Find the right
Football Manager tactic
for your save
Structured reviews with win rates, team context, and match data from real saves. Not hype — evidence.
Explore Tactics
Select filters to find your tacticStaff Picks
Vol. 12 · January 2026Guardiola's Ghost
“The rare counter-attack tactic that doesn't sacrifice beauty. Survived the Championship with Wrexham and made every match worth watching.”
Our top pick this month. A counter-attack system that actually plays beautiful football — wing-backs push high in transition and the build-up is patient enough to feel intentional, not desperate. Works at every level we tested.
Bielsa's Vertical Hell
“Pure vertical football that doesn't let the opposition breathe. Your front four become a relentless wave of movement.”
The Sardine Can
“The ultimate siege mentality tactic. Parks the bus with intelligence, then scores from nowhere on the break.”
Managers & Reviews
Known for making underdogs punch above their weight. His counter-attack systems have been downloaded 28k+ times and tested across 1,400+ saves. The go-to creator for lower league managers.
High-press evangelist with a loyal following. His tactics are designed for mid-table teams that want to compete with the big boys.
The most prolific tactic creator in FM history. If there's a meta, Knap has already broken it. His Standard series is the benchmark.
“Four promotions in a row with Woking. This tactic turned my no-name squad into a machine. The wing-backs are absolutely relentless.”
“Works brilliantly against top teams but struggles against low blocks. Best used situationally. The pressing is next level though.”
“Finally a tactic that embraces being the underdog. Sat back, absorbed pressure, and hit them on the break.”
“Sacchi would be proud. The pressing traps are automated, relentless, and genuinely devastating against possession-heavy sides.”