MLS 2025: The Most Used Formations and What Makes Them Effective

Formations and tactics are pivotal when approaching a soccer match. A proper coach analyzes his opponent before the match so that he can prepare his players in training and adapt the right formation against their next opponent. There are loads of different formations that a manager can use, such as 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 3-4-2-1 and many more. Each manager selects the best formation for his team to bring the best out of his players and create a winning atmosphere within the squad. Let's find out the most commonly used formations in MLS that help teams achieve success.

Most used formations in MLS

4-3-3 

The 4-3-3 formation is one of the most common formations used in MLS. Having four defenders, three midfielders and three defenders, this formation emphasizes using width to attack from the wings from the wings and allows for high pressing when out of possession. It is particularly effective when out of possession, as the team can press high up the pitch and keep the opponent near it's box to force mistakes and eventually capitalize on them. 

The most recent MLS team to use this formation was LA Galaxy, were they employed it to perfection in the 2024 MLS Cup final, beating NY Red Bulls 2-1. They used their attacking strengths when pushing forward, capitalizing on their wingers and maximizing their offensive presence in the final third.

4-3-3 formation

4-2-3-1

The 4-2-3-1 is another commonly used formation in the league. It consists of four defenders, two defensive midfielders and three attacking midfielders, with the wide players often functioning as wingers. A lone striker leads the attack, making runs while the central attacking midfielder provides through balls. Managers use this formation to maintain balance between defense and attack. 

It offers great defensive stability while allowing for attacking play with numbers. The two holding midfielders playa crucial role, helping dominate the midfield and transition from defense to attack. This formation is mostly used by Columbus Crew, Toronto FC and FC Dallas. Columbus Crew won the MLS Cup in 2023, with the formation proving pivotal in maximizing the strengths of the squad. 

4-2-3-1 formation

3-4-2-1

This formation is commonly used in MLS when the team faces a better opposition. The formation consists of three defenders, four midfielders who play a key role in its effectiveness, two central attacking midfielders and a lone striker. In the back, the three defenders typically have different characteristics, one as a good ball carrier, another as strong physical presence, and the third possessing a mix of both attributes. Wingbacks are crucial, ensuring stability at the back while delivering crosses into the box. The two attacking midfielders should be strong ball carriers, capable of maintaining possession and putting passes to the striker or fellow playmaker to create goal-scoring opportunities.

An MLS team that made good use of this formation is the New York Red Bulls, having recently used it in the 2024 MLS Cup final. Although they lost the final, everyone saw Sandro Schwarz's tactics and and the tactics they were trying to utilize as a team.

England adapting to the 3-4-2-1 formation 

4-4-2

The 4-4-2 formation is one of the most common and effective setups in soccer. In MLS, teams tend to use it as a traditional formation to maintain balance, ensuring defensive stability while enabling quick transitions in attack. The formation consists of four defenders, four midfielders and two attackers. The fullbacks can push forward as attacking options, depending on the manager's style. The midfielders play a pivotal role in winning the ball back and controlling the tempo of the game. The two attackers have to work for each other, with one providing for the other for them to build good chemistry and score more goals.

There is more then one team in MLS that uses this formation. Many MLS teams favor direct play and solid defensive structures, making the 4-4-2 formation a popular choice. Several teams have utilized it, adapting it to suit their tactical needs.

4-4-2 formation

3-5-2

The 3-5-2 is quite similar to the 3-4-2-1 but it has its differences, making position changes pivotal. It consists of three defenders with similar attributes to those in a 3-4-2-1 defenders, a midfield of five players, including wingbacks who provide attacking width from both sides. This formation aims to dominate the midfield and offers flexibility in both defense and attack.

3-5-2 Formation

Teams playing against better oppositions mostly use this because it helps the team defend as a unit, gain better control of the midfield, and counter the opposition faster. These type of tactic always depends on the opponent you're facing, and whether adapting to this formation is ideal.