If you want a straightforward FC 27 setup that controls the ball and doesn't leave your defense exposed, this 4-2-1-3 is for you.
You can load the exact setup using the import code @Zb@gFxHJ9b@. Head to Squad Actions > Team Management > Use Code and paste it (note: menu labels can shift slightly after game updates, so just look for the tactic-code import option). If you prefer manual setup, use these sliders: 4-2-1-3 formation, Balanced Build-Up Style, Balanced Defensive Approach, and Line Height at 50.
Line Height note: This setup sits at 50 for maximum counter safety. The community baseline for this formation is currently 60. If you want more midfield pressure, move the slider up to 55–60, but be prepared to manually drop a CDM when you lose the ball.
Player Roles & Instructions
Here is exactly how the roles are set up to make this system work in-game.
The Front Three
Up top, Adeyemi is your Advanced Forward on Attack. His 95 Pace is perfect for stretching the backline and making runs in behind. Anyomi (LW) and Diani (RW) are on Inside Forward (Balanced). They cut inside to create passing triangles with Cherki, who is your CAM on Playmaker (Balanced). Keep in mind that Adeyemi, Anyomi, Diani, and Cherki are not in their native positions. You will need position-change cards for full chemistry, but the AI movement is worth the investment.
The Double DLP Midfield
This midfield is the core of the tactic. Marchisio and Ramires are both set to Deep-Lying Playmaker on Build-Up. They sit deep, collect passes from the center-backs, and recycle possession. Because they are playmakers, they won't aggressively auto-tackle. To kill counters, you must manually control them to drop back and block passing lanes when you lose the ball.
The Defensive Line
Your fullbacks, Balde and Valencia, are on Fullback (Balanced). They support the midfield but won't bomb forward wildly. Carreras and Lacroix are on Defender (Defend), and García is your Goalkeeper (Defend).
When This Tactic Breaks Down
This isn't unbeatable. If the opponent uses high pressure and cuts off the passing lane to Marchisio, your build-up will stall. Because neither DLP automatically steps up to tackle, opponents will exploit the space at the top of the box with long shots and through balls. You have to manually track those runs.
Fixing the In-Game Warnings
The tactical screen will show three yellow warnings. Here is how to fix them manually without ruining your shape:
| Warning | Why it appears | Manual fix |
|---|---|---|
| Lacking Wide Options | Both wingers cut inside; flanks empty. | Trigger the fullback on the ball side to overlap. |
| Lack of Attacking Options | Only Adeyemi runs in behind. | Switch one IF to Attack temporarily, or push Cherki higher. |
| Light at Defensive Roles | DLPs don't auto-tackle. | Drop one CDM to Holding (Defend) when protecting a lead. |
If you want to keep both DLPs and preserve your passing structure, accept this warning and compensate by switching manually between your CDMs more frequently when out of possession.
How to Play It
To get the most out of this, don't rush. Let the DLPs pull the opponent out of position, then look for Adeyemi's run. Use low-driven shots because your inside forwards naturally end up in the box. This tactic won't give you chaotic, end-to-end goals, but it will grind out consistent wins.
Squad building note: To make this tactic click, Adeyemi’s pace and Cherki’s playmaking are the most important (and often most expensive) pieces to lock in. If you're short on Coins and want to skip the market grind to test this setup in Rivals, you can top up safely through our store for PS, Xbox, and PC.
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