Discover the most annoying player demands in Football Manager and learn how to handle them like a pro.
Frustrating player requests in FM and how to
handle them.
The Never-Ending Drama of Player Demands
You’re having a fantastic season in Football Manager. The tactics are clicking, the team is winning, and you’re finally seeing the fruits of your carefully planned transfer strategy. But then—bam!—your star striker storms into your virtual office, demanding a new contract... again. Sound familiar?
Managing a squad isn’t just about tactics; it’s about keeping players happy while staying in control. Some demands are reasonable, but others? Completely ridiculous. Let’s dive into the most frustrating player requests and how to handle them like a seasoned FM veteran.
1. The "I Want to Leave for a Bigger Club" Ultimatum
How to Handle It:
- If he has a release clause, you’re in trouble. But if
not, you can stall negotiations by promising to sell him at the right
price.
- Use team meetings to remind the squad of your ambitions
and keep morale in check.
- Offer a new contract with a higher salary and a 'Minimum Fee Release Clause' to keep him temporarily satisfied while protecting his value.
2. The "Unrealistic Wage Increase" Request
How to Handle It:
- Negotiate smartly—increase the wage slightly but add
performance-based bonuses instead of a huge base salary.
- If he’s under contract for several years,
delay discussions until he's closer to his contract’s
end.
- If he won’t budge, consider selling him before his morale drops and performance dips.
3. "I Need More Playing Time" – From Your 4th Choice Striker
How to Handle It:
- If he has potential,
give him cup games or late-game substitute appearances.
- If he’s surplus to requirements, offer him out on loan to
keep him quiet.
- Be honest—if he’s never going to be a first-team player, consider selling him before the squad harmony takes a hit.
4. "I Want to Play in My Preferred Position"
How to Handle It:
- If he’s good enough, consider tweaking your tactics
slightly to accommodate him.
- If not, explain your tactical vision in a private chat
and hope he understands.
- If he refuses to adapt, bench him and see if he changes his mind.
READ ALSO: How to Get a Son in Football Manager 2024
5. "We Should Improve Training Facilities" – Even Though They’re Already World-Class
How to Handle It:
- If your finances allow, consider a small upgrade to keep
the squad happy.
- If not, explain financial limitations in a team meeting.
- Sometimes, ignoring the demand works, as it eventually dies down.
6. "We Need More Squad Depth" (Despite Having a 25-Man Squad)
How to Handle It:
- If it’s a valid concern, consider signing
a free agent or backup player.
- If it’s unnecessary, reassure the squad that depth is
sufficient.
- Check team dynamics—sometimes, a leader voicing concerns can influence others.
Conclusion: Handling Player Power Like a Pro
Football Manager isn’t just about tactics—it’s about managing egos. Some demands are fair, but others? Just plain frustrating. The key is to stay calm, think long-term, and know when to compromise or stand firm.
What’s the most annoying player demand you’ve had to deal with? Let us know in the comments!
Final Tip: Keep an eye on squad morale. Even the best players can become disruptive if you mishandle their demands. Stay firm, but stay fair!
