Explore the effectiveness of the 4-2-3-1 formation in Ligue 1 during the 2025/26 season, with insights into how top teams like AS Monaco and Marseille use it to dominate.
The 4-2-3-1 formation remains a top choice in Ligue 1 due to its perfect balance between defensive stability and attacking creativity. This formation allows teams to maintain a strong defensive structure while enjoying control of possession and a versatile attack. Teams in Ligue 1 are successfully using this formation to break down compact defenses and respond to high-pressing opponents, making it one of the most effective tactical setups in the league.
Several top teams in Ligue 1, such as AS Monaco, Marseille, and Nice, have adopted the 4-2-3-1 formation, using it to their advantage in the 2025/26 season. These teams are showcasing the tactical flexibility and effectiveness of this setup in both offensive and defensive situations. Each team has put its own spin on the formation, emphasizing different aspects of the game, from high pressing to creative ball circulation.
AS Monaco: Aggressive Pressing and Fast Transitions
Under coach Adi Hütter, AS Monaco has fully embraced the 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on an aggressive high-pressing game and quick vertical transitions. Monaco’s strategy involves targeting the ball carrier’s blind side, allowing them to quickly regain possession and transition from defense to attack. Midfielders like Youssouf Fofana play crucial roles in disrupting opposition play and initiating rapid counter-attacks. This high-pressing approach within the 4-2-3-1 formation has made Monaco a formidable team in Ligue 1.
Marseille: Fluid and Asymmetric Movement
Marseille, coached by Roberto De Zerbi, uses the 4-2-3-1 formation with fluidity and asymmetric positioning. De Zerbi’s tactical approach sees the right-back drop into the center to form a back three, which creates numerical superiority in midfield. This approach helps Marseille dominate the middle of the pitch and create wide overloads, breaking down opposition defenses with quick positional rotations and ball circulation. Key midfielders like Adrien Rabiot and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, along with wingers like Mason Greenwood, provide creativity and depth, making Marseille an exciting team to watch.
Nice: Defensive Solidity and Quick Counter-Attacks
Nice, under coach Franck Haise, uses a structured 4-2-3-1 formation that focuses on defensive solidity and rapid counter-attacks. By maintaining a compact shape, Nice makes it difficult for opponents to break through their defense. Once possession is won, they quickly transition and exploit spaces behind the opposition. Khéphren Thuram, a key midfielder for Nice, plays a vital role in breaking up opposition attacks and launching fast counters, making Nice a dangerous team on the break while still maintaining a strong defensive base.
Don’t miss out on the chance to witness top teams like AS Monaco, Marseille, and Nice in action. Book your tickets today and experience how the 4-2-3-1 formation is transforming the league!
