Domination - Football Manager Stories - FM14

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

06 Apr 2015 22:13:33

Domination

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9hHQPwKP70Cu0uX9KkYSgC5eD1bUkLzlOpdwXGzF.png

Welcome to my 2nd challenge attempt on this website. In my last attempt to conquer the globe, I found success in Norway, with Stromsgodset and England with QPR among others. I am playing my favoured FM 14 and I am focusing on having a classic game. I have recently tried to play around with the editor - both in game and out - in many experiments, but I am hoping this will rekindle my long lost love for Football Manager. Also, a bit of an apology to Dan for nicking his opening picture! (and a couple more influences you might notice)

Like last time, I will be ticking off trophies and countries, but as you know in FM 14, it is sometimes hard to leave a team and club you love for some small budget Korean club for example, so I may be playing more for my enjoyment and less for trophies on occasion!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Sph70rxyKO7hmh8JyLrDyyLaPN0yCvlCQYvejMeu.png

I am starting with an ambitious 7 countries, and depending on how and if my computer deals with this, I will adjust. I always like to add a competition which isn't mainstream perhaps, so I have added the Ekstraklasa. I am disabling the In Game Editor, and I will be staying away from FMRTE and Genie Scout for integrity's sake. I am also enabling first window transfer budget. I am also starting unemployed

Next Post: Managerial History

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

06 Apr 2015 22:24:04

Managerial History

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/uKFKTzuB8F7qEB52PeQuVQ4pbfNVuYr7tbff0PKT.png

I'm hoping to fill this up with many trophies as possible, but for now, it lays blank. Gulp up this empty space.

Career History:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/aQR1OgyvwNxRK1zFOpEeZuB3j8pzcnaT4CLAVHIl.png

|

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/UgmZvP1JJykgswGTgC9tIuV5cFeEDEyC6Gldi2DM.png

| De Graafschap | 05.07.2013 - 08.02.2015 | Left for FC Twente

|

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/uW6W2RL5qHRWk0ne6prHanI4z6vM17Cwcpx65KUE.png

| FC Twente | 08.02.2015 - 24.05.2019 | Resigned

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/LxWZagIIn0F4nBXBPhfeF3bMFTkuSTR8ppOC2uC0.png

|

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/gxVTBXPEvZkXmQrxtEhUOG1B0kINKrz7HZ3zxk5X.png

| Cordoba CF | 17.09.2019 - | Currently Managing

International Career History:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/yKFajgq16VzwD5NEinaUeJZsHW39ZQVjdTDx7IqP.png

| Ireland | 03/07/2016 - 19/07/2018 | Resigned after World Cup

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/7vLJzyUNO06jyNHJ45qb9IsFurzaSeQZToKAqfnV.png

| Greece | 14/07/2019 - 24/03/2022 | Resigned after failing to quality for World Cup

Trophy Cabinet:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/quX3ts0BKwvzcSx7HCLM8EMgLfJzcja6SRhQTvmG.png

| Jupiler League |

| De Graafschap | 2013/14

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/W9lK6VRfijf6dpE9dsof9OkuBINS3HsmDEC9BWP1.png

| Eredivisie |

| FC Twente | 2016/17; 2017/18; 2018/19

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/g2EWE9pV7nSPW7BIboVrkbzUtRTdTs1ZCeWLypmN.png

| JC Schaal |

| FC Twente | 2017/18; 2018/19

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SKksT9fScUh3qh2Ox6GHembEmIh9oGn1KcZcHC4a.png

| KNVB Beker |

| FC Twente | 2018/19

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/LBAflNs3JzCpRwNfoldczZ5B6gZGBIzoQJfvadBZ.png

| Liga Adelante |

| Cordoba CF | 2019/20

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/uxUpPuurb8ApglhDMRYDUIHj9I3uuc0Iwc5VPT4E.png

| Europa League |

| Cordoba CF | 2022/23

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/xvt5OLNaQRspqcQdbLSgcIZKrUFN68LALVBdatSq.png

| Copa del Rey |

| Cordoba CF | 2024/25; 2025/26

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/QKWgUt29ddKtBK45wj7S5EOMdvlWXbaF5uM4K56a.png

| Liga BBVA |

| Cordoba CF | 2025/26

Country Completion:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/6No6N1RjMRCHxdzf4mcLQEl7w3Q0fhHHEEDDgJ0I.png

| England | 0/12

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ZsabjugBJZJysBIgXmhfYDMnYsb0lHWNkrTvOvou.png

| Europe | 1/6

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/qiF0mh8bXuWXjQKsoygNGOnbuRF8KP75X2Ega6uf.png

| France | 0/10

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Ay3FVeeYBxhtzms0ipQIDTaUk4sR4PfWrWXxOoEN.png

| Germany | 0/5

| Italy | 0/9

| Netherlands | 4/4

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/TGgPIGNuWcRzWD5S8DxWrKKQ1cR2J6KMqixMeqov.png

| Poland | 0/3

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/DFAGwgdcsNQiQTazPRKgXcsZhCBEx1G7E9crudki.png

| Serbia | 0/3

| Spain | 3/9

Next Post: First Job...

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

06 Apr 2015 22:52:31

First Appointment
05 July 2013

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/V4vmAj64JZWM7GI3QHhWnU2Cdl0zLucVObBSBEe4.png

The humble beginning of a spectacular career. I hope. My first job isn't exactly humble - my ex-pro footballer status seems to have earned me respect in the footballing world. I had two offers on the table, in short succession after interviews from Saarbrucken, Shrewsbury Town and De Graafschap. To be even considered for these is much different from what I have encountered from an unemployed Sunday League start. Not thoroughly unexpected though.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/rXPAYERKhBsZR6lPRZ7e9CSE6Qsg48hrbG8rg9rW.png

Despite having a decent knowledge of European, and Dutch football, I honestly have little to no knowledge of this De Graafschap. The current financial situation at the club was more promising than Saarbrucken. A £250,000 transfer kitty has given me leeway to change the squad in this first upcoming transfer window, and we are predicted to come 3rd in the Jupiler League. I will attempt to complete this section for every club and country I manage, but here is a brief history.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/3RD5Rob36p10HeyLrlqn3WR5MARaWS1FGbrw9rfu.png

De Graafschap are a medium sized club Doetinchem, and play in the 12,600 capacity De Vijverberg stadium. They have a very modest history in Dutch football. I aim to get this small club promoted, and see what happens after that.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ppoKLuhpnAfJllkKev2yW8c5zRLTioN0Qby6cuwe.png

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I hope this isn't a total rip off of Dan's style. I apologise if it is, I just like the format!

Dan

13 years ago

1 year ago

16,964

07 Apr 2015 07:35:56

Now that here's a blast from the past for the careers section! Good to see you back and best of luck with ~~ripping off my format style~~ this save! Don't mind you using the style at all!

Johno

18 years ago

1 day ago

2,644

Premium

07 Apr 2015 16:43:16

Good luck

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

08 Apr 2015 11:07:02

Team Overview
06 July 2013

http://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/team/1000.png

I haven't played FM 14 in a while, so I need to relearn the ropes in getting to grips with a new team. I am limiting this part to a few sections: League Comparison, Tactics, Coaches and Players. I hope to become much quicker at this part whilst I go through the clubs. It would be too long to write a description of each individual position, and I also consider it too long to actually sort out the training whilst in game. Attempting to decide whether or not I focus on either Tactics, Defense or Attack each week is a massive pain in the arse really. I don't really know if a difference in training actually makes any difference.

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League Comparison

I have limited knowledge of the Jupiler League, as I've stated, but I can grasp the challenge of the league easily. There are only 2 promotion spots, and many clubs can qualify for these depending on where they finish in each period. Obviously, a 1st place would be great, but if I finished 1st in any of these periods, I have a chance in the Play-Offs for promotion.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9DmTESGONUtnk1PB067bfVdzZFRHHFN5RX7EZJJ7.png

We are fairly average, if the FM 14 Team Comparison feature is anything to go by. I know it is calculated through an average of the whole squad, but we mid-table regarding certain key attributes: Strength (13th), Passing (10th) and First Touch (10th). I am aiming to implement a possession based 41221 formation, which I have used before, so these might need touching upon before the season kicks off. As always, I might be looking into these way too much.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HcvYYhz5FdVGbKGpw2TWXj1hdTGR56uaT0ZzDkJB.png

I've had another look, and if I choose only Defenders, we have the best Strength and Jumping Reach, 2nd best Positioning and 4th Heading and Marking. I might have to focus on beefing up my Midfield and Attack first.

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Tactics

Tactically, I am far from astute. I know this might get me scolded, but to start with I use a decent template tactic, such as one I found which I liked on fmbase or something, and then tweak things. For De Graafschap, and most other teams, I am going to use a personalised version of a successful online 4-1-2-2-1 tactic I have found online. I have used a tweaked version in the past and had success. The setup is fairly simple, but I'll put up a screenshot anyway.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/eK2DI28vYXnSXiMBHn1XjN7exaqJoXJ4cJlOzyFe.png

I guess I'll just have to see if this will affect De Graafschap, and win me the title.

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Coaches
Getting a good set of coaches is important. it is vital for an Assistant Manager (AssMan) to be skilled tactically and have good ratings for Man Management and Motivation. I am going to leave my AssMan alone for now, as he is an integral part of the team, despite his low stats.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/M4T73KjZXs3wEhpLrox2sNLGcl3Ef9VbFS3d3iLC.png

Here is my AssMan. He is spectacularly average in all his Coaching attributes, and I see no need to remove him for now.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/dttcRHZRBplaceXejYgcOrmj5aNLeUK8w9hkqi2m.png

I am though going to attempt to remove my coach, who has awful Coaching attributes, with no simple attribute surpassing 10. My GK Coach and Physio team are going to stay intact, but I will tweak the personnel in my scouting team. I wish real life was like this, and humans were given attributes regarding their ability!

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Players
It is hard to summarise each individual position, but I'll have a try. My GK department is fairly weak, with 3 distinctly average goalkeepers.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9McSM7RzM8n1lfJkBaARlzI5L2buDyZ4wMvCvVk6.png

My defense, like I said, look solid. I don't think I'll need to transfer any players out or in until January when I gauge the ability levels and consistency levels of some of them. They starting players look like lower Eredivisie standard players, and all of them are sub-30 years old.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/FltuCQFkhuXBZQEi2vcc6BJpsmAeUSep2LDaoCBZ.png

My midfield is also really solid. It looks like I have 2 or 3 skillful wingers, anchored by many decent central midfielders. Obviously, it will be an area that will be scouted as I have one on-loan winger and 2 starting CMs that are the wrong side of 30.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/RqOpe5CNmNhannNCzeeCzeJCg0vHkIndJYOuyfPs.png

The striking department is probably my weakest. According to my squad depth, it consists of Santy Hulst (10 finishing), Brahim Darri (a loanee) and Nathan Kabasele (another loanee and is quite young). I only have one lone striker in my formation, but I will hopefully purchase one with a finishing stat that could promote and sustain this side in the Eredivisie.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/07YFKywdKehWzwr3zqCjk8iDrWWrJyfXrAIhb1rU.png

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I hope this is informative enough for the viewers. Originally my plan was to skip all this and get playing, but occasionally I enjoy the written side to these stories! Next time will hopefully be at the end of the season, unless I get fired or something like that!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

16 Apr 2015 11:02:07

2013/14
22 May 2014

My first season as a manager has just been completed. It was compelling playing in a league I had little knowledge of, but it was simple to understand. The Jupiler League is highscoring league, with 2 players finishing the season in the 20s, goal tally wise. I made few adjustments to the squad, and kicked on with the season.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/lKjiY8tqO7Wv3j2x4gvFMr0qqKz9GNhUk3kjB18f.png

Matt Targett & Ioannis Gelios were brought in, and eventually squeezed their way into my First Team.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/6MIjJoAofiWwEWg1pDX9kGjCGmkFaqPREAvsXMmc.png

It was harder than it looks. Up to around April, I had Helmond and Volendam within 1 point of me, and just edged it at the final hurdle. Fortunately for me, a great start meant I secured a play-off place in the 1st Period. First trophy off the list, 3 more to go in Holland!

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Players

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/enyYCN9YtVSBxC38JRy2dkFuwVqTtTp1fFuxDof7.png

We have a solid squad. A tidy defence, which is occasionally just awful. I might need a new LB, as Targett is awful defensively. We didn't have an outright goalscorer. We shared the goals around the team, and often I'd win games with 4 different scorers. Tim Vincken is hot and cold, but to the point where he scores so many goals, I just can't afford to sell him.

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Domestic Cups

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/WlKKStFmoCE16cy07AmnckvA97dDW9GrpOUeEOEK.png

Despite some promising performances, such as a 3-1 away win over Eredivisie side in NEC, we faltered at lowly FC Emmen in the 4th round.

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Next Season

My aim is to simply consolidate my position in the Eredivisie, and with both leagues being extremely tight this season, possibly sneak into a European challenging slot. I have no idea on the quality of the league, and will determine whether De Graafschap are good enough to compete in the next 3 years. I may shake some things up. To start with, some of my key players are loanees (Gelios, Darri and Targett) and will either need to be renewed or replaced. I will judge this next season.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/oUNHYITqorAmXJxvWk9DCUOkvfIDzUWyIbX7Qhkf.png

My wage budget and transfer budget have drastically increased (£45K to £65K & £250K to £540K respectively). This gives me a bit of dough to play with, and fill in the gaps in my squad. It may just end being filled with promotion clauses though.

Dan

13 years ago

1 year ago

16,964

16 Apr 2015 11:45:45

A good first season mate, lets hope you hit good form next season!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

18 Apr 2015 19:12:59

2014/15
08 February 2015

Second Season Syndrome? I hope not. My first set of games against the big clubs of Holland - Ajax, Feyernoord, PSV and the like commence, and I hope to make an impact. It will be a good test of the strengths and weaknesses of the team.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/CqOwRBBUwbFlla2myGX2K2uYmgl1un7YReQS9EYk.png

I needed to strengthen two areas filled by loanees last season. I replaced Matt Targett with Jason Davidson, and Ioannis Gelios with Sean McDermott.

My AssMan also signed my two players (Anco Jansen & Wimilio Vink) in the AMC position, which might help our strength in depth.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/wspfuGS4wGdo2oJlICJYtcwWgTSSZqznq1sNFVGL.png

At this point, we were solidly above the automatic relegation place, and also the play off places aswell. The different colour of text, though, might give a hint of what came next.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/6PZ5t5cuXP61LmU0sn5sIs12jPYg06j81gW6srBY.png

FC Twente, who won the Eredivisie in 2010, were 4th from bottom. Once Fred Rutten was sacked, and I was linked to the job, I could only apply and see what happens. Fortunately, it paid off. I'm kinda sad to finish and unfinished journey with de Graafschap, and leave them with a very possible relegation threat, but for the sake of not stagnating in the bottom half of the Eredivisie for a few seasons, I have moved on. maybe one day I will promote a club from the Jupiler League, and build them into a challenging team in the Eredivisie, but not today.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SW0EvbWeYUZDtR78Myk4Ovnx8y3W0wh1nm7yKMot.png

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http://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/team/1009.png

FC Twente

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ih7KfSeklOeeOmgZFbvfiyk8cVjBSq5PbIEuRR84.png

Okay - a brief introduction to this team. FC Twente, formed in 1965 in the town of Enschede, just up the N18 from Doetincham - the home of de Graafschap. Famous in the last decade for winning the 2010/11 Eredivisie under Steve McLaren, this team shouldn't be finishing in the bottom half with the quality standard of players on hand.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/dceJSIjSLQ66lumvPycYDD99EVW6Jc2AjnTfQhAB.png

So, why FC Twente? A number of factors had discerned me from attempting to bring success to de Graafschap. One of them was that too many players were on one year contracts, and simply weren't accepting longer contracts. This forced me to spend way too much on wages, because I didn't know if I could get better players. Also, my attempts at increasing the scouting range beyond Central Europe weren't being accepted. When Vitesse ended their loan of Vink, because he wasn't playing AMC (I was playing him at CM), brought me over the line. I wanted to leave, so I chose the money. A brief comparison of the budgets of Twente and de Graafschap will give you an idea why I switched. It is easier to win competitions when your budget is tenfold larger. I am starting my reign with £4.3 million, and that is just the transfer budget.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/PzF5V9KpKLwYJMnCtwNaOl63FMCE0MQxgRZ4YmoI.png

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Players

My squad looks fairly solid. A few quality players such as Felipe Gutierrez and Quincy Promes might make the difference in our hopeful escape into mid-table.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/bWP6opFOso3ouRnMCOvddIAKxcAiYJf9WHUQCPoH.png

My GK department is fairly weak. Will need to replace a couple of these in the summer.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/yZqEl73DfBOoZC2ebtN9fHyfNlU2tKjvmLeQ74un.png

I need a couple of new full backs too, and a new CB aswell. We need a defensive reshuffle.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/zZr3idvCj277OcG6eRLs6FaR2aRZj62UbGPj0hnc.png

I have strength in depth in midfield. Ebecilio, Gutierrez, Promes and Corona are all talented footballers, and should prevail in some goals and tonnes of assists.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/PeqNajZV8v99C7AZ9iu4V2CLS8tGj82Ocq5WNkNZ.png

I also have two talented young-ish strikers. Midfield is the position I will need to strengthen the least in the summer though. A midtable finish is all I can hope for in the 2nd half of this season. Also, if things go pear shaped, I'd like to assume I'd try to avoid relegation

We'll see how things have gone in the Summer update!

Dan

13 years ago

1 year ago

16,964

18 Apr 2015 20:03:47

A good season in the top flight mate, good move to Twente nonethe less

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

19 Apr 2015 10:44:15

2014/15
17 May 2015

Not much to update you on. We were in a mess when I took over, and despite me stupidly claiming that their goal of Europa League Qualification was possible, I don't think I will be sacked.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/uLLuJY4AaHBEeWHf4TufUogwIrGS0roiRbMXaaqt.png

This team are frustrating. I'd win 3-0 against Utrecht (4th), and then lose to NEC (15th). Frustratingly inconsistent, with not enough talented players for the budget I've got. I might need to get rid of some players. Quincy Promes, for example had a poor season, yet is worth £5.5 million, and if I can manipulate a team into spending £10 million, I can bring some quality replacement in for him. He only started half the games for me anyway - Jesus Corona was more effective! Next season should give me an idea whether or not I can achieve success in this career! A European place, and the KNVB Beker are the target this season.

Also, I'm fairly glad de Graafschap stayed up, and funnily enough, last years rivals, Volendam, who were mid-table all season got relegated!

Johno

18 years ago

1 day ago

2,644

Premium

19 Apr 2015 11:43:47

Good move with FC Twente

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

21 Apr 2015 17:00:15

2015/16
16 May 2016

Now the work begins. FC Twente are a large club, with a large following. They should be competing in Europe. My aims this season are to rejoin the European elite, and win the KNVB Beker. To do this, I needed an empty out of my squad.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/kLHasgHer273WZ5NOy28Ng1ccG0Tujg4Nofutnp8.png

A number of players were moved on, some for good fees, and often to bring in replacements. Luc Castaignos was moved our to justify the acquisition of Raul Ruidiaz.Ricardo Centurion replaced Tobias Sana, Eric Dier replaced Paolo Cannavaro. Vegar Eggen Hedenstad is a quality adaptable full back brought to replace Cuco Martina.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/3PPY957wAONns0yGncxJ8LKeCvV37qZweBkTQI0J.png

I luckily have Man Utd as a parent club, and brought in talented players like Andreas Pereira, Yassine Benzia and Guillermo Varela in for free. I also loaned Nabil Bentaleb, who made an outstanding contribution since January.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/AcmfPdjhvo8VEKhsM35nzH5uGko18E1qAchhohcD.png

My first team GK, Kiko Casilla is a necessary asset. Much better than the plethora of 4 2* rated GKs I had before this transfer window. I also signed a wonderkid, Robert, from Fluminense on a free. What a steal!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/zDBNnP81fNq4bAsxFCIIcVYKEIj7GqBThW0MBT93.png

It may look like my season is very successful. But it isn't. I'm not sure what the best way to say this is, but PSV were very lucky to claim 2nd place. We were positioned there most of the season, but some late season bad form left us having to win the last match, and PSV to lose. Unfortunately, PSV were 2-0 to Zwolle, but equalised in the 2nd half. An unfortunate end to a great season. We started off scoring loads, then we tightened up at the back, and just as sod's law predicts, we started to misfire, with a few poor performances in front of goal. This season will be defined on my failure to secure key wins against the Top 5 teams.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SrXwtcJ03s51pUDbSpgdVHi955qz7YkNqVQEwbgI.png

Fucking Zwolle. They derailed my cup campaign, they derailed my league campaign, and didn't derail PSV's by keeping their 2 goal lead in the final game! I was so close to either getting to the QFs of the KNVB Beker, or the CL Play Offs!

Also, it pains me to see de Graafschap relegated. They left the top flight with a whimper, and a tonne of debt that I left them to live with!

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Players

With a lot of new players, it is common for a team like ours to gel. Fortunately for me, we gelled very well. We didn't have the attacking prowess in terms of nice play, but we were scoring a tonne of goals. My new defence, featuring Koppers, Bjelland, Dier and Hedenstad took a bit longer, but soon proved to be the 2nd best in the league!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2uKuLxzsM37SUK11nm55loJQe9Fq1Z3DxfUJpJ0L.png

It is hard to call out the best player this season. None of the players stood out as world class. They just performed above average. If I had to single one out though, it would be CM Kyle Ebecilio.

I am aiming to streamline the squad. Removing the deadwood, and replacing it with talented players without disrupting the team too much is my plan for the summer. A larger squad is needed, as we will be shoved into the deep end with Europa League Group Stage football confirmed next seaosn!

bmg033

10 years ago

1 week ago

2,268

21 Apr 2015 20:09:46

I have Robert in my Middlesbrough save, he will be quite good for you in the future!

Two other young Brazilians, Kenedy and Nathan, are worth keeping an eye on too.

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

23 Apr 2015 13:46:24

2016
04 July 2016

An interesting job offer came in during the summer of 2016. I have barely started adjusting my Twente team for the current season, but this came into my inbox, and I felt it would be something to do other than my club commitments. So, I guess I am now part-time manager of Ireland!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/jgv5moSFJpLzvghVqwHXfzUQ33q9TPfWOBjoSl1j.png

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https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/mWvwi6EbLRq6MBjY4ivQhlN5IDKrfuOslKm6vSPC.png

Ireland

For the sake of continuity, I will give a bit of a background to countries, even though this kind of thing is kinda self-explanatory. The Republic of Ireland is the southern, and larger part of the whole of Ireland. Famous for Guinness, Leprechauns and Damien Duff. Well not really. But yeah, I hope I can qualify for the Euros and bring success to this nation!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/NfOwIdjvKzVYIJ9Aw1UML3kQsGdRsiSDGeSvNJsl.png

We have a bunch of talented players, but we lack the quality to win any large tournament. I'll see how far I can go!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/IAHRhqrpW2FGSAxfzQUylEviJGTOBDU0ol8N7usA.png

So yeah, next update will be at the end of the season, I hope. See ya then.

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

27 Apr 2015 22:21:10

2016/17
27 May 2017

After coming close to Champions League qualification last season, I'm hoping to progress to that stage. Last season I had the talent, just not the consistency. With the same set of players, we also have to have a go at Europa League performances. I didn't spend much in the summer, due to contract renewals taking a lot of my transfer budget.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ynAI668auGVP3ihQtUMzb8jkSanb4z9DwYfLf0Gh.png

First off, Benzia and Varela renewed their loan contract with me, both with zero fee. Benzia picked up his goalscoring talents near the end of last season, and preceded to impress me into loaning him again. Varela was a backup full back last season, and we needed him again. The other 3 signings (Martial, Boetius and Cirigliano) were all backup players, excepet Cirigliano who might push to be the first CM in the team.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/UrM4kwjW8uZARKe2hVYP4vcv16duhqmiVZ8J3kPf.png

This table doesn't show the whole story. We had some amazing spells, especially in the first half of the season, but a choke and limp stagger over the line gave us our much deserved title.

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Players

4 players with goals into the double figures. Benzia was on fire, keeping him for next season is a must.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Ff5b0YAo5nNiaRtuzOainvg9wpVa66qWwMnwbj2m.png

Look all the way down to Felipe Gutierrez to see how amazing he was before his injury against Everton!

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KNVB Beker

I need to win the cup to tick off this nation.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0xcpGer3k8vl8UK1XIxwELOuIlp4CIJiaED9jPDR.png

An amazing cup run culminated in a frustrating 6-5 loss in penalties in the final to VVV. Next year, next year....

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Europa League

After a challenging play off against Dinamo Moscow, we were placed in a fairly tough group, featuring Valencia among minnow BATE and Zilina.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SLNbP3RwQuKJ47GQtrgDLJz7BjiCtFZ7wmJYbQQQ.png

We kicked butt. No, seriously, a 2-0 win away at Valencia and an 8-0 win at home against Zilina provided a 1st place, unbeaten finish in this group. Next up, Everton.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/qWetYR961ROq4VyEDg9e8dQZcrSpe9QXSTYYc4LF.png

A nice 2-1 away win provided a perfect setup for a winning tie. Unfortunately, a 4 month injury to Gutierrez derailed his season, but we should still prevail.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/miUB5PWYKthKsga5a5DHrY7j7p0aksA8vuT3kb5x.png

Bullshit defeat once again. These two matches were sandwiched between the most important game of the domestic season away at Ajax, and I had an injury ravaged squad, this took the piss. To lose from Kike Casilla kicking into Johan Martial's back, for N'Doye to score into an empty net is so fucking annoying. Anyway, life goes on. I anticipate many other attempts for this trophy.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Vm5HfxsOkqAK1C2RiNwynEAV4mdA3kVEF9kxUzRS.png

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Takeover

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/UQ8uCTXXLjylBdNacL16ZOQmRbbVCmTV3qNexvZU.png

A consortium proceeded to take over the club, giving my transfer budget a boost next season. I had thoughts of leaving at the end of the season, but I still need to win the KNVB Beker and the Supercup whatever it is called.

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2017
27 May 2017

My first season in change of the Irish has reaped a few rewards. We were placed in a tough group featuring Turkey, Italy and Czech Republic. We have shown good potential so far, but a 3-0 home loss against the Czechs has dimished my hope for success from this group.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/EF0XeLjshWQeHh8L7dz9jm4fYhApo9E1xvy9TVWL.png

Next update, I should have completed another season and possibly qualified for a World Cup!

Dan

13 years ago

1 year ago

16,964

28 Apr 2015 08:33:20

Superb work securing that league title matey!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

03 May 2015 09:46:42

Getting a "Whoops, something went wrong" whenever I add a season to this story. Can anyone shed any light regarding why this is happening?

bmg033

10 years ago

1 week ago

2,268

03 May 2015 09:53:52

By Cheik It Out | On 03 May 2015 - 10:46 AM

Getting a "Whoops, something went wrong" whenever I add a season to this story. Can anyone shed any light regarding why this is happening?

Are you trying to enter the 2017 season? If you are, the error message is probably because you've already entered it. When I clicked on 'Manager Stats' at the top of the page above your OP, the 2017 season is there if you scroll the page down.

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

03 May 2015 10:12:28

By bmg033 | On 03 May 2015 - 10:53 AM

Are you trying to enter the 2017 season? If you are, the error message is probably because you've already entered it. When I clicked on 'Manager Stats' at the top of the page above your OP, the 2017 season is there if you scroll the page down.

Nope, 2018. Filled it out exactly the same way as usual. Is there a limit to the amount of competitions you can have a season or something?

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

03 May 2015 14:59:07

If anyone can help, I'm having trouble with adding a season to my story. Here are the screenshots. 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 . Also, thanks to Dan and others for reading this; I enjoy writing these, so I hope your enjoying it too.

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2017/18
20 May 2018

The be a champion twice, is the hardest challenge, they say. Apart from the two domestic cup competitions, which will further my long term challenge, this season will provide a challenge as both PSV and Ajax have strengthened. My hefty budget gave me a lot of flexibility with the players I have got.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/rNWBiTEC7sLThSZXIvEJsITicBOP7tUVdzvX0553.png

A lot of change has occurred. I let Kike Casilla go, as I thought a £4.8 million fee at 31 was a good deal. I also made profits on Ezequiel Cirigliano and Johan Martial, whom were both brought on a free last season. Raul Ruidiaz finally left me; he was a bit of a flop!

I attempted to buy as many 4.5* quality players, for as little money possible. Bargain deals for Everton, and FM14 wonderkid Agustin Allione were made. Long term target Fabian Moreno was acquired for a small fee too - Thanks Velez! I brought in Hugo Gumeiro, who proved to be nothing special, and found Deynor Montero, who is a gem of a GK in January to replace him! Adel Souissi, Damien Makarewicz, David Cudjoe and Chaz Maphumulo were all regens, with potential to be future stars.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/De1yHh1T637FLlSczDwkyXb30AVO2I5NhmnDPpdT.png

A notable outgoing loanee is Ricardo Centurion, who still hasn't reached anywhere near his potential aged 24! Hugo Gumeiro leaves on loan aswell, paying 70% wages, because I brought in Deynor Montero. Yassine Benzia and Guillermo Varela both renewed their loan contracts, to my delight! Alex Walker joins as a first team midfielder.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2inURC01AMYJX4E9PkVrLFWsLdcrbc7Ac4J79z48.png

I managed to pick up some great free players. Fabian Samuda is a talented American attacker, but has yet to find a permanent place in the first team. Rachid Ghezzal effectively replaced Ricardo Centurion, Davide Narduzzo is a decent GK, who started most of the season until Deynor Montero came, instead of Hugo Gumeiro. Alexis De Sart and Niels Wouters were players with decent potential, and I might be able to sell them on in the future.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0Igmiax1DWrUkJDVM7XmfMW24MY3uBCUOHvytl9Q.png

One of the tightest finished to a league! Ajax and myself were head-to-head all season, but we prevailed with an outstanding final day win against Excelsior! Also, matchday 31 provided the match of the season; the judgement day between the two best clubs in the division. I was so tense in this match.

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Cups

My first Johan Crujff Schaal trophy brought the season to a start. I completed this trophy, and knocked it off the list with ease! VVV were no match.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2HB06sYxYWkMqXpQk9BbDjLaVqhFVMmmpmavawiv.png

I had an awful home defeat in the KNVB Beker against ADO Den Haag, which pissed me right off at the time. I still need to tick this trophy off the list!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/D8PLpFWOQAMcAJQXOyub9T7ghLBmTtYzPaVVOzl8.png

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Europe

Holland has a Group Stage place for the 1st place team, but we have an awful seed. We drew Bayern, Benfica and Olympiakos - not an impossible group.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/CC6W59KBzNkeOGJxLtkoX7RgUnukgYk5Wn6u4DyS.png

Unfortunately, injuries and poor form harrowed us in this part of the season. It wouldn't have been a surprise if we finished 2nd, but 3rd place was definitely deserved. Europa League it is. I faced Monaco, Spartak and CSKA Moscow knocking them out one by one, and reached the semi final. My team performed well in the first leg, but went into the 2nd leg 2-1 down, but with 1 crucial away goal. This is how the 2nd leg went:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/pYNoe2iFTubVfAinDVxqA9dkNIklXbYWLXmGgQjv.png

A soft penalty forced the match into penalties, which knocked us out, unfortunately. This was the furthest I have got on a European stage. I am probably going to be in the same position next year, as I still need to win the cup, and I'll hopefully win this cup!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/vV4aAmZ10QXQsMaKxfrkspQvyB1CcXROPkMrX1C9.png

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Players

It is hard to pick a stand out player in our team. We were brutally efficient many times in the season, winning 1-0, or 2-0 in the process. As the season progressed, we gelled, and effectively became a great allround team. Benzia is the star man once again, due to his striking prowess, but Hedenstad will most likely get the Player of the Season due to his amazing full back performances. A great player for 3 seasons now. Robert and Moreno finished the season brilliantly.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/7GDAHkWcpBmAUSbuKa31ABScoLXKCuriVghP9IIM.png

The talent in my team justifies the fact that I will spend little next season. We were unlucky in Europe and the KNVB Beker - next year it might just all come together.

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2018
20 May 2018

We were in a good position, but faced some tough fixtures. An away game against Czech Republic and Italy commenced if we are going to get to the World Cup. Here is how the group finished.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/oQbTFoVgMv9kbF8rW3Joa4z5ResnClQ5GHnto31i.png

2nd in the group is amazing for this distinctly average group of players! We face Belgium, the 2014World Champions

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/kQswRPbKIm9vEESLi8EI5mozCLiGNzb3L4k59lUf.png

So we had an awful first half, but 2 crucial away goals were scored in the 2nd half. A good comeback, but I still need to win by 2 in the return leg.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/cmvr8acXN38N7DxqRVHCiBOJI00yMnfJs7xAoOM3.png

Amazing! Neither us or Belgium played well, or defended well, in either match, but we somehow won this game! It took me by surprise! Considering that this is a little side project, which I put barely any effort or time into, this result is magnificent. Here is the group we've been drawn.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Fbu91AcWvbVASK8SX6uFh5zKmrgqshBP9ejagfJ2.png

You can imagine the next post is going to be about the World Cup. I have still yet to start even the first match, or pre-competition friendlies, so I guess I'll update you on the tournament in the next update. I will resign as soon as the tournament is over - 2 jobs is hard to sustain, but this has had a huge impact on my reputation. I've already been offered jobs at Arsenal and Southampton - but I like to take teams up from lower leagues, or start with smaller clubs (not that Twente is a small club but...).

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

10 May 2015 16:32:54

World Cup
19 May 2019

It is fairly late in the season, but I still haven't updated my story for the World Cup with Ireland, which was very enjoyable! We got put in a hard group, with Chile, Spain and Iran; all decent nations! All of my squad are fully fit, minus Arsenal's Seamus Coleman. This is how the group stage went:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/IHlAAev7m4ZBDD3w02URfFOe3fVYMfBvAB57jL2b.png

Well, a very good group stage performance. We started with a comprehensive 5-1 win over Iran, which was a great confidence booster. Out counter attacking style led to a surprise 2-0 win over Spain, and I rested several players for the Chile game, as we had qualified! Brazil are next!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ZeHaY235Qn10B9GQNQLYojwk3MZrnURYhcZ9WuKO.png

Utter madness! We had barely any shots on goal, only equalising with a lucky own goal! And we dragged the match to penalties, and of course, we won! Ireland beat Brazil! Unfortunately two first team players, James McCarthy and Aiden McGeady were both injured.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/VCZ1VEZzgoX80pFQ2qziQNSlBh9HLTGasgEthl6D.png

A convincing win for Colombia unfortunately, who went on to lose the final to Germany. A great World Cup, beating Spain and Brazil though! I will resign, just to commit to Twente, so goodbye International football for now!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

10 May 2015 17:56:48

2018/19
22 May 2019

So, KNVB Beker or bust? Well, my the domestic cup has evaded me for 3 seasons now, so I guess so. Obviously, winning the league and improving club stature via European competition is a must, but those are trivial aims. I have limited the amount I have spent this season, but a transfer overview is always useful, so here it is!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ZsUsLU5PF0Qk5rMmpURBgo780irbzc6AK7LFZTQl.png

I made a few irrational transfers this summer. A £3.5m move for Quincy Promes was stupid, a move for Filip Kostic was unnecessary. But Cleilton Camilo and Stipe Marinovic are / will be good transfers. Additionally, I let Ricardo Centurion move on for free, and moved on Hugo Gumeiro and Tim Holsher.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/6hqU4YFKGye65soeSxSHdnH6bsDPF1ccjVIwtsgK.png

Kristian Svendsen is a decent, potentially very good full back. And, Guillermo Varela has been a staple of my team / bench for 3 years now, and I offered him a contract last January. No-one left on a free from my first team. It doesn't say anything in my loan column despite renewing both Yassine Benzia and Alex Walker's loan contracts. 4 seasons in a row now for Benzia! Here is the end table.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/k4emugMv7NAcKgXq6XjBghSonkiY8gaTcOQBSn18.png

This, once again, doesn't show the whole story. My team were dominant from the start, and I was 10 points adrift at the top during the Winter Break. Poor form in February allowed Ajax in to the mix, and they pushed me all the way! FC Utrecht are cementing their place as the 3rd best Dutch team, securing Champions League football potentially two years in a row. Poor showing from ADO Den Haag, who were 2nd in the league when I took over at Grolsch Veste!

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Cups

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/EaDIeNHltFRe05zN5AOICSBbBifb2UWeP1ppWZ3R.png

So, I won the JC Schaal easily, beating Excelsior 3-1. the important trophy, the KNVB Beker, went well. I knocked out Telstar and Rijnsburgse Boys fairly easily, and then overcame Zwolle and AZ comfortably. I was 100% sure I would lose on of these. We followed that up by beating Vitesse 4-1 in the semi final. We are just too good. Here is the final.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/RTIdN8IPCSzy81g8TvlqQH4GJWSZwvjbSuQPLIvo.png

A nervy final over Groningen, who can be very dangerous at times. We held on, and technically I have finished every trophy in the Netherlands!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/L7owlLFecwzccJGRuu6PGN95DbiYk5PB5zcYNeSq.png

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Europe

Not especially my priority, but a good spell in Europe might result in an improved Eredivisie and FC Twente for the future. We somehow escaped a hard group, and came 2nd. A 4-2 win over Bayern was the highlight of the group stage.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/cE8BFnKRnVJL1YEcS42C3V2ccLL1U1oYQ57IWliF.png

We faced Real Madrid next. They still have Cristiano Ronaldo and are one of the best clubs in the World, of course. After a 1-1 draw at home, this is the result of the 2nd leg.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/fq3Dg1sreSHD6lPhG7jrm57Zls1tPOoZLen3y0DG.png

Over two legs, we did extremely well. We lost by 1 goal against a team who dominate wage and transfer spending worldwide. We could've won, if we scored with 5 minutes to go! But a fair loss, and we faced Bayern and Real, competing against both of them very well!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/p7XADeFsf4PmlqJAfrk6Tge3W6qacY4aOzDYzh4Y.png

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Players

Our star men were Agustin Allione and Yassine Benzia unsurprisingly. The surprise is the rise of youth players to the starting eleven. Thijs Remie, Hidde ter Avest, Bilal Ould-Chikh and Ismail Daoudi played huge roles domestically - 2 of these are regens created under my regime. I have a tonne of good youth so far, and have invested heavily in youth recruitment and facilities - Twente will produce good players for a good number of years.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Awm7W0IRKmNjt509GuM0VAkoTVNHaBcvOkSHhUMx.png

The Future? Well, I am sad to say I am resigning. I have taken FC Twente from near relegation to triple champions! I need to move on to fulfill trophy aims and objectives. It may be a while before my next update - I will be in transit between clubs!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

10 May 2015 21:42:06

Greece
15 July 2019

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/FPjCOtCcs0IVNu37AJtXQnElMUYaGDl4cHxVrnf0.png

So, a year and a bit after my Ireland exploits, I got offered a job by Greece. They have great young players, and are 2nd in their corresponding Euro Qualifiers group. Greece is the epitome of Mediterranean countries; dry barren archipelagos with ancient cities. The international team play in Athens.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/pUuJXvVTTRE0d7VdrXIY2179qTAhNQhdvvehSgvK.png

I will attempt to qualify for the Euros, then see where I end up.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/S1jX2Xhr4TfhNVaVrdavbqv14Q5NmgeJaD676vuP.png

Still looking for a domestic job - I've been offered jobs at Southampton and Reading, but I'm looking for something a little down the pyramid. I rejected an offer from Morecambe after attending an interview. Also, I've deleted the Italian leagues, and added the Serbian leagues.

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

11 May 2015 01:22:44

2019/20
17 September 2019

http://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/team/1704.png

My next domestic team marks my first foray into Spanish football since FM07 Handheld - and first ever time on a laptop! I have been very lucky to pick up the best team in the league, who's manager quit for the reason of 'unconfirmed' 3 games into the season! Cordoba CF are a team based in Cordoba, Andalusia. They play in El Estadio Arcangel, which is roughly 29000 in capacity. This opportunity has given me the chance to win Liga Adelante first time, although I am unaware of the challenges of the league.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Kx4AeYF4TUGrNHSWVJS0PZSZpxXhxznN2h2XpOUc.png

Cordoba have only ever had two 5 year spells in the top flight, approximately. My aim it to win this league, and compete for Europe in La Liga. We all know FM can get out of control though, so I will take this league first and see where I end up.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/xPRKjULUPkKSgNgA4EMHLakNPqEy2Vem6PkSzdb0.png

Fortunately, Cordoba have won 2 on the trot since I've applied and stand 4th in the league as I take over

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HY5cHXZCG165wgKQERPiwHgssYJBw6CDcz6boPl8.png

I have a bit of money to play with - a transfer budget of £8,000,000 with adequate wages is available in January

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/LQutgQHL2tEuQHu1cSjAcqsIUf8LVT75Wa80ogfL.png

I will update this at the end of the season. 4 updates in one day is way too many!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

25 May 2015 22:32:31

2019/20
08 September 2020

A bit of a belated update due to internet constraints, and that I have only recently finished this season due to exams and subsequent socialising! My goal was to take [b]Cordoba up a division. As I have said, we have a bit of money, and I rejigged my budget to buy a few players in January.[/b]

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/aw9HjY3AW0C96joN9Ptfynfiwebb2tigHz0EuXw9.png

We had no full backs when I took over, so I signed Kenny Tete on a free. This signing was followed by the signing of my Greek national team player Stavros Metaxakis, Daley Sinkgraven and Michele Cortonovis. I signed a couple of others on a free, but they were used sparingly.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/V4lUSyrVheSa5jmVIel8RiYXGpQH6MbZQcu0x5Dx.png

An unbelievable season in all honesty. Multiple records were broken including most points and most goals! Roberto Torres also acquired the most assists in a season. Another trophy off the list!

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Players

My attacking trio of Raul de Tomas, Garry Mendes Rodrigues and Fede Vico were no match for any Adelante defence. Added to this, we rarely conceded with a settled defence and a number of impressive CBs. Unfortunately I am writing this in my first season in La Liga and can't share the player ratings, but here is the Best Eleven.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/X0WRsxLQiSf80RcE9XpMZK3kzMRM3118okGrqIMz.png

Unfortunately Sergio Asenjo and Sergio Moya are both out of contract, so I will require the purchase of a couple of goalkeepers in the summer. I am hoping to keep the same bunch of players minus the two goalkeepers and Ivan Vorobjov who was on loan from Real Madrid. I will keep you updated on my progress, but I envisage that this project may last a few years due to my negligence of buying a new game and my time constraints over the summer!

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2020 & European Championship
08 September 2020

Greece has become a little side project which I've taken to a lot this season. I have a national pool of good players, with much more depth than Ireland did (this will be funny later). This is how qualification occurred.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/wOJdjMh1VWt1VbUKaPJNIyKlb6IVkHOAPWXL7OQj.png

We snook in behind Netherlands. We get to go to Turkey and have a go at European glory.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/UcmouSyBW29R2IMgf38mYhk93uvdGUAbNu62PzX0.png

We were lucky to get out of our group! I forgot that you could qualify in 3rd, and I was really surprised to find I got to the knockout stages! It didn't last long though.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/DZjFHtZKIpqruj06LZ7VEwNhoAZMDRZ7PNlqwzux.png

Yeah, a backs against the wall performance against Spain didn't pay off this time! Oh well, we have a young squad, with a tonne of talented regens and I definitely think I'll be able to take Greece far. The anecdote regarding Ireland can now be shown. The Winner of the European Championship 2020 is:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/q8oUluoufBVXH2ZEHJEzjQpkZGyr5yPSsZmF6Yii.png

Well fuck. Paul Lambert of all people has blown my win against Brazil out of the water with a surprising European Championship win. They now are on par with England in terms of International tournaments won!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

30 Jul 2015 20:33:20

Been away travelling, so haven't played FM for 2 months. Hoping to reinvigorate this.

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2020/21
12 June 2021

My first season in La Liga is upon me. We dominated Liga Adelante, but obviously any top flight is a different kettle of fish. We need new signings, but lack the money. I have had to resort to free signings to sure up multiple positions including GK (Asenjo left on a free) and on the wing. I'm not sure how well they will fare as free players aren't often quality.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/vxXS4JQITicVnUcipePO5ktvLeJzCCIZ2KRvQjtY.png

I have brought in Luca Crecco and Daniele Bruno to sure up the wings and give cover to the midfield. Neither will start. I brought in Francisco Castro and Andrey Lomako to inherit the goalkeeping duties. Koen de Groot is a young talented player, and the first 4* young player that came into Twente's youth intake with me in charge; he was let go on a free. Jon Ander Angulo is another talented player who will play on the edge of the first team, and I have signed Roberto Soldado as a last resort at age 36.

My two decent GKs both left on a free (Asenjo and Moya who has retired now aged 25 despite being good enough to be a La Liga player - Sort it out SI!). Sold Luis Fernandez, who was on loan last season, for £250K, but not much else to speak of outgoing.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/brLuLTxoiEKjfON1iQTTANPqxJ8Dipgx59w0Hpln.png

I'm not sure how anyone on here will accept this season's result as valid at all. We were incredibly lucky, and my tactic is working amazingly well. IMO our squad is probably the 15th best in the league, yet my first team all over-performed. We also suffered little to no injuries. I wasn't sure how well this would end; we started decently, in line with the top 7; we just kept winning 2-1 against multiple teams. I have also beaten Barca and Atletico this season. Ask for any proof of proceedings and I will deliver. 3rd is just a little to unrealistic.

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Players

As you can see, the amount of players I used was minimal. Apart from Fede Vico, none of my first teamers suffered an injury of longer than 3 months. Raul de Tomas, Garry Mendes Rodrigues and Michele Cortinovis all stood out, as like last season. My new arrivals were all solid.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/eLsojfl1jv1DAkUW1U4dLOUCH8dKutKG4ki8sUcc.png

We didn't get that far in the cups, falling against Villareal. This suprising season has left me many question - I was planning on quitting after this season as finances were poor, but with Champions League and Position money, I should get a decent budget to bolster the squad. Also quite a few players have had their reputation enhances and are now easier to sell for higher prices.

Sheriff Skacel

10 years ago

9 months ago

940

Premium

03 Aug 2015 18:02:44

85 points is absolutely obscene, its a tough situation you find yourself in. Do you capitalise on CL money and strengthen the squad? (risking the squad becoming unsettled and it hurting your performances) or do you just add a handful of players and keep the faith in the current lot? (and risking this season being down to luck)

How old are your key players? I'd say if you have a youngish side stick with them and only add to a few key positions, some of the average ratings in your squad are abysmal so there's definitely room for improvement. I'd say you are right to hang around, see what budget you get, see what players are available, reassess again in pre-season.

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

27 Aug 2015 18:56:56

Hey Skacel - it seems like the CL money has wiped a bit of debt off, and as of now (end of the season), my balance is £20 million. You will see how much money I got to spend. You will see how I've strengthened, but I was so lucky in the first year with virtually no injuries, I had to get some new players.
My Spanish key players are quite old - Roberto Torres (32), Bruno (31) and David Timor (31) were first team players when I first took over, and are still key first team players, but I can't build a team around them. They are also limited in the sense that they are Mid-Table standard, I would say.

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2021/22
15 May 2022

Second Season Syndrome? European Football? How will we cope? It is unusual for a team to get promoted and finish in the top half, let alone 3rd. That is going to be nigh on impossible to follow! I am keeping roughly the same squad, and bolstering it with free agents. I'd rather save money for free players wages, than buy some over priced players. To start with, a few players left this season.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/gpXD84cY6d22cehDnpCQSMoRyYiszPZnZvyGGTme.png

I am using the Cash/Claused Transfer filter, because like always a few noones and youth players leave on a free or on loan. I have made money on Daley Sinkgraven, and got good money for both Jorge Rubio and Hugo Martin. Edu Bedia leaves after playing a bit part role last season. I also let Kenny Tete (my first Cordoba signing) and Daniele Bruno leave, to free up some wage space.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/zthL6SWQgG0fVTWKzZB3VxAJhN9W6gbpnD5jyIkd.png

As you can see, my two monetary investments were Jeremiah Bereng, a South African regen defender (on loan for two years) and Andrea Bertolacci, a player who has impressed in the Serie A in recent years for Sassuolo. Maximilien Prevost scored 18 goals for Rennes in Ligue 1 last season, Guido Vadala is a quality player, but hasn't much experience. A risky, yet possibly great signing. Sergey Vasiljev is a promising GK, and will hopefully replace Lomako in coming years. Thomas Lemar is another promising midfielder. Sinan Kurt was once a prodigy but hasn't taken off. Mohand Cherif Amellal and Malik Morand are two young, free fullback to compliment Cortinovis and Metaxakis.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/LoqAhdZBUQomx2DY7bhDejcEhVj5hiWj2f8hMSvs.png

A tough season. The 2nd half was particularly embarassing, but two wins from the last two games propelled us from 7th to 5th, and guaranteed European football once again! I lost nearly double the games as last season, conceded 10 more goals, but scored 7 more aswell. We were entertaining, and often attempted to score more than the opposition a la Keegan! We need to strengthen the defence now. Bruno is aging, Bereng is only a loan, Nagy is not great and my 4th choice is 18 year old Ignacio Garmendia who may be a first team player, but shouldn't be playing week in, week out at this stage in his development. You can see my poor for after Christmas below

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/tD7UkgaFKxGswiiD187IOJ1NPNEFZf5cyhkLVYtr.png

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Players

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Lho21FRhejYZuyHnrxKq8Os4wa4aWbRMlbVGJhPI.png

The insane amount of goals is shown here. 4 players got double digits, and 4 players got double digits of assists. Also, our defence weren't great, so we'll need to buy possibly two new ones next year.

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Cups

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/gXa33Up9fZinKF9EJHT3xKVAaVwIa3nUsqnefsuG.png

Went out to Real Madrid in the 5th Round. A bit disappointing, but kinda annoying to play the best team so early.

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Europe

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/q5GgJ0vLNdxbKCK3LJRWpT6Pb0MANbNaAyN36N0v.png

We automatically make the group stage, and our strong home form, and Fenerbahce's incompetence, let us claim first place in the group. We were demolished away from home against Wolfsburg & Arsenal though.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/mZMtnmr7bUPSXqGHWg7GQ1p5s73HULjgLjtDAsLI.png

After defeating Lyon in the First Knockout Round, we were eventually knocked out by Tottenham. I'm very happy with our first European displays, and maybe a shot at the Europa League may be in sight next season!

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2021 & 2022
15 May 2022

The less said about my Greece career the better. My side have been playing well, but not scoring against the better teams. The final product was not qualifying for the World Cup in 2022. Switzerland and Russia both out qualified me; I have resigned (not sacked) and may eventually pick up an international team in the coming years. Cordoba are my only plan as of right now.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/d95gRg67TbVAmevMfg41PnLIc2ou0hYwC4Km2OZn.png

I will post again once I complete the next season!

Cheik It Out

13 years ago

8 years ago

204

03 Sep 2015 22:00:48

2022/23
24 May 2023

I've not got any expectations this season. Despite my success in Spain, I still have a low balance (approximately £30 million) and therefore low transfer budget. I can't compete financially with the Madrid clubs and Barca at this point in time. We've got Europa League football to concentrate on aswell, and after leaving in the Quarter Finals of last year's Champions League, I'd say we might have a chance. I'm going to delve into transfers, starting with players who have left me this year.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/626OQtIYf2lFRe1VNC68kXtnCquccOhDrHCi7eSn.png

Imanaged to get Andrea Bertolacci of my wage budget. He is good, but shouldn't be my top earner, and also was injured during most of his time here. Sinan Kurt, another who flopped, is off to Greece; young striker Xabier Gonzalez, who isn't good enough to make it, has been shipped to Romania - bloody immigrant. Imre Nagy, decent defender, is off to Cadiz whilst ex-captain and player of the year in my Liga Adelante season, Roberto Torres is off to Russia. I guess I'm mostly sad about his transfer. As I'm only listing Cash transfers here, is skips that Andrey Lomako went on loan this season to Murcia; we can only have 3 non-EU players in our 25 man squad.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Hc5RoPxyjOqv25kWoYbtuEnwgmAQYCy0VOS9mWKG.png

We have added an influx of talented players to our squad. Marquee free signing Mario Gotze is the standout - only 30 so still can be a top level player. I strengthened my defence with Marius Muntean, and Brazilian Xuxa midway through the season. They replace Imre Nagy, and aging Bruno. Ismail Daoudi is my favourite player incoming - I brought him into the first team fold at Twente, he played decently, but since I've left he transferred to Dynamo Moscow, and then to Manchester Utd's reserves. I have signed talented winger Jean, but forgot that I could only have 3 non-EUs, so he only played in cup competitions. Manuel Cereda is a young, but talented attacking midfielder, and will provide depth behind Guido Vadala. Diego Gonzalez is a bit of a wildcard choice. I don't know his best position, but has great finishing and dribbling, but isn't defensive enough to play centre midfield and won't start the campaign as a striker or attacking midfielder. Dave Wildschut and Miguel Cuellar are goalkeeping cover; both young, EU and talented. The last meaningful signing there is Daniel, who provided injury cover for Cortinovis.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SDK1pTOAMhrr1Itqm9Kt5iQ3hWvhVL0opTo37kCR.png

Not the year I was hoping for in the league. Same position as last year is a sign of stability, but I don't want us stuck in a rut like Spurs IRL. The top half of the table was immensely competitive - 6th to 10th changed places most of the year, with the top four quite clear. Injuries struck though; some notable ones include Cortinovis for 5 months, Cereda for 6 months, Mendes Rodrigues for 3 months, Vadala for 3 months, Vasiljev for 2 months, Prevost for 3 months and Daoudi for 4 months. The cover I brought in was definitely needed. We lost twice in the first half of the season; I would make a guess that we would've finished in the top 3 if we had better luck.

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Players

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/uUr9kY9ljQ6xeCwCzFJclYkpTjf2nnwMjNuI2G3Y.png

As you can see, due to the poor second half of the season, our average ratings stats aren't great. We scored a lot - 5 players achieving double figures; and 4 players assisting double figures (including Stavros Metaxakis who had a good season at right back). Defensive work is needed; I would say we should replace Cortinovis, who isn't good enough defensively. I was impressed with Daoudi, who had 8 goals in 9 games before being injured for 4 months. Prevost started slowly, but finished very well. Player of the Year is easily Fede Vico - a homegrown, Cordoba academy player. Very happy to have him on the left wing, gets better with each year.

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Cups

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/spX0y05HyRQ6uq6vgltnwMAbu6ucFXk050qUW9Q7.png

Not too much to shout about - we faced the 2nd best team in the country in the 5th round this time, during the midst of my injury crisis. Malik Marand (RB) started at centre back in one of the matches.

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Europe

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/hTpnAxnfFAXYbZWMRu6QZHyK0yl2zrpAQ9UyyYIy.png

We got a fairly easy Europa League group, and despite losing by 5 odd goals away in Moscow, we played fairly well and I could rotate and try youngsters against the weaker two teams. The follow rounds, we faced Sparta Rotterdam (good for the old Dutch coefficient); beat them, then faced a tricky tie against the new club of Sinan Kurt, Olympiakos.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HqVhVng115N1UwARa7pV0Ijw36WgZNyLT3feW7AG.png

Apart from being the game which gave a bad injury (3 months) to Prevost, we beat them with ease, with a spectacular 5-3 win at home. Next up Dortmund, much tougher and former Twente winger Agustin Allione is an ever present in their team.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Tm7cuY2zjdI4EvGtikHBNxDxT7NN28fHswzbEMM8.png

I've showed the first leg, because it shows our prowess in this tournament. We lost 2-1 away from home, but went through to the next round against Club Brugge, who knocked Valencia out.

A tricky two-legged affair. 5-4 on aggregate, but through to the final. Lyon, the team we beat in the 1st Knockout Phase in the Champions League last yeat. Beatable.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/d0MIen96mXebvpD3sjZ4vNdUGr1fkpdcdNh7lSRG.png

Maximilien Prevost, in his first game back from injury, scored the winner for my first European Trophy in this adventure, and Cordoba's first ever cup! I'm very happy with this, although we don't qualify for the Champions League, because it isn't FM15

.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ISI3HngW3GSLqYqe7tSZDZXj04Ya0KLsbQPevUrU.png

A very good end to a bad 2023; but we need to press on in the league next season. I am not so bothered about the Europa League next year, although I'll try to go as far as I can. Champion's League qualification is a must. Without injuries, and with a much better defence, it is feasible.

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