Diamond 4v4
The classic 4v4 shape: one at the back, two wide and one up top, giving a passing option in every direction.
Your assistant coach: line your squad up in it, track who played where and see if it gets results.
Strengths
- Natural triangles everywhere
- Width from the two wide players
- Great for teaching support angles
Watch out for
- The back player must stay goal-side
- Wide players drift inside and lose width
Coaching tip
Fun 4s coaches love the diamond because each player always has someone to pass to. Rotate all four positions.
Positions in this shape
- CB: Centre-back. Defends the middle in front of goal, wins headers and tackles, and starts play from the back.
- LM: Left midfielder. Provides width on the left, crosses and tracks back to help the left-back.
- RM: Right midfielder. Provides width on the right, crosses and tracks back to help the right-back.
- ST: Striker. Scores goals, holds the ball up and leads the press from the front.
Opens the free line-up builder with this shape loaded.
Other 4v4 formations
Coaching guides
Free AI coaching help from Gafferbook. Ask anything about coaching your team.
Questions
What age groups play 4v4?
In England (FA Future Fit, 2026/27) 4v4 is played at no standard age group. In Scotland's player pathway it is played at U7, U8. Leagues can vary, so check your league's rules.
Is the Diamond good for 4v4?
The classic 4v4 shape: one at the back, two wide and one up top, giving a passing option in every direction. Fun 4s coaches love the diamond because each player always has someone to pass to. Rotate all four positions.