Inside the World of Football Manager: A Digital Coaching Journey with Bayern Munich

The Football Manager video game series allows its players to simulate the experience of being a football coach. Much like EA Sports‘ popular series, the game releases a new installment annually. Recently, the latest edition became available for free on Epic Games for a limited time. As someone who has played the 2015 and 2022 editions, I took the chance to dive into the new game, immersing myself in the management of digital teams and forming virtual relationships, all while collecting a few digital trophies.

In this latest version, players begin at the start of the 2023/24 season. For my part, the mission was clear: prevent Thomas Tuchel from ending Bayern Munich’s streak of 11 consecutive Bundesliga championships. Each decision, from formations to transfers, played a role in shaping the season’s outcome.

Approaching tactics in Football Manager often means choosing between creative experimentation and tried-and-tested methods. I leaned towards unusual strategies, such as utilizing the libero role and forming a back three, drawing inspiration from Pep Guardiola’s past tactics. However, some challenges arose, such as converting wide defenders into midfielders due to squad limitations.

A key feature of managing a Football Manager team involves the transfer market. While retaining key players, I introduced high-profile signings, including loaning Manuel Akanji from Manchester City and securing Aurelien Tchouaméni from Real Madrid. These decisions shaped the team heading into the season.

As the season progressed, it became clear that maintaining an edge in the Bundesliga while succeeding in European competitions required calculated adjustments. Star players like Leroy Sané and Eric Dier significantly impacted the team’s performance. However, player departures and contract negotiations introduced their own challenges, necessitating careful strategic planning.

The January transfer window saw strategic moves with temporary loans and new signings of future potential players. Despite some setbacks, Bayern Munich went on to enjoy domestic success with an undefeated league season and lifted the Bundesliga title once more.

The post-season presented new opportunities to bolster the squad. Notable acquisitions included Florian Wirtz as a new attacking midfield powerhouse and various defensive reinforcements. Financial acumen played a crucial role, with transfer fees spread over several years to manage expenditure effectively.

The team’s journey through the Champions League was intense, with moments of tension and triumph culminating in a final against RB Leipzig at the Allianz Arena. Bayern, despite challenges, emerged victorious, reasserting their stature in European football.

As anticipation builds for the 2025/26 season, Bayern Munich faces key decision-making moments. Veterans prepare for departure as strategic planning for new talent and positional depth becomes crucial for future endeavors. The ever-evolving squad continues to pursue excellence in the digital world of football management.