How does TEMPO work in FM24? | Tactics Zone | Football Manager 2024

Summary

The video tests how tempo affects play in Football Manager 2024. The game manual describes higher tempo as encouraging quicker decisions, while lower tempo gives players more time to assess their options. The creator compares high- and low-tempo versions of four formations, using otherwise basic instructions, and looks at passing, possession, pitch zones, and match outcomes.

Findings from the tests

• Higher tempo reduced ball share: Teams’ average share fell from about 50% at the lowest tempo to 46.2% at the highest.
• It increased touches relative to control time: High-tempo teams recorded more touches per minute of ball control: 18.0 compared with 16.4.
• It did not increase passing volume: High-tempo teams completed fewer passes per game and slightly fewer per minute of control. Their pass-completion rate was also lower, consistent with quicker decisions leading to more errors.
• Passing direction changed little overall: Low-tempo teams were generally more accurate with forward and sideways passes, while high-tempo teams attempted relatively more short and long passes.
• High-tempo actions tended to occur farther up the pitch: Across the formations, the defensive line was higher, and attacking actions generally took place higher on the field.
• High-tempo systems produced more crosses, dribbles, chances created, and final-third passes. Low-tempo systems generated a higher proportion of assists from through balls.
• Goal timing showed a possible trade-off: Low-tempo teams scored a greater proportion of their goals late, while high-tempo teams conceded a greater proportion late. The video cautions that game state and match flow could explain some of this pattern.

Overall, the simulations suggested that high tempo was more effective at producing attacking output. However, simply setting tempo high would not guarantee a win.

Tactical examples and tips

• Against West Ham with high tempo: The creator targeted transitions against West Ham’s 3-1-6 shape, increased tempo, used Pass Into Space, Run At Defence, and Counter, and changed a player into a winger. The aim was to win the ball, advance quickly, and attack before the opposition could reorganize.
• Against West Ham with low tempo: The creator lowered tempo, used Play Out of Defence and Work Ball Into Box, and changed Douglas Luiz to a roaming playmaker. The approach aimed to keep possession, draw defenders toward the ball, and create space for teammates to advance.
• The low-tempo approach secured the win through ball dominance: West Ham had little possession and struggled to leave its own half.

Key takeaway: Match tempo to the tactical plan and game situation. High tempo can support fast transitions and direct attacks, while a carefully designed low-tempo system can control the ball and dictate the match. Changing tempo during a game may also help manage intensity and game state.

Gamers and sources featured

MustermannFM, the Football Manager manual, the creator’s earlier width video, and the Zaragoza series.