Today, we continue our journey through different football formations by looking at the 3-4-1-2 formation, which has gained popularity in recent decades as it’s a variation on various other formations.
How are teams set up in the 3412 formation?
A 3412 is similar to a 352 set-up, with one difference in that the system uses a number ten in place of one of the three central midfielders used in a 352. It is also similar to a 343, but once again, the 343 doesn’t use a number ten. However, generally, 343 features a lone central forward with two wide players or wingers supporting them.
In a 3412, the team will start a game with three central defenders, who can split with the outside centre-backs almost moving into full-back positions while defending. However, when in transition or out of possession, they become a far more compact unit.
The midfield four tends to be set up with two wing-backs, who provide the attacking width and also drop back into defence when the team is out of position. Like any wingerless system, these players are vital to the success of the system.
The two wing-backs have two central midfielders sandwiched in between them. They will either be in a double-pivot of two defensive midfielders or a single-pivot of one defensive midfielder and a more attack-minded midfield partner.
Whether the team has a double or single pivot, the player’s job is the same, which is to protect the back four and fill in any gaps left behind by their teammates being caught in transition. These midfielders have to be intelligent, good on the ball and strong tacklers.
Further forward is the number ten, who is the player that this formation is set up to feed. Without the number ten, the formation would be a 343 or 352.
Any player who operates in the position must have football intelligence, be dynamic and be incredibly creative. They should be the main production line of chances for the team’s forward players while also posing a goal threat of their own.
Then, of course, you have the two central strikers, your team’s chief goal-getters. Many head coaches will favour a little and large combination if they have a front two. This is because one possesses a physical threat, while the other, usually a more dynamic and small forward, will offer the defence a different challenge.
However, often in this set-up, one of the central strikers will come deep to pick up the ball. When he does, the number ten needs to take advantage of the empty space left behind.
When was the formation first developed?
The origins of the formation are hard to find because it’s such an adaptation of other formations. However, some famous head coaches have used the formation with great success.
During the 2013/14 season, the 3412 was just one of the formations that Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers used in their Premier League title-challenging campaign. In attack, the team’s top scorer, Luis Suarez, who scored 31 top-flight goals, was paired with Daniel Sturridge, who also found the net 21 times in the league.
Captain and central midfielder Steven Gerrard enjoyed one of his most prolific campaigns in front of goal, notching 13 goals. Unfortunately, Gerrard slipped up in a big clash against Chelsea that proved decisive in the title race, as the Reds finished second place in the table.
Rodgers also used the formation later in his career during his more successful period at Leicester City.
While at Chelsea, England’s soon-to-be head coach, Thomas Tuchel, used the formation successfully during his time with Chelsea. The Blues went on to win the Champions League in season 2020/21 for only the second time in their history using the formation.
What are the pros and cons of the 3-4-1-2?
One of the biggest pros of using the 3412 is that there is a good balance between attack and defence when used correctly. There are always at least three players in attack, as the number ten and two forwards have very little defensive responsibility. The wing-backs can always get up in support of the attacking teams.
The fact that the wing-backs can get back alongside the centre-backs in order to help out their team defensively is also a pro.
3412 or 343 purely for the fact currie and biler will be able to play higher up the pitch with much less risk. The two formations are also quite easily interchangeable and when JJ inevitably takes two strikers off and puts two wingers on we can go from the 3412 to the 343 https://t.co/w1AGjzIGsW
— PELLEND (@JakeLedders) February 24, 2024
However, the wing-backs can also be a con, as they have to be intelligent, fit, and pacey to be able to get up and down the wing to defend and attack. If they don’t do the job properly, the team could be exposed defensively and concede too many goals.
Is it popular on FM?
The 3412 formation is one that has been used in many editions of Football Manager over the years. However, the 352 and 343 are slightly more popular with FM managers, as they are more standard formations.
There are some 3412 FM24 tactics available, including one called the Ideal 3-4-1-2 by TotalFlipz. I can’t say if the tactic is any good, as we have not yet tested it. According to tactic creator TotalFlipz, the tactic helped him do the double in Belgium.
Looking at the screenshots, the tactic lives up to its name. If we get the chance to test the tactic in the future, I will report back on how well it works.
Have you ever used the 3412 in FM24? If so, let us know which one and what success it brought you
