Analyzing the Efficacy of the 3-4-2-1 Narrow Formation in the Current Meta

I've been studying the data from the last two major updates, and while the 4-2-3-1 remains statistically dominant for defensive solidity, the 3-4-2-1 narrow—as discussed in the recent 'Midfield Overload' video—shows a significantly higher Expected Goal (xG) output per possession chain when implemented by players with high technical ratings (88+). The critical factor seems to be the deployment of the wingbacks: are they truly acting as supplementary attackers, or purely as wide defensive cover? FUTPRISM often emphasizes the former, but the transition defense metrics look worrying. Thoughts on managing the exposed flanks during quick turnovers against meta formations? The shift in possession recovery rates is substantial.