NEWSFEED: Why Is Matthias Jaissle Sticking With 4-2-3-1 at Newcastle United?

Newcastle United supporters are increasingly questioning Matthias Jaissle's continued use of the 4-2-3-1 formation as disappointing performances and results put the German manager under pressure. But why does he appear reluctant to change?

Following Newcastle's latest 1-0 home defeat to Everton, the debate over Jaissle's tactics has intensified, with some supporters calling for a switch to a 4-3-3 or a 3-5-2 formation.

Why Does Jaissle Prefer 4-2-3-1?

The 4-2-3-1 system provides two holding midfielders to protect the defence, three attacking players behind a central striker and opportunities for full-backs to support attacks.

It also suits Jaissle's preferred high-pressing approach, with players expected to win possession quickly and move the ball forward at pace.

Importantly, it is a system he used successfully at former club Al-Ahli, although he has previously demonstrated a willingness to change formations during matches.

Is the Formation Newcastle's Biggest Problem?

Against Everton, Newcastle managed 17 shots but only two on target, highlighting the team's continuing difficulties in creating clear scoring opportunities.

After the match, Jaissle expressed frustration that his players had abandoned their planned approach, playing too many long balls rather than following the attacking patterns practised in training.

That suggests the manager believes the problem is not necessarily the formation itself, but how his players are implementing his instructions.

However, there is another argument.

If Newcastle's players are struggling to make the system work, shouldn't the manager adapt his tactics to suit the players available?

Could Newcastle Switch to 3-5-2?

A 3-5-2 formation would provide an additional central defender, potentially allow wing-backs to attack more freely and give Newcastle two central strikers.

Alternatively, a 4-3-3 could strengthen the midfield and provide a different balance between defence and attack.

Neither formation guarantees better results, and both would introduce different tactical challenges.

For now, Jaissle appears committed to the principles behind his 4-2-3-1 approach. But with results failing to meet expectations, the question is whether he will adapt his system before the pressure on his position becomes even greater.

Is it the formation that is the problem or the players who are selected to play in it?

We discussed this exact issue on NUFCBlog here Newcastle Must Show Fighting Spirit at Crystal Palace | NUFCBlog and more recently here Newcastle's £550M Transfer Mess – Who Is to Blame? | NUFCBlog where fans voiced their opinions on whether recent signings are the problem, not the formation.