Set Your Club Up for Success from Day One When Starting a New Save on Football Manager 2024.
Set Your Club Up for Success from Day One
Starting a new save in Football Manager is exhilarating, but diving straight into matches without proper preparation can lead to early frustration. Whether you’re managing a lower-league underdog or a continental giant, these five foundational steps will ensure you hit the ground running—and avoid mid-season meltdowns.
1. Assess Your Squad Thoroughly
How to Do It Right:
- Use the Squad Depth on the Squad Planner screen to identify gaps (e.g., only one natural left-back).
- Check Player Attributes for key roles:
- A "Ball-Playing Defender" needs Passing (12+) and Composure.
- A "Press Forward" requires Stamina (14+) and Work Rate.
- Sort players by Contract Status to prioritize renewals for key stars.
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- Pro Tip:
- Loan out young players with "Good Potential" but no first-team readiness. They’ll develop faster with regular minutes elsewhere.
2. Set Up a Simple, Balanced Tactic First
How to Do It Right:
- Start with a 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1—these formations are versatile and suit most squads.
- Assign default roles initially (e.g., Central Midfielder on Support, Full-Back on Attack).
- Add 3–4 team instructions max:
- Positive Mentality + Shorter Passing + Counter-Press is a solid foundation.
- Use pre-season friendlies to test tactics and build familiarity (aim for 50%+ familiarity before competitive games).
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- Pro Tip:
- Avoid overlapping player duties early (e.g., two Attack-duty wingers). Balance defensive cover with attacking intent.
READ ALSO: How to Make a Comeback in Football Manager
3. Overhaul Your Backroom Staff
How to Do It Right:
- Hire the best coaches for each training category (Fitness, Technical, Mental). Aim for 4.5–5-star ratings.
- Fire scouts with low Judging Player Ability/Potential (<14).
- Assign a HoYD (Head of Youth Development) with strong Personality (Model Citizen/Professional) and JPA/JPP.
- Set staff responsibilities: Let your Assistant handle press conferences if your Man Management is weak.
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- Pro Tip:
- Use the Staff Search filter to find hidden gems. Lower-league saves can still hire coaches with high adaptability.
4. Set Realistic Season Goals (and Stick to Them)
How to Do It Right:
- Underpromise in the Club Vision meeting. Aim for mid-table if you’re unsure.
- Focus on cup runs or youth development if your squad is weak.
- Check the Board Culture tab to prioritize traits like "Sign High-Profile Players" or "Develop Youth."
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- Pro Tip:
- Use the first season to build foundations. Secure survival or a top-half finish, then push for glory in Year 2.
5. Scout Smart, Not Hard
How to Do It Right:
- Assign scouts to regions with value-for-money talent (e.g., South America, Scandinavia, Eastern Europe).
- Use the Player Search filter for:
- Expiring contracts (6–12 months left).
- Loan-listed players (ideal for short-term fixes).
- Key attributes for roles (e.g., Crossing 12+ for Wingers).
- Loan with Option to Buy for high-potential youngsters to test them risk-free.
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- Pro Tip:
- Set up a Shortlist for free agents like experienced backups or mentors.
BONUS: Master the First Transfer Window
- Sell Deadwood Early: List unwanted players as "Not Needed" and offer to clubs. Use the money to fund key signings.
- Prioritize Weaknesses: Sign a backup striker before splurging on a luxury playmaker.
- Balance Wages: Avoid blowing 30% of your budget on one player. Use instalments and bonuses to structure deals.
Final Thoughts
A strong start in Football Manager sets the tone for your entire save. By auditing your squad, building a simple tactic, optimizing staff, setting realistic goals, and scouting strategically, you’ll create a resilient foundation to handle injuries, slumps, and board demands. Remember: Patience pays off. Even Klopp didn’t win the Premier League in his first season!
