Alright lads, let's dive into the best post-patch 4-3-3 variation in FC25 – the 4-3-3 Holding, formerly known as the 4-3-3. We're going to break down the tactics, player roles, and some gameplay examples to show you how this formation works. Let's get it!
Tactics Breakdown
First up, the tactics, lads. We're going with Short Passing for the build-up style. I've seen a lot of people using Balanced, which is fine, but I'm also a fan of Counter, especially with the new meta of trying to hit people on the counterattack. However, what I've found with Short Passing is that it really helps against the current 95 depth meta. If you don't lean into that, you'll get left behind. Short Passing automatically brings your players closer together, so when someone is hitting you with that high press, you'll always have a passing option. This is super important for breaking down those teams and finding space.
For the defensive approach, sadly, it's 95 Depth. You can use whatever works for you, but if you watched the E Premier League this weekend, every single pro was using 95 depth. There are a couple of reasons why: it puts insane pressure on your opponent, the offside traps are automatic, and there are no real downsides. The stamina drain? It's not as bad as it sounds, especially if you've got cards with Relentless or Relentless Plus.
Player Roles
Let's get into the roles, lads.
- Goalkeeper: Sweeper Keeper. You can use whatever your keeper has, but I recommend Saves with Feet as a trait or a PlayStyle Plus, especially against those low drivens.
- Center Backs: Defender. You want them staying in the center back area. If you go for Stopper or Ball Playing Defender, they'll step out, which affects their stamina.
- Fullbacks: Defend. We want to make sure they stay home. I used to get very attack-happy, trigger runs on my fullbacks, lose the ball, and get countered. This setup helps stop those wingers from destroying us and allows us to make our midfield more attacking.
- CDMs: Deep Line Playmaker and Build Up. This is an amazing role. They sit deep, which is what you want, but they also push on. You want players who can dribble, get on the ball, and feel comfortable. Avoid clunky players. You want passing play styles on them.
- CAM: Playmaker, Attack. I've dabbled in Roaming and Box-to-Box. If you're trying to hold onto a game late on, Box-to-Box will help because they'll drop between your two CDMs and push a touch further wide, giving you more defensive cover.
- Striker: Advanced Forward, Support. I love the support focus on the striker, especially with wingers on either side. Coupled with 95 depth, you're going to get pressure on the ball. If they don't have Relentless or Relentless Plus, you'll want to sub them out.
- Wingers: Inside Forward, Roam. If you're not getting much joy on the inside, you can swap this out to Winger to create more width if the middle is too crowded.
This is essentially a 4-2-1-3, but you get a little more flexibility out of that center mid.
Gameplay Insights
In gameplay, you're going to see a lot of low drivens. That play style is especially strong.
Pros:
- Two CDMs: Essential in the current meta. You need at least one, or even two if you struggle defensively.
- Center Mid Flexibility: You can make the roles on this player more defensive, like Box-to-Box or Hold, and they won't push on.
- Plays into the Meta: It's full meta, similar to the 4-2-1-3, but with more flexibility in the center mid.
Cons:
- Wingers Don't Defend: You're a little more exposed out wide.
- No Shadow Striker Role: You can't use the Shadow Striker role with the center mid.
If you're struggling against the 95 depth meta, definitely try Short Passing.
Player Selection
Let's talk about the players, lads.
- Center Backs: You need fast, lengthy center backs. You can't get away with controlled or explosive acceleration types.
- Fullbacks: They don't get so tired in this formation, but I replace them to match my opponent's winger subs.
- CDMs: One enforcer who can still dribble (like a Yayoré or a New Hull) and one more technical player (like a Pedri or a Gabi). You want passing play styles on both.
- Center Mid: Your most passing-gifted player. They need a lot of stamina. Have a sub ready.
- Striker: Needs a sub if you're using the support focus.
- Wingers: Swap them out. You'll be surprised how often subs turn games around.
Remember to try and get some passing play styles in there. They're more important than attacking play styles, in my opinion.