Vortex Gaming

· A new and effective 4-5-1 formation playstyle has emerged in FC 26.
· This formation contributed to winning the La Liga FC Pro Championship and was used by pro player Nicolas99.
· This tactic utilizes the combination of deep-lying playmaker, deep defending, and team press, which has become more important after the game's patch.

· LCM, RCM: Set to Deep-Lying Playmaker to ensure stable possession and aid attacking progression.
· Central CM: Takes on a Box-to-Box role, contributing to both offense and defense.
· ST: Choose between False Nine or Advanced Forward.
· LM, RM: Set as Inside Forwards to make runs into the center.
· LB, RB: Set as Full-Back Defend to enhance defensive stability.

· This formation isn't necessarily better than 4-4-1-1, but it's highly effective.
· LCM and RCM stay in high positions without pushing too deep into the box, widening defensive coverage during counter-attacks.
· The 4-1-4-1 formation is also re-emerging as a meta and is effective for holding a lead.
· A defensive depth of 58 is quite defensive, allowing 8-9 players to stay within the box.
· Build-up uses short passes and works well in combination with Run Trigger.

· Defensive Approach: Use a depth of 58 to effectively shut down opponent attacks. This can be considered a somewhat 'hardcore' defensive style.
· Build-up Style: Primarily short passes, but balanced options are also possible. Counter-attacks are not suitable for this formation.
· Midfielder Roles: All three central midfielders can be set to Hold Ball While Attacking, or the CDM can be set to Hold Ball While Attacking, with LCM/RCM on Deep-Lying Playmaker.
· Attacker Roles: False Nine Attack is preferred, and it can be used more effectively once you get used to it.

· If you need a video on how to defend at a depth of 58, please request it in the comments.
· This formation is very effective for holding a lead, but the 4-4-1-1 tactic will be covered in the next video.