FM 2017 TO BE RELEASED NOVEMBER 4:
When I was younger, I played a ton of CM/FM. And I do mean a TON. When I was at university, I had CM 01-02 running 24/7 on my computer. I'd study by it. I'd watch TV by it. It wasn't just a game, it was a way of life.
Later iterations of the game have not grabbed me as successfully — I do often yearn for the simplicity of CM 01-02 — though I did eventually sink an inordinate amount of time into FM 2007 and then FM 2012. And of course FM Live. I adored FM Live and the day that was killed remains a day of mourning in my household.
In any case, here's our new friend Max with a few words on FM 2017, which currently has a Beta out ahead of next week's official release
There exists a humorous love/hate relationship between players and the Football Manager simulation game. Testing, strategic gameplay accompanied with the chance to take over the running of your favourite football club (Chelsea!) make it an attractive and enjoyable game. Struggles arise when the detailed approach ends up consuming those who appreciate the improvement and maintenance of their project.
The simulation game holds quite the reputation in the real world of football, with coaches and scouts around the globe using it professionally for player analyses, and at least one man having earned a real life management position based on his in-game achievements. Transfer rumours get spinning when famous players indicate on social media to be playfully managing a team other than their own.
With the release date approaching, Sports Interactive games had released a video on Youtube explaining the improvements and adjustments to the game, which come along with the factual changes to real life teams and players. There is a long list of topics explained; however, from a personal point of view, the transfer windows are my favourite part; and I thought it would be fun to consider an admittedly early review of our squad and create a transfer shortlist accordingly.
Andreas Christensen – The on-loan Chelsea player is set to return to his parent club and will slot in perfectly. An intelligent defender with an eye for a pass, he will suitably get plenty of game time.
David Alaba - The Austrian left back is one of the world’s best. However, he has publicly spoken of his desire to play in midfield. The more advanced left wing back position at Chelsea could suit him to a tee, combining powerful forward runs and long shots with his qualities in defence.
Baba Rahman – Already on Chelsea’s books, the on-loan player seems a perfect fit for left wing back. With great attacking intent and wondrous crossing, the young defender would have defensive cover behind him. Alonso and Baba would be a synergetic pair of LWB’s to have, with one more defensive and one more attacking.
Renato Sanchez – Whilst an extremely unlikely transfer in real life, the powerful young midfielder has potential to become a box-to-box midfield maestro. Gradually taking time off Matic and allowing Kante a rest, the player would grow and contribute well in a team that utilises a pair of box-to-box- midfielders.
Antoine Griezmann – The dangerous French forward will have many offers, but none more perfect than to play with Diego Costa and Eden Hazard in an absolutely crazy attacking trio.
The current Chelsea team holds great quality and was well built in the latest transfer window to have a successful season. It would take great quality to improve on the first team in future transfer windows, and for fun, I would go all out to include the above mentioned stars.
FOOTBALL (all times BST):
13.00: Antonio Conte press conference (LIVE)
19.00: Primeira Liga, 1st vs. 10th: Benfica vs. Paços de Ferreira
19.30: Bundesliga, 10th vs. 7th: Gladbach vs. Eintracht Frankfurt
19.45: Ligue 1, 16th vs. 3rd: Lille vs. PSG
19.45: La Liga, 14th vs. 7th: Leganés vs. Real Sociedad
19.45: Championship, 13th vs. 11th: QPR vs. Brentford
21.00: Primeira Liga, 14th vs. 3rd: Nacional vs. Sporting Lisbon