Get the upper hand in FUT with the best FIFA 23 squad formations

FIFA 23’s most popular mode FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) sees you face off against other players on a global scale.

While it’s possible to gain the upper hand by getting lucky with the players pulled from your FUT packs, there are other methods to gain the advantage.

An often underestimated factor that can decide whether the match is lost or won is your squad’s formation.

With more than 30 different styles of formation to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one to pick.

Here are our top five FIFA 23 squad formations you should use to get the best out of every match.

Best for new players

The 4-3-3 formation gives a good balance with four defenders, three midfielders, and three attackers.

This gives you flexibility, whether you are playing offensively or defensively.

There is also flexibility around the midfield allowing for a mix of defensive midfielders, central midfielders, and attacking midfielders.

For newcomers this is a great way to figure out how the FUT meta plays compared to the game’s other modes.

Best for offensive players

Those who use the 3-4-3 formation are a lot more aggressive in their playstyle.

This offers two slots for both left and right midfielders, with three backs to try and hold the fort.

Your players will need good pace to pull this formation off, in particular from your defensive side.

Wingers should also have good speed at their disposal, to help out with defence if necessary.

If you think attack is the best form of defence then this formation is the one for you.

Best for balanced players

The 4-2-2-2 formation is one where the magic truly happens at the centre of the pitch.

Fast attacking midfielders are the key to success here if you want to still play strong flanking maneuvers.

However, this technique burns up stamina that you also desperately need for counterattacks.

Four defenders and two defensive midfielders provide a strong anchor which copes well with opposing attacks.

If you often have problems defensively, this is a great option to boost your team without swapping players.

Best for fast teams

If you have a number of quality attacking midfielders, then the 4-2-3-1 formation is certainly one to consider.

It has the defensive strength of the last formation, but builds on this with more offensive players for better scoring opportunities.

Smart passing will help you get the best of this formation, but with a great sense for the right timing and space, this is a strong formation.

Best for defensive play

Five defensive players may sound like overkill, but the 5-2-2-1 formation gives a range of interesting possibilities.

The introduction of lengthy players allows some side defenders to be useful in the midfield too, without compromising on defence.

Defence is usually the part of FUT most players struggle with, so this large defensive chain can be a great solution.

With the new system, you won’t compromise your offensive by playing a strong defence.

Written by Georgina Young on behalf of GLHF.