Looking for a challenge in FM24? Here are the best non-league clubs to manage and turn into footballing giants!
Take a club from the depths of non-league football to the top in FM24!
I’ve always had a soft spot for non-league saves in Football Manager. There’s something about taking a club from complete obscurity and turning them into a powerhouse that just feels... right. Maybe it's the struggle, the lack of budget, the dodgy pitches, or the fact that you start with players who probably have a full-time job as electricians or delivery drivers.
If you’re looking for a true underdog story in FM24, non-league football is where the magic happens. So, let’s dive into the best non-league clubs you should consider managing right now.
Why Non-League?
Before we get into the clubs, let’s talk about why non-league saves are so rewarding.
- Brutal Challenges – No money, poor training facilities, and players who could retire at any moment.
- Long-Term Growth – You’re not just signing players; you’re building a club from scratch.
- Tactical Flexibility – Forget tiki-taka; you’ll probably need to go full “Route One” football just to survive.
- Emotional Attachment – When you take a club from the bottom to the top, it just means more.
Sounds good? Thought so. Now, let’s look at the clubs worth managing.
York City – The Sleeping Giant
League: National League
Why manage them?
York City should not be in non-league football. They were a solid EFL club for years but fell on hard times. In FM24, they’ve got a strong squad for this level and a big fanbase compared to other clubs in the division. You’ll have the resources to push for promotion, but can you take them all the way back to the Football League?
Pro Tip: Invest in free agents early on—there’s no room for error in a club that expects promotion.
York City should not be in non-league football. They were a solid EFL club for years but fell on hard times. In FM24, they’ve got a strong squad for this level and a big fanbase compared to other clubs in the division. You’ll have the resources to push for promotion, but can you take them all the way back to the Football League?
Pro Tip: Invest in free agents early on—there’s no room for error in a club that expects promotion.
Dorking Wanderers – The Fairytale Club
League: National League
Why manage them?
Dorking Wanderers are the ultimate “rags to riches” story. They were founded in 1999 and have climbed the leagues rapidly. Their rise has been meteoric, but can you be the manager to take them one step further and bring them into the Football League for the first time ever?
Pro Tip: You’ll need to build a squad from free agents—the current team isn’t quite good enough for automatic promotion.
Chesterfield – Ready to Bounce Back
League: National League
Why manage them?
Chesterfield are a big club for this level, with a proper fanbase and facilities that wouldn’t look out of place in League One. They’ve been close to promotion in recent years but just can’t quite get over the line.
Pro Tip: You don’t need to change too much tactically. Chesterfield’s squad is strong enough to win the league if you keep them fit and motivated.
South Shields – The Non-League Rebels
League: National League North
Why manage them?
If you want a club with ambition and financial backing, South Shields are the ones to go for. They’ve got serious investment behind them, a growing fanbase, and a squad that’s better than their division. If you’re looking for a lower-tier club to build into a giant, this is your best bet.
Pro Tip: Look for loan signings from bigger Championship and League One clubs—they’ll be key to your early success.
Taking Your Non-League Club to the Top
So, you’ve picked your club—now what? Managing in non-league isn’t like taking over Manchester City. You’ll need a smart plan.
1. Get the Right Staff
Your assistant manager might be worse than you at tactics, so hire wisely. Prioritise coaches who can develop young players—you’ll rely on youth to progress.
2. Master the Transfer Market
Non-league football is all about free transfers and loans. Scour the market for released Premier League and EFL youngsters—they’re gold at this level.
3. Play Direct and Ugly (At First)
You’re not playing total football here. Go for a solid, direct tactic, maybe a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 with a big target forward. Win the physical battle first, then start refining your style.
4. Improve the Facilities ASAP
Convincing the board to invest in youth development is the best long-term strategy. The sooner you get a good academy, the faster you can dominate.
Ready for the Challenge?
Non-league saves are brutal, but they’re some of the most rewarding you can play in FM24. If you’re looking for a true underdog story, one of these clubs might just be your next great adventure.
Who are you managing in non-league? Let me know in the comments! Or better yet, share your FM24 stories—I want to hear about your ridiculous last-minute promotions, wonderkid discoveries, and painful relegation battles.
Good luck, gaffer. You’re going to need it.
