In EA FC 25, players have a wealth of formation options at their disposal. Among these, the 4-4-1-1 formation has emerged as a favorite, often referred to as a META formation. This guide, presented by Team Gullit, details a highly effective 4-4-1-1 setup designed to maximize your players' potential. Along with tactical insights, he provides a tactics code for easy implementation. While assembling the featured players may require a substantial investment of FIFA coins, the payoff is significant, as this formation strikes an excellent balance between attacking and defensive play.
Custom Tactics & Player Roles
Tactical Preset: Custom
Code: FAe5beVMPCV
Formation: 4-4-1-1
Build-Up Style: Balanced
Defensive Approach: Balanced (Line Height: 60)
GK(Buffon): Goalkeeper ++, Defend
CB (van Dijk): Defender +, Defend
CB (Varane): Defender +, Defend
RB (Dalot): Fullback, Balanced
LB (Hernandez): Fullback, Balanced
CM (Valverde): Holding, Defend
CM (De Bruyne): Playmaker ++, Attack
RM (Salah): Winger, Balanced
LM (Vini Jr.): Winger, Balanced
CAM (Cruyff): Shadow Strick ++, Attack
ST (Mbappe): Advanced Forward ++, Attack
When using Balanced Wingers at left mid (LM) and right mid (RM), they tend to stay wide on the pitch. However, once the team approaches the box, they become actively involved in the play. These wingers are always strategically positioned to start a counterattack or to facilitate buildup play between the fullback, center midfielder, and winger. Therefore, the Winger is an ideal choice for this formation.
At the Central Attacking Midfielder (CAM) position, a Shadow Striker set to Attack will also serve as your second striker. When you reach the penalty box, this player will be positioned close to your striker, Mbappé, allowing for easy passing between the two. Additionally, the Shadow Striker contributes to buildup play, aiding in transitioning the ball from the back and helping to advance the attack.
For the ST position, it is advisable to use an Attack-focused Advanced Forward. This option is particularly effective for strikers who possess Advanced Forward + or Advanced Forward ++.
Attacking Dynamics
The 4-4-1-1 formation is well-balanced for both attacking and defensive play. It allows you to easily play attack or counterattack easily with the First Time L1 Triangle method. Additionally, Cruyff and Mbappé can work together effectively to score numerous goals. This formation is versatile, accommodating various play styles, whether you play a slower build-up, a rapid counterattack, or pressing high up the pitch. Furthermore, the Winger player role allows you to cross from your right winger to your left winger.
If you trigger the right players at the right moments, you will have four players pushing forward. Your central midfielder will also be involved because one of the central midfielders has a Playmaker role, meaning he will make runs forward and position himself around the box, ready to receive passes.
Defensive Strengths
This 4-4-1-1 formation is also effective for pressing high up the pitch. It features four attackers who stay positioned just behind the front line, making it difficult for opponents to play through the midfield. With two central midfielders and a central attacking midfielder (CAM), this setup allows for constant pressure on the opponent. When you manually switch these players, they will always be ready to press effectively.
This formation is distinct from the 5-2-1-2 or 4-1-2-2 formations, which tend to defend in a narrower shape, making it hard to apply pressure on the wings. Additionally, when the opponent is building up slowly, you can choose to sit back and defend more conservatively. With eight players positioned behind the ball and by manually tracking your CAM back, you can have ten players in defense, including the goalkeeper. Only your striker remains forward, creating a solid defensive structure that resembles a brick wall.
Conclusion
The 4-4-1-1 formation in EA FC 25 Ultimate Team is versatile and effective for both attacking and defensive play. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can enhance your gameplay and make the most of your squad's potential.
That is the new META 4-4-1-1 formation. If you enjoy this video, please give it a thumbs up and subscribe to Team Gullit's channel.
