This META 352 FM26 Tactic Works For EVERY TEAM!

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OVERVIEW

This 3-5-2 system was built with defensive solidity as the priority, focusing on compact spacing, controlled pressing, and structural discipline without sacrificing attacking threat.

Across testing, the tactic conceded an average of just 0.5 goals per game, demonstrating exceptional defensive consistency over a full competitive season. The system also delivered strong attacking returns when required, culminating in a treble-winning campaign while maintaining control across all competitions.

Rather than relying on individual brilliance, the setup emphasises collective structure and positional responsibility.

Key Features

Compact 3-5-2 defensive shape

Extremely low goals conceded

Strong central protection through midfield structure

Wing-backs providing balance between defence and attack

Designed to scale across different squad qualities

KEY PLAYER PERFORMANCE

The standout aspect of this system was the wing-back and defensive midfield unit.

The wing-backs were crucial in controlling wide areas, providing defensive coverage while still contributing in possession. Meanwhile, the defensive midfielder acted as the anchor of the system, screening the back line and allowing the rest of the midfield to operate aggressively without compromising defensive shape.

This combination was key to maintaining the exceptionally low goals conceded figure.

TACTIC

Testing Methodology

Testing was carried out using a 70/30 split between holiday and manual play. The majority of league fixtures were holidayed for consistency, while cup matches and key league games were played manually.

Set pieces and training were handled in the same way as in my long-term livestream saves, with no testing-specific optimisation.

A rotation of three closely related variants was used throughout the season. These were small tweaks of the base tactic designed to suit different game states and opposition approaches, reflecting realistic long-term save usage rather than reliance on a single static setup.

FINAL NOTES

I’m Josh Daly, a full-time Football Manager content creator, working with the game on a daily basis. Because this is my full-time role, I spend 12–14 hours a day on Football Manager across testing, livestream saves, tactical development, and content production.

I have 40,000+ YouTube subscribers, have worked on the FMScout YouTube channel for over two years, and currently support a community of 7,000+ Patreon members — the largest Patreon page dedicated to Football Manager content. This demonstrates the loyalty and trust people have in my work.

The tactics I share here are built and tested using the same approach I apply to my long-term saves and live content, not one-off simulations.

I’m proud of the community around my work and the level of discussion it creates, and I’m always open to constructive feedback and genuine tactical debate.

If you have any questions or tactical issues, feel free to message me on any of my socials listed above.