In FIFA 16 , every match starts with selecting the right formation. We will find out the perfect lineup for your team below.
In FIFA 16, you have the option to edit your team lineup before every match. Especially in Ultimate Team and Pro Clubs mode, you must find a formation that works for you and suits your players.
How to choose the formation for your Ultimate Team
If you want to build a team in FUT, it is theoretically advantageous to decide on a formation in advance. Only then can you target players that fit this formation. Changing the lineup afterwards will affect your chemistry. You can find out how chemistry is calculated in FIFA 16.
Unfortunately, there’s no secret recipe for finding your “perfect” lineup in FIFA 16, but you can consider the following tips in your decision:
- What is my play style? Pay attention to your own gameplay and consider how you play in FIFA 16. Do you often attack down the wings? Do you prefer dominant ball possession? Do you rely more on counter-attacks?

- Which formation appeals to me? Before you commit to a formation for your Ultimate Team, you should experiment a bit with different formations. Can you handle a three-man defense? How many forwards do you want to play with? You will quickly find out after a few games whether certain formations appeal to you or not. There will be formations you feel more comfortable with than others.
- Which players do I want to play with? If you have favorite players that must be in your Ultimate Team, you can already choose a formation that fits these players. If you want wingers in your team, you also need a formation that highlights these players.
The best formations in FIFA 16 – sorted by play style
There are a total of 25 formations you can choose from. Amongst players, some favorites have emerged. We list the top 5 formations, sorted by play style.
Formations for an offensive play in FIFA 16
Keep in mind that the most used offensive formation is not necessarily the best one. If you are looking for offensive formations, consider the following:
- 3-4-2-1
- 3-4-1-2
- 3-4-3
- 3-5-2
- 4-3-3 (4)
Formations for a defensive play in FIFA 16
Also, note that the following popular defensive formations do not claim to be the best formations for a defensive play.
Formations for counter-play in FIFA 16
If you like to rely on counter-attacks, you should consider the following formations:
- 5-2-1-2
- 5-2-2-1
- 4-3-3 (2)
- 4-4-2 (2)
- 4-2-3-1 (2)
Formations for ball possession in FIFA 16
FIFA 16 is played differently by each player. If for you, passing and high ball possession values are a priority, take a look at these formations:
- 4-5-1
- 4-5-1 (2)
- 4-1-2-1-2 (2)
- 4-2-2-2
- 4-3-3 (5)
Formations for wing play in FIFA 16
If you have fast dribblers on your team who can come down the wings and deliver dangerous crosses, then these are the formations for you:
- 3-4-3
- 4-4-2
- 4-4-2 (2)
- 4-3-3
- 3-4-1-2
Note: These rankings come from FIFAUTEAM.
Ttime says: If you have found a formation that you feel comfortable with, but that rarely leads to success, remember that you can also influence your lineup in-game. If you concede too many goals, you can set the formation more defensively using the arrow keys. If you have too few chances, adjust the formation to be more offensive. Additionally, you have quick tactics available, such as counter or high pressure. So you have several options to influence your formation and adapt to the game situation.
I personally play in FIFA 16 FUT with the offensive variant of 4-3-3, and in Pro Club usually with a diamond, as the CAM is probably the most important position for my play style. I like to use this role as a focal point and “strategist” who decides whether I will play through the center or shift the game to the outside. Therefore, I usually choose formations that have a CAM as a playmaker. In FIFA 15, I played with a 4-1-2-1-2 (which also has a CAM), but in the current installment of the series, I find 4-3-3 easier to handle.
Which formation do you play with?
Once the formation is set, it needs to be filled with players. In this guide, you will find the players who are now the best players in FIFA 16: FUT after the winter upgrades, sorted by league.




