The 4-2-1-3 formation in EA FC 24 has been well-received by enthusiasts of the 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 formations. The key different between the 4-2-3-1 and 4-2-1-3 lies in the midfield. While the 4-2-3-1 incorporates both a Right Attacking Mid and a Left Attacking Mid, the 4-2-1-3 substitutes them with a Right Wing and a Left Wing respectively. So if you are interested in this new meta formation, let's dive in.

Custom Tactics

Defensive Tactics: Beginning with the defensive approach, I opt for balance. While press after possession loss can be effective with this formation, I suggest using it only when trailing to avoid vulnerability to counterattacks. Always commence with balance at the start of a match.

Then comes to the Width, I set it at 45, and for Depth, I prefer 65 to maintain a high press, especially with 2 CDMs offering defensive cover. Alternatively, for a more cautious approach or if high pressing isn't your preference, a depth of 60 works well.

Offensive Tactics: For Build Up Play, I stick with balance, coupled with Direct Passing for Chance Creation, which synergizes excellently with a Center Attacking Mid. The attacking Width is set to 35, providing a balance between aggression and control. 10 for the Players In box, I opt for 6 players during Corners and 3 during Free Kicks.

Player Instructions

Now let's turn to the player instructions. Before doing this, don't forget to prepare some EA FC 24 Coins to improve your player abilities.

Starting with the defensive setup, maintain default settings for the Right Center Back, Left Center Back, and Goalkeeper. Leave them unchanged.

Left & Right Back: For the Right Back and Left Back, instruct them to Stay Back While Attacking. Since the formation includes both a Right Wing and a Left Wing, engaging Fullbacks in the attack might diminish their defensive effectiveness, especially in high-level competitions like FUT Champs.

Left CDM: Transitioning to the midfielders, begin with the Left CDM. This position requires a robust center defensive midfielder, adept at both defending and physicality. Their role primarily involves defensive duties such as intercepting, tackling, and thwarting Counter Attacks. Instruct them to Cut Passing Lanes, Stay Back While Attacking, and Cover Center.

Right CDM: Opt for a box-to-box midfielder, capable of contributing to both offense and defense. This player should possess well-rounded attributes and preferably high work rates. Set their instructions to Get forward and Cover Center.

CDM: Onto the Center Attacking Mid, arguably the most critical player in this formation. They serve as the conduit between defense and attack, requiring adept dribbling skills and vision. Tasked with orchestrating the offense, they should Stay Forward and Get Into Box For Crosses, providing support to the Striker during Counter Attacks.

Left & Right Wing: Transitioning to the attacking phase, focus on the instructions for the Right Wing and Left Wing. Configure them to Come Back On Defense, Cut Inside, Get In Behind, and Get Into Box For Crosses. Their role shifts from covering the Wings defensively to playing as forwards during attacks, thanks to their ability to cut inside and support the Striker.

Striker: As for the Striker, prioritize pace and agility, opting for a player with at least 90 pace and a 4-star weak foot. They should be instructed to Get In Behind, Stay Central, and Stay Forward, aiming to exploit defensive vulnerabilities and capitalize on goal-scoring opportunities.