this active or not. I guess I should be using this when a team come at me? Leaving space in behind their defence and committed fullbacks?

• Higher Tempo. I swapping between Defensive, Counter and Standard depending on the opponent and situation. I understand that these use generally low Tempo settings; however I'm unsure whether I want this or not. I do want swift transitions, but I don't know whether it's required?

I've also added a few more PIs. I've added Get Further Forward to the CWB to make him more attacking. I've also added Cross Aim Centre to my DL, DR, AML & AMR just so when they do decide to cross it will be put in an area where my lone ST should be. I've made my AP (A) Roam From Position so he doesn't get man marked. I've also asked my CF (S) to Dribble Less as I want him to look to pass and shoot rather than trying to beat players, is this a good idea? Also toying with whether to make my DMRC a DLP to get him more involved?

Finally (), I'm worried I don't have enough penetration into the box. I don't think that the CF (S), AP (A), IF (S) and W (A) will get into the box enough? The Winger (A) does a few times, peeling of the back of the Fullback. I was thing about changing the AMR to a IF (A) and then make my DR a Wingback (S) with 'Dribble Less', to represent the Chivu/Zanetti role?

Sorry for all the Questions, I've tried to work out myself but I can't decide!

A Treq gets out of the way then? Is that sideways or just from dropping deeper?

If an AM plays behind a FWD is that a license to allow the forward to play an attacking role or is it still ideal for the 'lone striker' to be on support?

If the lone forward has an AMC behind then he can play an attacking duty. The Trequartista will drop deeper, move forward, drift wide - his movement is very free. He will basically go wherever the space is.

I've been watching all the matches in comprehensive to see in more detail what's happening on the pitch, and until now I'm very happy with all positions, especially the BBM, McCarthy is a beast. The only position that is a litle bit irregular is AMC, especially against teams who seat really deep. Any sugestions? I changed already to AM(S) with PI "Roam From Position". Ross Barkley he's very young, so the irregularaty could be because of that, just like Deulofeu.

An AM(S) will contribute far less offensively than your Trequartista will. An AM(S) can be quite static, could potentially blunt the effectiveness of the BBM. I would keep Barkley in a creative role.

Llama, just going back to post #478.

I was using this system:

So far what I've seen has been good. I've added 'Direct Passing' as I'm not interested in possession and I feel sitting back can allow for some space to hit with some 'Direct' passes, trying to turn defence into attack sooner. I'm stuttering on few Shouts however.

• Play Narrower. I understand that this is active when you are in possession and it focuses your play through the middle. It also has your players more compact when you lose the ball. I'm trying to work out whether this is what I want as I do want my AP (A) on the ball as often as possible? Therefore I think I'm going to stick with it.

I would avoid it personally if you are keen to play on the break. Your AP(A) will naturally be looked to anyway to pass to, but a counter-attacking side is often effective down the flanks too, you have plenty of central options already.

• Pass Into Space. Again, unsure whether to make this active or not. I guess I should be using this when a team come at me? Leaving space in behind their defence and committed fullbacks?

Yes

• Higher Tempo. I swapping between Defensive, Counter and Standard depending on the opponent and situation. I understand that these use generally low Tempo settings; however I'm unsure whether I want this or not. I do want swift transitions, but I don't know whether it's required?

A sensible idea, can combine a lower mentality but transition quickly.

I've also added a few more PIs. I've added Get Further Forward to the CWB to make him more attacking. I've also added Cross Aim Centre to my DL, DR, AML & AMR just so when they do decide to cross it will be put in an area where my lone ST should be. I've made my AP (A) Roam From Position so he doesn't get man marked. I've also asked my CF (S) to Dribble Less as I want him to look to pass and shoot rather than trying to beat players, is this a good idea? Also toying with whether to make my DMRC a DLP to get him more involved?

All good ideas, the DLP option could be very good. The downside is less late charges into the area, or upfield, but your transitions could be faster. He may take attention and the ball away from your AP(A) though.

Finally (), I'm worried I don't have enough penetration into the box. I don't think that the CF (S), AP (A), IF (S) and W (A) will get into the box enough? The Winger (A) does a few times, peeling of the back of the Fullback. I was thing about changing the AMR to a IF (A) and then make my DR a Wingback (S) with 'Dribble Less', to represent the Chivu/Zanetti role?

Sorry for all the Questions, I've tried to work out myself but I can't decide!

I have a similar set up at Arsenal, and I have kept it as it is under the "ain't broke don't fix it" theory. An IF(A) at AMR may congest the centre, and rob you of a counter attacking outlet.

I would avoid it personally if you are keen to play on the break. Your AP(A) will naturally be looked to anyway to pass to, but a counter-attacking side is often effective down the flanks too, you have plenty of central options already.

Yes

A sensible idea, can combine a lower mentality but transition quickly.

All good ideas, the DLP option could be very good. The downside is less late charges into the area, or upfield, but your transitions could be faster. He may take attention and the ball away from your AP(A) though.

I have a similar set up at Arsenal, and I have kept it as it is under the "ain't broke don't fix it" theory. An IF(A) at AMR may congest the centre, and rob you of a counter attacking outlet.

Llama as usual you've been great, going to put them into practice!

In terms of having a more penetration into the box; I've been considering swapping the duties around of my AMC/ST combo. Having an AP (S) behind a CF (A). Possibly a bit more presence in the box

An AM(S) will contribute far less offensively than your Trequartista will. An AM(S) can be quite static, could potentially blunt the effectiveness of the BBM. I would keep Barkley in a creative role.

Thanks llama3. Until now things are working good. Middle of November, 3rd in the league, 1 point behind MU, who's first. I struggle a litle play away from home, have to improve in that part. At home, it's easy, teams just stay deep, if I can't break them, around 60 minute I start to invite them to into my own half and until now it's working.

Given all the teams that have done impressively with 3 CB formations at the world cup, I decided to give it a go and make one of my own.

Here's where I'm at:

Now I know that the way I have my midfield set up is a bit strange. And to be honest, this set up probably makes more sense:

But for whatever reason I prefer the first one. I'm weird I know

So any suggestions?

I posted this in another thread but it got ignored so I guess I'll leave it here. Mind giving me your opinion llama?

Llama, just started with Arsenal, playing a 4-2-3-1 formation. Playing good attacking football in the pre season, but my opponents get to many CCS. Do you have any suggestion ? I have no PI on this tactic.

GK (D)

FB (S) - CD (D) - CD (D) - WB (A)

BBM (S) - DLP (D)

W (A) - AP (S) - IF (S)

AF (A)

Team Instructions: Shortert passing, pass in to space, work ball in to box, play out of defense, push higher up and use offside trap.

Also going to change the DLP to CM (D), because I'm on the verge of signing Lars Bender.

I posted this in another thread but it got ignored so I guess I'll leave it here. Mind giving me your opinion llama?

Prefer the 2nd system - better spread of roles and duties

Llama, just started with Arsenal, playing a 4-2-3-1 formation. Playing good attacking football in the pre season, but my opponents get to many CCS. Do you have any suggestion ? I have no PI on this tactic.

GK (D)

FB (S) - CD (D) - CD (D) - WB (A)

BBM (S) - DLP (D)

W (A) - AP (S) - IF (S)

AF (A)

Team Instructions: Shortert passing, pass in to space, work ball in to box, play out of defense, push higher up and use offside trap.

Also going to change the DLP to CM (D), because I'm on the verge of signing Lars Bender.

So basically you copied my opening post?

Prefer the 2nd system - better spread of roles and duties

I decided to drop the playmaker roles.

GK

CD-x CD-d CD-x

WB-a WB-a

CM-d CM-s

AM-s AM-a

CF-s

Edit: I lied. I've gone with the second one from above.

nvm, set up its own thread

Can anyone help? What can I do if players are failing to reach my WB with a pass? I asked him to sit narrower as he seem far to wide but my AP is already asked to sit narrow he is in front of the WB

What players are struggling? It could be a thousand different reasons, so a bit more details is needed please.

Im currently managing stoke city. I have not much idea what to do.

I want my team to play much air ball, then I sat deep, and playing counter.

on wide player, since I use 4-4-2, I have 2 wide player.

my left winger is etherington, I dont know which one best ,made him winger or wide midfield.since he lack of pace,I put him on wide player isntead, so I could use your second combination of dual wide men.

But I have no idea,should I put my left back as wing back,or full backs?

my right winger is pennant or arnautovic (if arnautovic,then he is at AMR position,does this would mean something?) so my right back would be full back-support duty to give cover in the back

then,should I ask my team to play wider or sit narrower? I read somewhere playing wider could give enemy much space to attack us.but play narrow, would my strikers receive enough crosses?

and about attackers,still not clear.which one should i use, AMC FC combination, or both as FC? all sems good combination,since I have crocuh as target man, then the creator could be ireland,as amc ,or walters, as FC ..

what is engeanche?I didnt clear for it..

help me please.thanks so much