The contemporary football landscape is awash with scrutiny, a phenomenon that has intensified in recent years. The sport is now under the watchful eye of fans and analysts alike, with news dissected across myriad platforms around the clock. Recent events, such as the transfer deadline, have been the subject of extensive live coverage, often filled with speculation and excitement. Amidst this whirlwind of information, the actual matches are inundated with statistics, while player performances are analyzed with a precision reminiscent of Moneyball. Yet, long before the term gained traction in sports analytics, video games had already begun to distill the essence of sports into raw numbers. In 1992, developers Paul and Oliver Collyer introduced their innovative vision of football through the release of a game that would evolve into a cultural phenomenon: Football Manager.
However, the anticipated release of Football Manager 2025 has been abruptly halted. Sports Interactive (SI) cited that “the overarching player experience and interface is not where we need it to be.” Six months later, SI studio head Miles Jacobson elaborated, stating, “If we had released FM25 in the state that it was in, it wouldn’t have been good value for money and it would have damaged us forever.” This decision, he noted, represents the most significant financial choice the company has made to date. While Jacobson’s candidness is appreciated, fans and content creators alike, such as the popular FM figure Clayts, are left yearning for more transparency regarding the specific issues that led to the cancellation.
Squeaky bum time
Looking ahead, FM26 is poised to introduce a new game engine, an updated user interface, and enhanced graphics. Yet, the pre-cancellation FM25 was also touted as the “biggest technical and visual advancement for a generation,” setting the bar high for expectations. Clayts points out that the anticipation surrounding the match engine is palpable, especially given the franchise’s loyal fanbase. Critics have voiced concerns about the aging mechanics of the game, particularly regarding how it simulates on-pitch action and conveys essential information to aspiring managers.
In the wake of FM25’s cancellation, some fans took matters into their own hands, creating mods for FM24’s match engine. These modifications have focused on enhancing ball physics, improving opposition AI decision-making, and refining lighting effects. The results have largely been met with enthusiasm, as notable content creators have stepped in to showcase these innovations, filling the void left by the cancellation.
Tiki Taka
One particularly successful mod has altered player behavior on the field. A viewer from New Zealand recounted a moment where Pau Torres, a center-back, executed a stunning bicycle kick, showcasing the potential for creativity within the game. In SI’s recent Matchday First Look for FM26, similar moments were highlighted, such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s impressive attempt that was ultimately thwarted by a goalkeeper. These instances underscore the importance of players making decisions that resonate with the unfolding match dynamics. Many managers, myself included, have experienced frustration watching players make inexplicable decisions, such as a full-back repeatedly throwing the ball to an opponent.
Other enhancements include the introduction of recognizable Premier League venues like Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium and Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park, alongside noticeable improvements to the visual effects of the nets in-game. The most striking revelation, however, is the revamped match engine graphics, which promise to elevate the experience beyond that of FM24, justifying the transition to Unity. Yet, after nearly two years with FM24, some players find the gameplay predictable and repetitive, leading to a desire for a match engine that captures the thrilling unpredictability of real-life football. If SI can deliver a system that embodies even a fraction of this excitement, the anticipation for FM26 will be well worth it.
While the match engine remains a focal point, other significant developments are on the horizon, particularly SI’s partnership with the Premier League. This collaboration opens up vast possibilities for the game, as the Premier League stands as one of the most prestigious licenses in football gaming. The implications of this partnership may not be fully realized in FM26, but it holds the potential to reshape the management experience, reflecting the evolving landscape of football management in 2025 compared to two decades ago. Additionally, the partnership allows for greater flexibility in ‘Road to Glory’ saves, with seven leagues in the English football pyramid now fully licensed, much to the delight of statistical enthusiasts.
Interestingly, one feature initially planned for FM25—replacing email inboxes with WhatsApp-style messaging—did not pan out, but Jacobson hinted that it could still be integrated in a different form. The most groundbreaking addition to FM26, however, is the inclusion of women’s football. This long-awaited feature comes after SI developed a new player database and conducted motion-capture sessions from scratch. The past decade has seen women’s football gain unprecedented visibility, particularly in England, where the Lionesses’ success has attracted millions of new fans. Jacobson recalls how the Lionesses emphasized the importance of support for the women’s game, which ultimately influenced SI’s decision to include it.
Play to the last
The introduction of women’s football will offer a fresh perspective for Football Manager enthusiasts, presenting different statistical priorities, pacing, and tactics. While some may express skepticism, the majority are likely to be intrigued by how FM26 will simulate this new dimension of the sport. As community hopes for additional features linger, the prospect of mid-season updates becomes tantalizing, especially with the Premier League partnership. Imagine regular patches that allow players to navigate the complexities of managing newly-promoted teams or striving for a last-minute trophy.
Ultimately, FM26 is set to be an iterative entry in a series that thrives on evolution. However, it faces an unprecedented level of scrutiny and heightened expectations. As one fan aptly noted, “So much pressure on FM26 now; if it’s a disaster, they’re in big trouble.” Yet, the excitement generated by the teaser video released in August has reignited enthusiasm among fans, with many expressing their eagerness for the upcoming release. Football Manager’s nuanced portrayal of the sport has consistently mirrored real-life developments, and its influence on the game is undeniable. As always, the stakes remain high, and the only certainty is that the next result will define the future of this beloved franchise.
