Welcome to the comprehensive guide on the top five formations in FC 26. Choosing the right formation is crucial for success in the game, as it sets the foundation for your tactical approach and gameplay style. In this video, Team Gullit shares with you the strengths, tactics, and ideal player roles for each of these formations. Whether you prefer a defensive setup, a balanced approach, or an all-out attacking style, there’s a formation here for everyone.
5. The 4-2-1-3 Formation
Overview
The 4-2-1-3 is a dynamic and situational formation that excels in counter-attacking scenarios. It allows for quick transitions from defense to attack and is particularly effective for players who enjoy a fast-paced, counter-attacking style of play.
Tactics
• Build-Up Style: Balanced
• Defensive Approach: Extreme
• Player Roles:
• GK (Nick Pope): Goalkeeper+, Defend
• RB (Dalot): Fullback++, Defend
• LB (Carreras): Fullback++, Defend
• CB (Militao): Defender+, Defend
• CB (Bisseck): Defender++, Defend
• CDM (Frankie de Jong): Deep-Lying Playmaker++, Build-Up
• CDM (Dalot): Deep-Lying Playmaker++, Build-Up
• CAM (Gullit): Playmaker++, Balanced
• LW (Lotta Schelin): Inside Forward++, Roaming
• RW (Lamine Yamal): Inside Forward++, Roaming
• ST (Claudia Pina): Advanced Forward, Attack
Strengths
In this tactical setup, the key emphasis lies in utilizing Incisive Passing and Tiki Taka on your central attacking midfielder (CAM) and striker. Their ability to execute precise, first-time through balls is crucial in creating opportunities for your left and right wingers, who should consistently position themselves on the brink of offside but ready to make decisive runs toward the goal. The strategy revolves around exploiting these runs with well-timed through balls, which are fundamental to breaking down defensive lines.
Tip from MmoGah: When seeking a player with an ideal playstyle, having a sufficient amount of FC coins will be beneficial.
4. The 4-2-3-1 Wide Formation
Overview
The 4-2-3-1 Wide is widely recognized for its defensive solidity. If you’re looking to maintain a strong defensive structure while still having options going forward, this formation is a great choice.
Tactics
• Build-Up Style: Balanced
• Defensive Approach: High
• Player Roles:
• GK (Pope): Goalkeeper+, Defend
• RB (Dalot): Fullback++, Balanced
• LB (Carreras): Fullback++, Balanced
• CB (Militao): Defender+, Defend
• CB (Bisseck): Defender++, Defend
• CDM (Frankie de Jong): Deep-Lying Playmaker++, Build-Up
• CDM (Reijnders): Deep-Lying Playmaker++, Build-Up
• CAM (Gullit): Playmaker++, Balanced
• LM (Lotta Schelin): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• RM (Lamine Yamal): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• ST (Claudia Pina): Advanced Forward, Attack
Strengths
Defensively, this formation offers unmatched stability. The two CDMs act as a shield in front of the center backs, minimizing vulnerability to counterattacks. The compact defensive structure makes it difficult for opponents to find space and break through your lines. If you’re someone who prioritizes defense over attack, this is the formation for you.
3. The 4-4-2 Formation
Overview
The classic 4-4-2 remains a fan favorite for its simplicity and effectiveness. Known for its attacking prowess, this formation is ideal for players who want to dominate offensively.
Tactics
• Build-Up Style: Balanced
• Defensive Approach: High
• Player Roles:
• GK (Pope): Goalkeeper+, Defend
• RB (Dalot): Fullback++, Balanced
• LB (Carreras): Fullback++, Balanced
• CB (Militao): Defender+, Defend
• CB (Bisseck): Defender++, Defend
• LCM (Frankie de Jong): Deep-Lying Playmaker++, Build-Up
• RCM (Reijnders): Box-to-Box, Balanced
• LM (Lotta Schelin): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• RM (Lamine Yamal): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• ST (Claudia Pina): Advanced Forward, Attack
• ST (Gullit): Advanced Forward, Attack
Strengths
The 4-4-2 shines in offensive transitions. Once you win back possession, you can quickly play the ball to your strikers and create dangerous opportunities. The quick interplay between midfielders and attackers makes this formation lethal in front of the goal. However, it’s worth noting that the defensive structure may not be as robust as other formations, making it better suited for players who focus on outscoring their opponents.
2. The 4-4-1-1 Formation
Overview
The 4-4-1-1 is one of the most balanced formations in FC 26, offering a mix of defensive stability and offensive versatility. It’s an excellent option for players who want a reliable setup for both phases of play.
Tactics
• Build-Up Style: Balanced
• Defensive Approach: High
• Player Roles:
• GK (Pope): Goalkeeper+, Defend
• RB (Dalot): Fullback++, Balanced
• LB (Carreras): Fullback++, Balanced
• CB (Militao): Defender+, Defend
• CB (Bisseck): Defender++, Defend
• LDM (Frankie de Jong): Deep-Lying Playmaker++, Defend
• RCM (Reijnders): Box-to-Box, Balanced
• LM (Lotta Schelin): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• RM (Lamine Yamal): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• CAM (Gullit): Playmaker++, Balanced
• ST (Claudia Pina): Advanced Forward, Attack
Strengths
The CAM is the heart of this formation, operating between the lines of midfield and defenders. This player acts as a playmaker, creating opportunities for the striker and wingers with precise passes. The balance between attack and defense ensures that you can adapt to different game situations effectively. This formation is an excellent choice if you value versatility and control.
1. The 4-5-1 Formation
Overview
Topping the list is the incredibly versatile and balanced 4-5-1 formation. This setup provides excellent coverage across the pitch, making it highly effective both defensively and offensively.
Tactics
• Build-Up Style: Balanced
• Defensive Approach: High (Line Height: 70)
• Player Roles:
• GK (Pope): Goalkeeper+, Defend
• RB (Dalot): Fullback++, Balanced
• LB (Carreras): Fullback++, Balanced
• CB (Militao): Defender+, Defend
• CB (Bisseck): Defender++, Defend
• CM (Frankie de Jong): Holding, Defend
• CM (Reijnders): Box-to-Box, Balanced
• CM (Gullit): Playmaker+, Attack
• LM (Lotta Schelin): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• RM (Lamine Yamal): Inside Forward++, Balanced
• ST (Claudia Pina): False 9+, Attack
Defensive Strengths
The primary defensive advantage of the 4-5-1 lies in its ability to keep the central areas compact. With five midfielders crowding the middle of the pitch, it becomes challenging for opponents to find passing lanes or penetrate your defensive structure. Your central midfielders can effectively block passing options while your defenders manage the backline.
Offensive Strengths
Offensively, this formation encourages fluidity and quick passing (Tiki Taka playstyle). The False 9 striker drops deeper into midfield to link up play, creating additional passing options and drawing defenders out of position. Triggering runs from wingers or midfielders is key to breaking down defenses. This formation suits players who enjoy building attacks methodically while maintaining solid defensive coverage.
Note that if you are struggling with triggering runs, then the 4-4-2 or 4-4-1-1 formation fits you better.
Conclusion
Each of these formations offers unique strengths tailored to different playstyles in FC 26. Whether you prefer a high-intensity counter-attacking approach or a more balanced strategy, these formations will help elevate your gameplay to new heights:
Experiment with these formations to find the one that best suits your style of play. Please don’t hesitate to leave your thoughts in the comments section below the video! If you enjoyed this guide, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Team Gullit’s channel for more FC 26 tips and strategies.
