Redefining the 4-4-2 Magnet & Steel

4-4-2 Magnet & Steel

The 4-4-2 is a classic system that has almost become extinct with very few teams and managers using the system in modern football.

However, teams like Athletico and Leicester have used the system to great effect more recently with both teams winning their respective leagues.

The 4-4-2 offers great defensive cover as teams find it difficult to break through two banks of 4.

With the ball, my version of the system is fluid and can take on several shapes such as a 4-2-2-2 with the wide playmakers pushing high and tucking inside to create a hexagon shape.

When the Trequartista drops deep to collect the ball the system can resemble the 4-2-3-1 pulling defenders out of position leaving a gaping hole for the wide playmakers and AF to exploit.

For a more in-depth look at the system check out the video below.