In this EA FC 24 tutorial, we will show you the best tactics, instructions, and player picks for the meta 4-4-2 formation to help you get more wins in Ultimate Team!

EA FC 24 Best 4-4-2 Custom Tactics & Player Instructions

4-4-2 is exactly the best formation that you would absolutely love to use as the starter of FC 24 because the game feels slow at this moment and the pace is not that big, it is a possession game. With the 442 formation, you can switch sides with the Precision passing and just create superiority on the other side of the pitch. The 442 formation is very well balanced in FC 24, you've got the two CMS here that will come back on defense and cover any empty space in front of your center backs; you've got the right mid and the left mid that will be able to run on the wing and cut inside with the controlled sprint then do a short pass; and then the finish you've got two Strikers and variation and that is exactly what we are searching from a squad at the beginning of the game. We need a balanced Squad with which we can't defend very well because we're still learning how to defend and a squad that will offer us scenarios, opportunities, and chances in attack. That being said, here we've prepared for you three variations of this 4-4-2 formation, let's jump into it.

FC 24 Balanced 442 Tactics & Instructions

In a balanced 4-4-2, there are four defenders (usually two center-backs and two full-backs), four midfielders (typically two central midfielders and two wide midfielders), and two forwards (a target striker and a supporting striker). This formation allows for both defensive stability and the ability to attack with two strikers and wide options in midfield.

Tactics

• Defensive Style: Balanced

• Width: 45

• Depth: 50

• Chance Creation: Balanced

• Chance Creation: Direct Passing

• Width: 50

• Players in Box: 4-5 Bars

• Corners: 2 Bars

• Free Kicks: 2 Bars

Player Instructions

• CBs: Stay Back While Attacking, Normal Interceptions, Mixed Attack, Stick To Position

• CMs: Stay Back While Attacking, Cover Center, Balanced Crossing Runs, Stick To Position

• RM: Come Back On Defence, Get Into The Box For Cross

• LM: Come Back On Defence, Get Into The Box For Cross

• STs: Balanced Width, Mixed Attack, Basic Defence Support

FC 24 Offensive 442 Tactics & Instructions

If the balanced one doesn't provide you enough opportunities in attack, let's go with this one.  In an offensive 4-4-2, the two forwards play closer together, often forming a striking partnership. The midfielders tend to have more attacking roles, with the wide midfielders pushing forward to provide width and support the attack. The full-backs may also join the attack and overlap the wide midfielders. This formation aims to put pressure on the opposition's defense by maintaining a strong attacking presence while still maintaining some defensive stability with four defenders.

Tactics

• Defensive Style: Balanced

• Width: 50

• Depth: 55

• Build Up Play: Balanced

• Chance Creation: Direct Passing

• Width: 50

• Players In Box: 6 Bars

• Corners: 2 Bars

• Free Kicks: 2 Bars

Player Instructions

• CBs: Stay Back While Attacking, Normal Interceptions, Mixed Attack, Stick To Position

• CMs: Stay Back While Attacking, Cover Center

• RM: Basic Defence Support, Get Into The Box For Cross

• LM: Basic Defence Support, Get Into The Box For Cross

• ST: Balanced Width, Stay Forward

FC 24 Defensive 442 Tactics & Instructions

In a defensive 4-4-2, the two banks of four players are positioned closer to each other, creating a compact defensive shape. The midfielders play a crucial role in this formation, with the central midfielders providing cover for the defense and the wide midfielders aiding in both defensive and offensive duties. The two forwards may engage in more defensive work, pressuring the opposition's defenders and limiting their passing options. The primary objective of a defensive 4-4-2 is to restrict the opposing team's attacking opportunities and maintain a strong defensive structure. However, teams can still transition to attack quickly using counter-attacks or long balls to the forwards.

Tactics

• Defensive Style: Balanced

• Width: 50

• Depth: 40

• Build Up Play: Balanced

• Chance Creation: Balanced

• Width: 45

• Players In Box: 3 Bars

• Corners: 2 Bars

• Free Kicks: 2 Bars

Player Instructions

• CBs: Stay Back While Attacking, Normal Interceptions, Mixed Attack, Stick To Position

• CMs: Stay Back While Attacking, Cover Center

• RM: Come Back On Defence, Balanced Crossing Runs

• LM: Come Back On Defence, Balanced Crossing Runs

• ST: Balanced Width, Come Back On Defence

Best Players for 4-4-2 Formations in FC 24

Here are some general player recommendations for each position of 4-4-2 squad:

• Goalkeeper: Look for a goalkeeper with good overall shot-stopping abilities, reflexes, and handling to ensure solid goalkeeping.

• Defenders: Ideally, center-backs with good defending, heading, and physical attributes are suitable for the central defense positions. Full-backs should have a balance of defensive abilities and attacking contributions.

• Midfielders: Central midfielders with a mix of defensive and passing attributes are important in maintaining control and distribution. Wide midfielders should possess good pace, crossing, and dribbling abilities to provide width and support.

• Forwards: In a 4-4-2, it's common to have one target striker, often tall and strong, who excels in aerial duels and hold-up play. The second forward can be a supporting striker, a quick and agile player who can make runs, provide assists, and score goals.

Remember that these recommendations are subjective and can vary based on individual preferences and available players in the game. It's always a good idea to experiment with different player combinations and find the ones that suit your play style the best.