Formation · Beginner · possession and press
The 4-3-3 at a glance
The 4-3-3 lines up four defenders, three midfielders and three forwards. Dominates midfield with three players and attacks across three wide fronts.
Full guide, role by role: The 4-3-3 Formation Explained: Strengths, Weaknesses, Roles
What the 4-3-3 solves
Dominates midfield with three players and attacks across three wide fronts. Ideal for a high press: the three forwards close the opposition's build-up exits, and the midfield triangle wins the ball back.
Where the 4-3-3 is weak
The wide channels rely entirely on the full-backs overlapping — if one is pinned, the team loses width on that side. The lone holding mid can be isolated against a double pivot.
When teams use the 4-3-3
Teams who want the ball and press high. Requires an intelligent no. 6 and wingers who defend their channels.
Want to see it move? In Gaffer FC you can switch between the 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2, 3-5-2 on an interactive pitch and click each player for their role. See inside the app.