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The floodlights at the Narcís Sala have a way of exposing everything. In the heat of August, they promised glory; by the cold damp of December, they just show the bruises. I stood in the tunnel after the 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Valencia Mestalla, listening to the echoing silence of a crowd that expected a revolution and got a reality check instead. We didn’t have a summer window to fix the cracks—we chose to fight with what we had. Now, halfway through the war, we’re finding out exactly who is willing to bleed for the four stripes, and who is just passing through.

Ep.2 · The Reckoning · Halfway there. Nowhere to hide.

 

If you just look at the table, you’d think the revolution is on track. We’re sitting in the playoff spots, right where the board demanded we be. But the table is a liar. It doesn't show the late-night tactical headaches or the games where we snatched points we didn't deserve. We are 3rd, but the gap to the top is widening, and the pack behind us is howling.

 

Look at that run. It’s been a rollercoaster of high-octane wins and sobering defeats. When the 4-2-3-1 clicks, we look untouchable. When it doesn’t? We look fragile. That 4-1 loss to Valencia B was a punch to the gut—a reminder that in this league, if you blink, you’re buried.

“I told the boys in the dressing room: the table doesn't give you trophies in December. We’ve survived the first half of the season on adrenaline and grit, but the second half? That’s going to require something more. We’re in the hunt, but we’re also the hunted.”

 

Because we turned the summer transfers off, this squad has had to become a brotherhood. There was no "new signing" coming to save us in September. It’s been Sergi Serrano out wide and Alexis García pulling the strings. But the fatigue is starting to show in the numbers. We’ve leaned heavily on a core group, and as the yellow cards and knocks pile up, the bench is looking thinner every day.

Marcos Mendes has been the focal point of everything. You need a striker who can thrive on the "Ràbia" of the barrio, and he’s delivered. But football is a cruel mistress; one injury to him or Señé, and the whole blueprint starts to look shaky. We’ve been playing a dangerous game of fitness roulette.

 

Tactically, we’ve been found out a few times. Teams are starting to sit deeper, daring us to break them down, knowing we want to play that high-energy, expansive game. I’ve had to tinker—shifting from a pure press to a more measured build-up. It’s a work in progress, a constant chess match against managers who have lived in this league for decades.

 

And then there’s the black cloud. The finances. We’re still in the red, and the projections for the end of the year are enough to keep me awake at night. The board is happy with the league position, but the bank manager is less impressed. Promotion isn't just a goal anymore; it’s our only financial exit strategy.

The data corner

 

• League Position: 3rd
• Form (Last 5): W-L-W-D-L
• Top Scorer: Marcos Mendes (The Lifeblood)
• Clean Sheets: 4 (Room for improvement)

The January window is about to creak open. For the first time since I arrived in Barcelona, I have the chance to change the faces in the dressing room. But with the bank balance screaming and the squad chemistry finally settling, do I dare mess with the soul of this team? Or do I double down on the original 22 and pray they have enough left in the tank to reach the finish line?

The barrio is watching. The revolution is at a crossroads.

Next time: "Reinforcements" — The winter window opens, and the stakes have never been higher.

The air in the Carrer de Santa Coloma is thick with the scent of coffee and the quiet, heavy anticipation of a neighborhood that breathes football. In the shadow of the Narcís Sala, the posters still bear the stripes of the Senyera—red and yellow, the colors of a people who refuse to be overlooked. I’m standing at the gates with a one-way ticket from England and a contract that feels more like a manifesto than a job offer. No glitz, no billionaire backing; just 117 years of history and a town that expects a revolution. I haven't won a single game yet, but looking at those empty stands, I can already hear the roar.

S0 · The Pilot · Why Sant Andreu?

A stranger in the barrio. A club with a soul. The mission begins...

The news broke with the kind of skepticism you’d expect when a 31-year-old Englishman with zero playing pedigree is handed the keys to one of Barcelona’s most defiant clubs. The press release calls me "inspirational" and "motivational," but we all know what the locals are thinking: Who is Kyle Wilko, and what is he doing in the fourth tier of Spanish football?

I’m here to inject energy, sure, but I’m also here to prove that you don't need a trophy cabinet full of medals to understand the soul of a club like this. “I walked into the first board meeting and didn’t see a chairman looking for a mid-table finish. I saw a group of people who are tired of being the 'other' team in Barcelona. They don't want a manager; they want a catalyst.”

Unió Esportiva Sant Andreu isn't just a club; it’s L'Orgull del Poble—the pride of the village. This isn't the tourist-trap Barcelona of Las Ramblas. This is working-class, gritty, and fiercely independent. Looking at the history, the peak was a 4th-place finish in the second division back in the 50s. Since then? A lot of time spent in the wilderness.

We have "Average" facilities and a "Regional" reputation, but we have a stadium that holds 6,500 people who care too much to see us fail. My job isn't just to win games; it's to make people remember why they wear the four stripes.

Look at those kits. The Senyera. You don't put those colors on and play "safe" football. You play with blood and thunder.

Every revolution needs a general, and I’ve found mine in Josep Señé. At 33, he’s been through the wars in the higher divisions, and his technical quality is frankly a joke for this level. 14 Passing, 14 Technique—he’s the heartbeat. For this season, If he’s fit, we play. If he’s not, we struggle. It’s that simple.

The plan? Aggression. We aren't going to sit back and hope for a point. We're lining up in a structured 4-2-3-1 that transitions into a suffocating high-press. I want the ball, I want the initiative, and I want the opposition to feel like the pitch is shrinking. We’re going to be the most annoying team to play against in Spain.

Then, the reality check. The bank balance is a modest £222,729, and the transfer budget is... well, zero. Not a penny. The wage bill is capped, and those financial projections? They look like a steep descent into the red if we don't get promoted fast. This isn't a "Moneyball" story; it's a survival story. We have to win to keep the lights on.

The board hasn't been shy: reaching the playoffs this season is "Required." Not "Preferred," not "Desired."Required.  My contract expires in a year. If I don't deliver immediate success, this will be a very short documentary.

The data corner

• Media Prediction: 3rd (Promotion Contenders)
• Star Man: Josep Señé (£4.6k p/w)
• Transfer Budget: £0
• The Goal: Reach the Playoffs (Mandatory)
•  

The first pre-season friendly is days away, and the squad is thin—just 22 players to navigate a brutal season. I’m looking at the faces in training, and some of them look like they’ve seen too many managers come and go. They say Barcelona is a city of dreams, but in Sant Andreu, dreams are earned in the dirt. Can an outsider like me handle the heat of the Quadribarrats? Or am I just another name the barrio will forget by Christmas?

Next time: "Building the Squad" - The window slams shut and the real work begins.

Season 5 – Bittersweet, But Smashing Expectations​

As we reach the end of Season 5, it’s another highest-ever finish for the club… but I can’t lie, there’s a small part of me that feels like there’s some unfinished business here.

Results​

After the winter window closed, we really kicked on again and pushed hard at the top of the table. For a while, it genuinely felt like we might just pull off something ridiculous.

But the warning signs were there.

We were conceding far too many goals. 4-4 draws, 2-2 draws… games that should’ve been comfortable were turning into chaos, and eventually it caught up with us. A rough couple of weeks, three losses on the bounce, and suddenly we’d lost control of the automatic spots.

From there it became a bit of a grind. Hanging on in games, trying to steady things, and for the first time in this save it felt like we were properly struggling over a sustained period.

Thankfully, that early-season form carried us through and we secured a playoff spot, setting up a tie with Luton.

And well… it didn’t quite go to plan.

A late goal from them, no response from us at home, and just like that the dream was over. We’ll be in the Championship again next season.

It’s frustrating, no doubt about it.

But stepping back for a second… this season has been a massive overachievement. The way we’ve attacked this division has been unreal. 109 goals scored is something to be seriously proud of, and if we can just tighten things up at the back next year, who knows what we can do.

The Team​

We ended up leaning back into the 4-2-3-1 attacking setup, and when it clicked, we were still incredibly dangerous going forward.

Losing Campbell in January definitely had an impact. It’s hard to replace that kind of quality mid-season, and I do think it played a part in us dropping off slightly. But overall, the level of this squad now compared to where we started is just incredible.

There are a few players who deserve huge credit.

Davies in goal has been outstanding and looks every bit like a future Premier League player. Ashcroft has been really solid at right back and hopefully sticks with us as we keep pushing forward.

Going forward, McConnell, James and Washington really stepped up in the second half of the season, with Pedro and Robertson chipping in as well. And leading the line once again, O’Mahony with another 27 goals… just ridiculous consistency.

And of course, we still have Charlie Carter hanging in there, leading from the front as captain even if it’s mostly from the bench now. Proper club legend.

The Club​

Financially, it’s still an uphill battle.

We’re operating on around £6 million in wages, which is miles off most of the teams around us, and just highlights how big of an achievement this season really has been. In a strange way, maybe going up this year would’ve been a step too far.

The bank balance is still in a decent place though. No major debt, some room to work with, and a chance this summer to reshape things slightly and improve where we need to.

We’re never going to compete with the big spenders, but smart recruitment is what got us here — no reason we can’t keep doing it.

Off the pitch, the good news keeps coming. Marc White has once again confirmed he’s not going anywhere, which is huge for the club. It’s great to see that core of Dorking still intact as we grow, and we’re slowly building that identity with former players moving into staff roles as well.

And to top it off… I’ve been offered a new deal.

So of course, the journey continues.

I’ll see you all at the end of the summer…

Season 5 – Mid Season Update

Well… at the end of the last update we said survival was the aim this year.

Yeah… we might need to rethink that.

Results

The Championship didn’t exactly start how we wanted. It was a bit rocky early on and I was clinging to the idea of the “Kev ratio” — keep it around a point per game and we’d be absolutely fine.

That was the mindset. Stay afloat, tweak the tactics, stop leaking goals and just survive.

Then October happened.

The switch to the 4-3-3 completely changed everything. It just clicked. Since then it’s been win after win after win and we’ve not really looked back.

Now, 31 games into the season… we’re top of the league.

Top.

We’re 2 points clear at the moment, although Burnley do have a game in hand, but still… this is turning into a proper fairytale. We’re definitely conceding more than I’d like, but it genuinely doesn’t seem to matter because we just keep outscoring teams.

What a season this is turning into.

The Squad

We’ve spread the minutes around a bit, although probably not as much as we’re used to now we’ve found a more settled side.

Herbie James and Mark O’Mahony have been standouts once again, just consistently delivering week after week. And Harvey Davies deserves a mention as well — even with the number of goals we concede, he’s been massive for us when it matters.

You might notice a few changes in the squad though…

The big one is Chem Campbell. We received an offer we simply couldn’t turn down — £4.8 million — and at this level it just made sense financially. But there’s no getting away from it, it’s a huge loss. He was such a key part of the way we played, and replacing that kind of quality mid-season is never easy.

We’ve also moved on from Calvini, Walton and Chigozie. None of them were getting the minutes they needed, and with most of those deals being loans anyway, it felt like the right time to make the change.

To fill those gaps, we’ve brought in some serious reinforcements.

Stephenson arrives on loan from Brentford and immediately looks like the best defender at the club. Torres comes in to give us cover at right back, and then there’s Augusto Co from Arsenal — a proper wonderkid who not only adds depth but walks straight into the starting XI.

Up top, we’ve brought in Deivid Washington to try and soften the blow of losing Campbell. He’s not quite at that level, but on a free transfer and given the circumstances, it feels like a smart bit of business.

The Club​

Financially, the Campbell deal was a big help because the Championship is definitely starting to bite. Even with improved sponsorships, the smaller stadium and rising wage bill mean we’re feeling the pressure a bit more this year.

That said, with the position we’re in now, there’s a real chance we’re heading for a very strong financial boost in the summer. If we can keep this up, the club is going to be in a fantastic place.

There were also a few worrying rumours about Marc White potentially leaving, which is the last thing we need right now… but thankfully everything seems calm for the moment.

Seriously… don’t even think about it, Marc.

The Run-In​

After the way this season has started, there’s no way I’m slowing this down now. We’re going all the way to the end of the season in the next update.

Let’s see just how far this fairytale can go…

Come on Dorking!!

Season 5 – Welcome to the Championship​

So here we are… our first ever season in the Championship.

And yeah, this is going to be a serious uphill battle.

This summer has been a bit of a tricky one in places, but with the money starting to increase as we climb the leagues, we’ve been able to do a bit of wheeling and dealing and start shaping a squad that might just be able to compete at this level.

Transfers​

Starting with the outgoings, Longman has moved on after a solid spell with us, bringing in a tidy £900k which is good business all round. Kacurri unfortunately leaves on a free after his contract expired, and Upson heads out on loan in search of more game time and experience.

As for the incomings… that £900k didn’t hang around for long.

Emil Monsen comes in as a real project signing. Only 18, but already looks like he could develop into something special. The fact he can become homegrown is a big bonus as well. There’s a hefty release clause in there, but long term it feels like a risk worth taking.

Neufville adds some really useful versatility, covering both right back and right wing, and already looks like he’ll be a solid option. At the back, Campbell is now partnering Mitchell more often than not, and while they might be slightly on the older side, they bring a level of quality and experience we’ll definitely need this year.

In midfield, Suarez and Rodriguez are big additions. With the slight tactical shift we’re making, these are exactly the kind of players we needed. Rodriguez in particular, coming through the Barcelona academy, looks like the type of young leader who could be huge for us this season.

To round things off, we’ve added Chigozie and Cooker at centre back, along with Robinson up top. It feels like we’ve added some real depth across the squad now, and also brought in a bit of experience to help steady things as we find our feet in a much tougher league.

The Team​

With all that in mind, this is how we’re shaping up heading into the new season.

There’s a real mix of old and new in there, and I’ve made the call to move towards a slightly more defensive, counter-attacking setup. The hope is that it helps tighten things up at the back while still giving us a threat going forward.

We can always fall back into the 4-2-3-1 if needed, but for now… it all makes sense (at least in my head).

And with all the changes, the squad as a whole is looking much deeper than before, which is something we’re definitely going to need over the course of a long Championship season.

Also, a quick mention for our first proper homegrown product stepping into the spotlight — Solly Casciato. He might not look like much just yet, but I’m hoping he can make an impact off the bench and grow into a really important player for us over the next few seasons.

The Challenge Ahead​

The media, unsurprisingly, are not quite as optimistic as I am.

We’ve been tipped rock bottom at 400-1… which is, well… not ideal.

When you look at the finances, it’s easy to see why. We’re spending around £6.3 million on wages, which is miles off the teams around us and a long, long way behind the big hitters at the top of the league.

So yeah… survival is the name of the game.

But then again, we’ve been underestimated every single season so far.

Now it’s time to kick off the biggest season in the club’s history. New kits, new players, a new challenge… and plenty of optimism.

Let’s see what happens.

See you in the winter!

Season 4 – Keep on Rolling Babyyyyyy…

Well, as the title suggests… the Wanderers train is not slowing down anytime soon!

The Results

I mean, just look at it… a sea of green.

It’s been an unbelievable season. Another record-breaking run, only 5 losses in the league, and we didn’t just go up — we absolutely ran away with it. Winning our final five games on the bounce just topped it all off perfectly.

To do this in our first season in League One as well… I didn’t see this coming at all.

The front line has completely carried us at times. 121 goals scored across the season tells you everything you need to know. We were decent enough at the back, but truthfully we didn’t really need to rely on it too much when we were blowing teams away most weeks. We’ve gone from competing to dominating, and now we’re heading into the big leagues.

The Team

I can’t lie, I’ve slightly fallen in love with this front line.

Across the board they’ve been unbelievable, and I’ve also done the classic FM thing of getting far too attached to a loan player. Salkey has been immense and fitted in perfectly alongside Robertson, but with his value now there’s just no way we’re getting him back. That one is going to hurt.

Still, this group as a whole has been brilliant. Campbell and James both hit double figures for goals and assists, but what’s most impressive is how much the entire team has contributed. It really has been a full squad effort.

Looking ahead to the summer, we’ve already got a few departures confirmed. Kacurri and Pochettino will be moving on, along with Rutherford. Rutherford is probably the toughest one to take emotionally, but realistically he just hasn’t been used this season, and with Smith coming in and making such an impact it feels like the right time.

Smith himself won’t be staying either, but 9 goals in a short spell is a great return and he leaves on very good terms.

One big positive has been the emergence of Casciato, one of our homegrown wingers. He’s stepped up really well at this level and looks like he could be a very useful depth option going into next season.

A Look at the Club

We’ve also finally had some interesting news off the pitch… talk of a new stadium.

Nothing confirmed just yet, but with the current 6,000 capacity clearly not being enough anymore, it’s something the club really needs. It would be amazing to see us take that next step and get a proper home to match the progress we’ve made on the pitch.

Financially, things are still under control. It hasn’t been too damaging this season and we’ve got a bit of room to work with thanks to the new budgets. That said, I think this summer needs to be a cautious one. The step up to the Championship is massive, and the last thing we want to do is overspend and put ourselves in trouble.

Because let’s be honest — with teams coming down from the Premier League, the money at that level is on a completely different scale.

We’ve ridden the momentum perfectly so far, but now it might be time to tighten things up a bit and be smart with how we build.

The next step is the Championship… and I won’t lie, this is where it gets real.

So I’ll throw it out there — do we stick with the squad that’s got us this far, or is it time to start properly upgrading? Any signings you’d be looking at or positions you think I need to strengthen?

Season 4 – A Slightly Delayed Mid-Season Review…

Apologies for the delay on this one — Easter got in the way a bit and FM time took a hit. But we’re back, we’ve made some serious progress in Season 4, and now we’re fully charging towards the run-in.

Results

So… somehow, we’re top of the league after 33 games.

I genuinely don’t know how it’s happened. We had a pretty shaky start and I was just hoping we’d settle into mid-table, but once again the 4-2-3-1 has worked its magic and we’ve just kept picking up results.

Cup-wise, it’s been a bit of a mixed bag. We were knocked out early in the Carabao Cup after drawing Premier League opposition in the second round, which was always going to be a tough ask. But on the flip side, we’ve made it to the fourth round of the FA Cup, which is a brilliant achievement at this level and a nice little bonus for the club.

In the league though, we’ve been flying. The back line has been really solid, and going forward we’ve been relentless. James, McConnell, O’Mahony and Campbell have been unreal, and between them they’ve already racked up 70 goals this season… 70. It’s hard to believe how effective this system has been.

Some Squad Movements…

With things going so well and the starting XI now pretty settled, rotation has naturally dropped off a bit. Because of that, it felt like the right time to move a few players on, free up some wages and start thinking a bit more long-term.

Sadly, that means saying goodbye to Louie Annesley. He just wasn’t getting the minutes anymore, so it felt like the fair decision. The same goes for Frank Vincent, although it’s good to see him already getting game time at Tranmere.

We also moved on players like Gilbert and Offord, who just couldn’t quite break into the squad, bringing in a tidy bit of profit in the process.

To replace Offord, we brought in Sam Smith — not that one — on a short-term deal. He’s already made an impact coming off the bench with a goal, so hopefully he can be a really useful option for the rest of the season as we push on.

We’ve hit a bit of a snag as well… nothing a few contract negotiations won’t fix, but we’ve somehow ended up under a transfer embargo. We’re only about £800 a week over, but it’s enough to completely block any movement for now. Not ideal at all, especially at this stage of the season. That said, I’m confident we can sort it over the next few months with a couple of loans and some new deals — just a slightly frustrating bump in the road.

The Run-In

Looking at how things are going… we’ve got a real chance here.

At the start of the season I would’ve been more than happy sneaking into the playoffs, but now? Sitting top with this kind of momentum?

Maybe… just maybe… we can hold on. Automatic promotion might actually be on!

Season 4 – A New Era Dawns at Dorking Wanderers​

Well we’re back for the start of Season 4, and this one feels different. This feels like the biggest summer we’ve had so far.

If this was a YouTube series, this is the point where you’d roll the highlight reel. Promotions, big wins, last-minute goals… and a few fan favourites taking centre stage before everything changes.

Because this summer, things changed.

It’s been a bit of a sad one in truth. We’ve said goodbye to a lot of the legends of this save, players who dug deep for us back in the National League South and helped build everything we’ve achieved so far. But as we climb the leagues, these moments are inevitable. It felt like the right time to move a few on and keep pushing forward.

Transfers Out​

We’ll start with some very good business.

We managed to bring in £425k for Billy O’Neill. He was pushing for a new deal on pretty huge wages, so we decided to cash in… and somehow managed to bring him straight back on loan for the season for free. Genuinely feels like a win all round.

Holland was another one who had to go. He wasn’t happy without a new contract and it didn’t look like that situation was going to improve, so we moved him on for a small profit. Olayinka also heads out as part of the clear-out.

Then there’s Brennan Camp. Probably the toughest one to take. I still think he could’ve done a job for us at this level, but he wanted a new challenge and it didn’t feel right to stand in his way.

Outside of that, most of the other outgoing deals were loans — trimming the wage bill a bit and hopefully letting a few players develop with regular football.

Transfers In​

Now for the fun part…

Walton comes in at left back and will rotate with King. He’s come through the Barcelona youth setup as well, so there’s definitely something about him.

McConnell slots straight in as an attacking midfielder option behind O’Mahony. He might not hit the same goal numbers, but everything points towards him being an assist machine.

Willock adds depth on the left and looks more than capable of growing with us as we keep climbing.

Herbie James… this is the exciting one. Absolute wonderkid potential. I’ve definitely sold him the dream a little bit with some release clauses in there, but if he delivers, he could be a real game changer for us.

Campbell comes in on the other wing and brings some really useful experience at this level and above. Feels like someone who can quietly chip in with big contributions over the season.

At centre back, Calvini is a bit of a statement signing. I’ve no idea how we managed to get a work permit sorted, but he looks like he should be playing Championship football already.

Offord gives us another option up front alongside Rutherford. Not the main man, but definitely someone who can step in and do a job when needed.

Gilbert was a bit of a quick opportunistic signing. Former Norwich player who looks like he can cover multiple roles across the attacking line, which is always useful.

Stivanella joins Calvini at the back, and using a European slot on him already feels justified based on the early reports.

Pochettino comes in to fill the gap on the right after losing Camp. Versatile as well, which always helps over the course of a long season.

Salkey arrives on loan from West Ham and honestly looks like a little superstar. The kind of player you wish you could keep, but with a £6 million price tag that’s not happening any time soon.

And finally Longman, a bit of a late addition just to round out the squad depth. Slight injury concerns, but if we can manage him properly he should be a really solid option off the bench or in rotation.

Squad Update​

This is how we’re shaping up heading into League One.

James is currently unfit, so Longman steps in for now, but it already feels like we’ve got good depth across the pitch. There’s also a chance to start integrating some of the younger players if things go well.

It’s also great to still see players like Annesley, Carter and Rutherford hanging on and being part of the journey. That bit of continuity always makes these saves better.

The wage bill has definitely jumped up, but we’re still operating within our means, which is important given how quickly we’ve risen through the leagues.

The media are fairly positive too. They’re predicting a mid-table finish, while the board just want us to avoid relegation. Quietly… you’d like to think we can beat both of those.

Off the Pitch​

Financially we’re in a strong position again with £2.2 million in the bank. There might still be a need to move on a few fringe players just to keep things balanced, but overall it’s a healthy place to be.

On a personal note, I’ve finally completed my National A Licence after constantly pushing the board to let me take it. So we’re improving off the pitch as well as on it.

And of course… new season means new kits. Lovely stuff.

Now it’s time to kick on with Season 4.

See you in January!

Season 3 – The Rise Continues…

Well we’re back and we have some BIG news. Just take a look at how the second half of the season played out…

15 wins, 2 losses and 3 draws. We turned into an absolute machine… and we are promoted!

Yes, we did just about scrape into the final automatic promotion spot, but honestly after the run we went on following the winter transfer window it felt like no one was going to stop us. Once the momentum started building we just kept rolling. O’Mahony up top with Robertson just behind him was such a dangerous combination all season. Then add in the arrival of Blackett-Taylor, who very quickly turned into a goal-scoring machine on one wing, with O’Neil on the other, and suddenly we had one of the most dangerous attacks in the league. It really was a brilliant team effort from top to bottom.

The System

We stuck with the 4-2-3-1 pretty much the entire time and didn’t really deviate from it at all. The balance just felt right. Players slotted naturally into their roles, we had enough depth to rotate when needed, and with no cup football cluttering the schedule we were able to stay fresh most weeks.

Because of that we just kept attacking teams and never really looked back. The way we finished the season summed it up perfectly as well, scoring five goals in each of our final three matches and absolutely powering over the line.

The Team

The system really got the best out of the forward players. With Robertson linking things together behind O’Mahony and the wingers constantly getting forward, we created chance after chance and thankfully took a lot of them too.

Blackett-Taylor ended the season with 12 goals in just 13 starts which is ridiculous productivity. O’Neil chipped in with 13 goals from the wing as well, while Robertson finished with 16 from the number 10 role. Then there’s O’Mahony leading the line with 21 goals in only 29 starts. That’s some serious firepower for this level.

Across the rest of the squad there were plenty of strong performances as well and honestly it’s hard to complain about many of them. That said, this might be the point where we start saying goodbye to some of the original squad members. They’ve been absolutely vital in getting us to this point, but with the level rising again and the quality in the squad improving, some of them might just struggle to make the jump to League One. I’ll definitely try to keep hold of as many of the OGs as possible, but football moves quickly and sometimes the team just outgrows players.

The Club

From a club perspective things are going incredibly well. I’m now 170 games into my managerial career at Dorking and sitting on a 72% win rate which, if you’d told me that when we started this save, I’d never have believed you.

With yet another promotion secured, this feels like the moment where we need to really start building for the next level. The aim now is to invest in the squad, bring the average age down a little and try to push for the dream of a fourth consecutive promotion. Anyone who plays FM knows how these saves go — you have to ride the momentum while you have it before you eventually hit that league where progress becomes much harder.

Financially things have taken a bit of a hit this season, which is fairly expected with the squad improvements and general running costs. Thankfully Sir Marc White stepped in with a very welcome £1.2 million cash injection to keep things comfortable. Even better, promotion has given us an additional £29K in wages for the jump up the leagues. It’s not a huge transfer budget, but there’s definitely enough room there to work with if we want to keep strengthening this ever-growing squad.

Summer Silly Season

And now we arrive at the part of the save we all love… the summer transfer window. Time to see who stays, who goes, and who might be joining us for the next chapter.

I’ll see you all at the end of the transfer window.

Season 3 – Mid-Season Update

We’re back for the next update! After a slightly mad few days of playing, I’ve managed to power through half a season and—most importantly—kept us right in the mix.

The media predicted us to finish 7th, and after a strong start we’re pretty much exactly where they expected us to be. Not a bad place to be at all.

The only real disappointment so far has been our early exits from both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup. It’s always a shame to go out of those competitions quickly, especially when there’s the dream of landing a big FA Cup tie and the financial boost that comes with it. That said, with the number of games we’re already juggling this season, it’s not the worst outcome.

As things stand, we sit 6th in the league, having put together a really promising run heading into the Christmas period. With the squad additions we’ve made, I’m confident we can really push on during the second half of the season.

Transfer Movements

There’s been a bit of activity in the transfer market over the past few months as we’ve tried to add some quality in key areas—particularly now that we’ve shifted into a more comfortable 4-2-3-1 system.

A few players have moved on.

Plain was a solid player for us but had fallen out of the pecking order and wasn’t even a backup option anymore, so we decided to cash in while we could. Robson also saw his game time disappear after the step up in leagues, so he’s moved on too.

Sullivan, one of our younger prospects, unfortunately started kicking up a fuss over a new contract and ended up leaving as well. Meanwhile Reid, who had been stuck in the reserves, brought in the biggest fee of the lot with £87k.

Those departures left a few gaps in the squad, but we’ve brought in some serious quality to fill them.

Blackett-Taylor arrives on the left wing and has plenty of experience at this level. He’s joined on a six-month deal and should give us a really strong option out wide.

McCormack is another exciting addition, arriving on loan and looking every bit a future star. He’ll take up a role in defensive midfield alongside Cotterill, who also came in to add some much-needed experience in that area.

Then there’s Honeyman, another six-month signing who can play on either flank. He’s a great depth option and adds versatility to the squad.

And Herrick… well, we’ll gloss over that one! It was a bit of an emergency loan move that I didn’t realise was only until January—so he’s already gone again.

Outside of the January window we also managed to bring in two players who have quickly become key figures.

O’Mahony has arrived as our new star striker and has been sensational so far, scoring 12 goals in his first 16 games.

Meanwhile Davies has taken over as our first-choice goalkeeper. He’s genuinely a Championship-calibre player, so getting him willing to drop down the leagues to join us was a huge win.

The Squad and the Club

As we pass the halfway point of Season 3, the squad is starting to look quite different from where we began. That said, there are still some familiar faces keeping the original spirit alive.

Players like Camp, Annesley, Vincent, Carter and Rutherford are all still around, so the core of the team that started this journey is still very much part of the story.

Off the pitch, there’s been some big progress too.

Our stadium upgrade has finally been completed, taking the capacity up to 6,000. Hopefully it won’t be long before we’re looking at another expansion if we keep climbing the leagues at this rate.

After a bit of persuasion, the board have also agreed to upgrade the training facilities, which is a huge boost. Keeping the infrastructure of the club improving behind the scenes is just as important as what happens on the pitch.

And the best part? We’re not drowning in debt… yet!

Financially things are still relatively stable, although you can already start to see the strain of League Two finances creeping in. Hopefully we can keep things under control as the club continues to grow.

Looking Ahead

With the additions we’ve made, I genuinely think we have a strong playoff push in us.

Of course, there are also three automatic promotion spots up for grabs…

Could we pull off something truly ridiculous and go Wrexham-style with back-to-back promotions into League One?

Let’s find out...

Season 3 – Time to Get Down to Business

Let’s start this update on the highest of highs — a true Football Manager dream. An ex-player returning to the club in a coaching role! After a short holiday away from the game, James McShane is back on the staff. Macca returning was right at the top of my wishlist this summer, so seeing him walk back through the door is a brilliant way to kick things off.

Now onto the real headline: a pretty mad transfer window.

With some of the older statesmen moving on and the need for a slightly bigger squad this season, there were always going to be changes. In truth though, not many players left the club. Casey Shann was the only departure that brought in a bit of profit, although he never really managed to make an impact during his year with us.

The real action came with the arrivals.

For the first time in a while, we’ve actually spent a bit of money — mostly to release players from contracts — but they’re deals I felt were absolutely worth making and they’ve significantly strengthened the squad. Here’s who has joined us this summer:

Billy O’Neill – RW/ST
A big-money move for a young Irish talent. He looks like he could be a huge addition and the fact he can also fill in up front makes him even more valuable.

James Olayinka – CM/CAM
More of a squad depth signing, but a solid one. He’s capable of linking the midfield to the attack nicely and adds another option in the middle of the park.

Maldini Kacurri – CB
An Arsenal prospect who will slot straight into our back line. I’m expecting him to be a regular starter for us this season.

Ted Curd – GK
Our new number one. I’ll admit I’m slightly cautious — he’s not the most experienced and perhaps not quite as strong as the scouts suggested — but between him and Plain I’m confident we’ll be fine at this level.

Maeson King – LB
A real standout addition at left-back. It wasn’t necessarily a position I was desperate to strengthen, but when a player of his quality becomes available it feels foolish not to take the opportunity.

Josh Robertson – DM/CM/CAM
One of the most exciting signings of the window. His versatility across midfield could finally allow us to shift into a more attacking 4-2-3-1 system.

Tyrell Ashcroft – RB
Another excellent addition who could be with us for years as we continue climbing the leagues. He’s outstanding for this level and completes a very strong back four.

All in all, we’ve built some fantastic depth again this season. It’s also great to still have Carter and Annesley holding down spots in the starting XI. The squad is packed with quality for this level, and we’re slowly but surely bringing the average age down too.

The media seem to like the business we’ve done as well. At the start of July we were tipped as 17th favourites for the title, but after the transfer window that’s jumped all the way up to 7th. Not bad going at all.

Financially, we’re now pushing the limits of our wage budget, but the club itself is in a really healthy position with over £2 million in the bank. With the increased wage bill we probably won’t be quite as profitable as previous seasons, but if things go well there’s always the chance we can cash in on some of these new signings further down the line.

And of course… new season, new kits! What do you think?

We’re already a month into our League Two campaign, so it’s time to see how Season 3 really unfolds.

Season 2 Ending – We Got There… Eventually

Well… here we are. The end of season two.

I need a second to breathe.

I genuinely do not think I have ever had a season like this. We were outstanding. Not good. Not lucky. Outstanding. And I would not even say we bottled anything. Sometimes football is just a game of the finest margins and this time we landed on the wrong side of them.

One hundred and two points... And we finished second.

How is that even possible. Carlisle, you have officially made an enemy for life. Mark Hughes, I will not forget this.

Despite hitting 102 points, we were forced into the playoffs. Brutal. The National League really does refuse to let you leave quietly. Thankfully, when it mattered most, we turned up. A 3-2 win over Crewe at Wembley sealed it. Absolute limbs. We are going up. Say we are going up!!!

As if that was not enough, we also secured back to back FA Trophy wins to round off the season. It was not always comfortable and there were moments where it looked like the wheels might wobble, but we got over the line again.

Promotion and silverware. You cannot argue with that.

The Team

Another season in the books and overall I think we managed the squad well across a long and demanding campaign.

There is a slight cloud on the horizon. Foulkes and Muitt are unhappy and want to move on. Their minutes did drop after Christmas which I understand from their perspective, but injuries played a huge part in that. It was never personal and it certainly was not by design.

On the pitch, Rutherford has been phenomenal once again. The goals have flowed and he looks more than capable of stepping up to the next level. Holland and Stutter were magnificent throughout, while Osborne quietly went about his business and delivered week after week. In truth, the midfield unit as a whole deserves huge credit. They carried us through some very tight games.

As we moved into April we reverted back to the 4-3-3. It suited Charlie Carter and Osborne perfectly and allowed us to rotate Vincent and Taylor through the middle. That tweak gave us fresh legs at exactly the right time and we finished the season strongly, particularly in the playoffs and the cup final.

When it mattered most, the system and the squad delivered.

The Club

Now we enter a summer that will define the next chapter at Dorking.

We are heading into territory the club has never experienced before and with that comes fundamental change. We are officially a professional club. That alone is massive. It is exactly what we need as we prepare for life higher up the pyramid. Marc White will be loving this from the boardroom, even if he is no longer the man in the dugout.

And he has not held back.

A one million pound transfer budget. A healthy wage budget. A 1500 seat expansion. A brand new grass pitch at Meadowbank.

Yes, it impacts the finances. Yes, it is probably a boardroom headache waiting to happen. But that is a problem for another day.

For now, we celebrate. We enjoy it. We say goodbye to McShane as he rides off into the sunset, and maybe just maybe there is a short trip to Ibiza before pre season begins.

Then we come back and try to turn the mighty Dorking into a genuine force in the professional leagues.

Season 2 - Mid Season Update: Built to Last or Built to Bottle

We are past the halfway mark in the National League and it feels like a good time to take stock of where we are.

Off the pitch there has finally been some movement. In the chaos of season one we may have neglected the finer details, so we are now officially studying for the National C badge. Progress. The board have also rewarded us with a new deal which feels like a proper show of faith. I would like to think it reflects not just the results, but the way we have been playing this season.

On a slightly less inspiring note, the youth intake preview was about as exciting as a goalless draw on a Tuesday night. No golden generation in sight. Maybe next year?

Results

The record so far reads 20 wins, 6 draws and 4 losses, and we are still alive in the FA Trophy. If you had offered me that in August I would have snapped your hand off without hesitation. Aside from a defeat to Hull in the FA Cup, we have been relentless.

The only issue is that Carlisle are not going away. There is very little margin for error and the National League is not a division you want to be stuck in. It is brutal, unforgiving and has a habit of punishing complacency. Promotion to League 2 would give us a real platform to build and develop properly as a club, especially as it would mean turning professional too. This league is a marathon, but every so often it forces you into an all out sprint just to stay ahead.

As it stands we sit top of the table. The goals are flowing and that attacking output could be the difference when the pressure really kicks in.

The Squad

Tactically we have tweaked things slightly to get the best out of the players available. The front three of Stutter, Holland and Rutherford have been absolutely clinical and are the biggest reason we find ourselves where we are. When they click, we look unstoppable.

We have just added Zach Awe, formerly of Arsenal, to strengthen the back line following Storey heading out on loan to Chester. The squad harmony is excellent at the moment, and I am very wary of doing anything that upsets that balance.

Injuries have been frustrating. Richards and Carter in particular have had awful luck which means we have rarely been able to name what we would call our strongest eleven. The positive is that the depth has stepped up. Everyone has contributed and no one has let the standard drop.

The 5-2-3 continues to be devastating going forward, even if it occasionally gives me anxiety defensively. Having that alongside the 4-3-3 gives us flexibility depending on the opponent, which could prove vital during the run in.

The squad is in a strong place. If we can avoid any major injury setbacks, there is every chance we can finish season two in style. Back-to-back automatic promotions would be some statement.

The only question is whether we see it through… or whether we end up joining the Arsenal support group for Bottlers... let’s see how we do!

Season 2 – The Renovation Begins

Well… here we are. Season Two kicks off and it genuinely feels like a reset button has been pressed at the club.

After lifting the league title and defending the FA Trophy, this summer was always going to be about evolution. The aim? Get younger, get sharper, and start closing the gap on the clubs above us — with an eye on League Two sooner rather than later.

Out With the Old (But with Respect)

It was time for some transition.

Moore and Prior — legends in their own right — have moved on. Both are still playing somewhere, somewhere, somehow sticking it to people two decades younger. Fair play to them. They gave everything for us, but the squad needed fresh legs.

Pybus and a few fringe players also departed. Nothing dramatic — just players who drifted out the door as we looked to reinvest.

In With the New

We finally started spending like a club with a plan:

Plain – GK
Our new number one. There’s talk about Foulkes still being “in the mix,” but Plain’s arrival certainly turns this into a genuine competition. I wouldn’t be surprised if minutes are split — and that’s good news for both.

Reid – DM
A proper midfield presence. Pybus was a big part of last season’s success, and Reid is here to slot into that role while giving us something a bit more dynamic.

Holland – RW
Young, hungry, and quick — the kind of winger we’ve lacked. Muitt won’t give minutes up easily, but this battle should be entertaining.

Osborne – CM
Another youthful addition with bags of potential. Taylor’s fitness isn’t perfect early on, so Osborne has started strong. If he keeps pushing, Taylor won’t be getting that spot back easily.

Ferdinand – CB
Third-choice for now behind Annesley and Storey, but a solid depth piece — especially useful if we go three at the back.

Stutter – RW/LW/ST
Chelsea youth product and one to watch. Versatile, direct, and someone who could be a fan favourite in time if his development continues on track.

McCalum – ST
Yes — P-Mac is here. A classic target man to give us aerial threat, hold-up play, and a presence in the box. The kind of signing that gets supporters buzzing.

Richards – LW/ST
Mainly a left winger who’ll rotate with Dennon Lewis. Quality if fit — injury record allowing, this could be an inspired addition.

Wilson & Shann – Youth Additions
Just what our U21s needed — young talent with potential. Not ready for day-one first team just yet, but good building blocks for the future.

Tactics & Starting XI

With Taylor managing his fitness early on, Osborne has grabbed the opportunity, and the wide players come straight into the XI. There’s a fresh balance to the team — energetic, adaptable, and far more versatile than last season. This isn’t a squad that’s just here to survive. There’s real depth and competition in every area.

The season feels like our kind of challenge.

Stability Still Key

Despite all the changes, we’re in a healthy place financially. We’re 11th on the league’s salary table, and we’ve got close to £1 million in the bank. Sustainable growth was always the objective, and we’re not just talking about it — we’re living it.

No reckless splashes. No destabilising contracts. Just smart additions and a long-term vision.

The Kits

And yes — before someone asks — the new kits are here. Home kit? Absolutely no changes. It was too good to touch. Away and third? Given a proper refresh. Sharp, modern, clean. And may I finally say — FM26, please, stop mixing up kits each gameweek. Let the boys wear the right shirt. We’re begging you.

Let’s Kick This Off

We’ve got an FA Trophy to defend, a new league to conquer, and a squad that feels ready to make some noise.

Season Two starts now. Let’s make it one to remember.

Season 1 – Champions, a Double, and a New Deal

Before we talk about the trophies, the ridiculous points total, or the goals flying in from everywhere, there is one key update. I have signed a new contract at Dorking Wanderers.

When I walked into Meadowbank at the start of the season, I arrived with no experience and very little reputation. It felt like a leap of faith for everyone involved. Marc White stepping upstairs and handing over the reins was a huge moment for the club, and there was always going to be pressure that came with that. For him to now offer me a new deal at the end of this season feels like real backing. It feels like belief. This is no longer a short term experiment. This is a project that has properly begun.

And what a first season it has been.

We did not just win the league. We dominated it. Thirty nine wins, four draws, three defeats, one hundred and twenty one points, and one hundred and twenty four goals scored. An eighty one goal difference. When you look at the table, it almost feels surreal. From early on there was a sense that something had clicked. The switch to the 4-3-3, which originally felt like a compromise, became the foundation of everything we did.

The shape suited the squad perfectly. The wide players stretched games and constantly delivered quality into the box. The midfield three gave us control and protected an experienced defence. The striker thrived with consistent service. We played on the front foot, pressed aggressively, and more often than not overwhelmed teams before they could settle. There were very few afternoons where we looked second best. Even in tighter matches, the belief in the system carried us through.

What makes it even more satisfying is how we achieved it. We did not sign a single player. No summer overhaul. No January panic buys. The same group that started pre season together finished it lifting the trophy. That continuity built chemistry, and that chemistry translated into ruthless consistency on the pitch.

The FA Trophy win only strengthened that feeling. League campaigns are about endurance, but cup competitions test mentality in a different way. Rotation becomes important. Squad harmony matters. Big moments define you. This group handled it all. Different players stepped up at different times, which sums up this season perfectly. Five players reaching double figures for goals tells you everything about how balanced this side has been. Assists have been shared around. Midfielders have contributed. Wide players have delivered consistently. It has never felt like we were relying on one individual to drag us across the line.

Looking at the squad page now, the spread of appearances stands out just as much as the goals. The core eighteen or so players have all played significant minutes. That depth, combined with very few injuries, made it easier to maintain momentum across both competitions. It never felt like we were running on fumes.

Off the pitch, things are just as encouraging. The finances are healthy, the wage structure remains sensible, and promotion gives us an opportunity to strengthen from a position of stability rather than desperation. Marc White has always built this club sustainably in real life, and it feels right that we are following that same path in this save.

Now the challenge changes. The National League is a step up in every sense. The opposition will be stronger, the margins tighter, and the physical demands greater. The big question is whether this group can rise again or whether evolution is needed to keep climbing the pyramid.

For now though, it is worth pausing to appreciate what has been achieved. First season in charge. League champions. FA Trophy winners. A new contract agreed. A clear tactical identity established.

The journey is only just beginning.

#UpTheWanderers

Season 1 – Midseason Update: A Change of Plan

(please note i've had an issue with my macbook so had to reset and restart! next few updates coming very soon!)

When I sat down to begin this save, I had a clear vision in mind: a 3-4-2-1, dynamic wingbacks, clever inside tens, and a system that would carry us all the way up the pyramid. It was bold, ambitious, and probably a little overcomplicated for where we are right now… But football management rarely sticks to the script.

After a full pre-season with the squad, it became obvious that forcing my preferred shape onto this group would mean breaking apart some of the club’s strongest assets. We simply had too many good wide players to ignore, and not quite enough depth in the wingback areas to make the 3-4-2-1 function at the level I wanted.

So instead of reshaping the squad, I reshaped the idea. We moved to a 4-3-3. It might not have been the tactical manifesto I promised in the last update, but it suits this group perfectly. It allows us to get natural width high up the pitch, press aggressively from the front, and protect an experienced back line with a more balanced midfield three. Most importantly, it lets our best players play in their best positions.

And here is the biggest surprise of all: I didn’t make a single signing. For a club expected to challenge at the top, that felt risky. But I wanted to see what this current group could do with a system built around them, rather than one imposed on them.

What followed has been… better than I could have imagined.

Results

In the league, we’ve gone 24 wins, 3 draws, and just 2 losses. Let’s just say this squad has plenty about it — what a start we’ve had!

We’re still in the FA Trophy, but the only downer is that we didn’t make it to the first round of the FA Cup. Some things just don’t change down at Dorking!

Honestly, keeping it simple — with minimal instructions and a formation that fits the team perfectly — has been all we’ve needed so far.

The Squad

Playing a 4-3-3 has given us plenty of rotation options. We have at least two players for each position, which means we can rest key men without losing quality.

The trio of Carter, Taylor, and Rutherford has been particularly dangerous, especially when you add Muitt and Lewis into the mix with their delivery. The main 18 or so players in the squad have all played at least 10 games each, which makes managing the season a lot easier — especially with the lack of injuries.

Five players already have double-digit goals, and another four are on double digits for assists. It’s a joy to see all the cogs turning so well.

Now it’s time to kick on for the rest of the season. Let’s keep flying and avoid any crash-and-burn scenarios!

Season 1 - Welcome to Dorking!

Here we are, first press conference at Dorking. It feels a bit over the top with more than fifteen cameras squeezed into a room that probably fits five comfortably, but I appreciate the attention. I arrive with no managerial experience and very little reputation, other than being the guy who has followed the club’s journey on YouTube for years. Now it is time to prove myself.

The fans will understandably be disappointed to see Marc White step away from the dugout. There is no reason to panic though because he remains upstairs in the boardroom and will definitely be watching closely.

Meeting the Team

Walking into the dressing room, the first thing that stands out is the amount of experience in this squad. We are not the youngest team in the league, but we have several long serving players who understand the club better than anyone. Alfie Rutherford and Charlie Carter in particular will be important if we want to push on and achieve what slipped away last season, which is promotion.

We do have long term injuries to Norville Williams, Pybus and McManus, so we need cover in those positions. We also lack depth in goal, at attacking midfield and at centre back. With some ageing legs at the back we will need to bring in younger players who can handle the demands of a long National League South season.

The tactic I want to use is a 3-4-2-1. This shape does not use wingers, so our wingbacks will be responsible for most of our wide creativity. Because of that, players such as Muitt and new signing Lewis might struggle to fit in and they could be moved on to create extra room in the wage budget. In the next update I will go through the transfer business we complete.

Board Expectations

The board has high hopes for us. They expect a promotion challenge and they also want us to make reasonable progress in the FA Cup, which would give us a helpful financial boost. With the right signings I do not see why these goals cannot be achieved, especially since the media predicts us as the second strongest side in the division.

Finances

Our financial situation is healthy. We are inside the wage budget and the club has a stable balance for this level. As long as we stay sensible during the summer window, we should be in a strong position to invest in the club later on if the season goes well.

That is the starting point for the save. Time to get into the summer window and see what deals we can complete before the season begins.

Up the Wanderers. The FM26 journey starts now.

After the highs, heartbreaks and drama of my last FM24 blog with TSV 1860 Munich, I am back again for a brand new long term challenge. This time we are swapping Bavarian beer halls for Surrey terraces as I dive into Football Manager 2026 with the mighty Dorking Wanderers.

Dorking’s rise through English football has been incredible in real life, but in FM26 they find themselves battling in the lower tiers once again after missing out on promotion last season. The club is still punching above its weight with modest resources although the squad is somehow expected to challenge for the title. The situation is tough and with Mr Dorking himself, Marc White, heading upstairs into the boardroom and handing over the reins, it feels like the perfect moment to jump in. This challenge has been calling for a while and I cannot wait to get started.

I learned a lot from my previous save, especially the importance of building a squad that can grow year after year and trusting the youth system much more than I used to. Last time things ended far too early. This time I am determined to see it through from start to finish, helped along by the accountability of writing this blog.

Objectives for this save

• Lead Dorking Wanderers up the football pyramid and reach the Premier League
• Win a major domestic trophy
• Establish Dorking as a top half Premier League club playing our formidable three four two one
• Build a strong coaching staff filled with club legends
• Develop a youth academy capable of producing homegrown players who become the core of the team
• Turn Meadowbank into a fortress and upgrade every part of the club along the way

There is no giant city rival to take down this time and no Oktoberfest crown to reclaim. The goal is just as ambitious though. I want to take one of English football’s most iconic modern non league stories and push it even further, hopefully with the famous bunch of amateurs crew following us around for the ride.

As with my previous blog, I will post updates three times per season

• Season preview and squad update on 1 September
• Mid season and post January window review on 1 February
• End of season round up on the final day of the campaign

And, keeping the tradition alive, I will try to get to a real Dorking Wanderers match this year and pick up a shirt to make the journey feel that bit more real.

If you are planning a Dorking save of your own or have taken them on before, let me know. I would love to compare stories and see how our careers play out.

Let the FM26 journey begin - Up the Wanderers!

Summer Transfer Window 2025: Building for yet another Promotion

With the new season fast approaching, the focus at New Dundas Park has been on strengthening the squad to compete at the highest level we’ve ever been at in the Cinch Championship. With the bookmakers making us 2-9 favourites for promotion, it was vital to ensure we had the depth and quality to justify that tag.

Transfers In: Free Agents Galore

Despite working with a limited budget, we managed to bring in a host of talented players on free transfers, bolstering our ranks without breaking the bank. Here’s a breakdown of our new arrivals:

• Killian Phillips – A dynamic midfielder who brings energy and technical ability to our midfield.
• Paris Brunner - A highly talented young winger with an eye for goal, expected to be a key attacking threat.
• Will Sweet – A composed centre-back to add depth to our defensive options.
• Jamie McCart – Experienced and reliable, McCart brings leadership at the back.
• Sergio Díez  – A versatile full-back who can provide width and defensive stability.
• Louie Barry  – Former Aston Villa wonderkid with electric pace and creativity.
• Barry Bannan – The marquee signing of the summer! A veteran playmaker with immense experience, set to be the heartbeat of our midfield.
• Marc Leonard – A technically gifted midfielder who will provide control in the centre of the park.

A solid mix of youth and experience, this batch of signings ensures we have the quality needed for a serious promotion push.

Our lineup looks a lot different from last season, but with the real quality we’ve brought in, it's going to be a super exciting season again!

Transfers Out: Raising Funds for the Future

While we focused on bringing in reinforcements, we also allowed some players to move on, generating a total of £135K in transfer fees, amazing when you compare that to the start of the save!

• Ben Paton to Dunfermline Athletic (£47.5K) – A good servant to the club, but it was the right time for him to move on.
• Javier Boñar to Real Unión (£26K) – A promising player, but one who wasn’t in our immediate plans.
• Claudio Osorio to Cove Rangers (£6.75K) – A squad player who departs in search of more regular football, he did really well for us but we just can't offer enough game time now!
• Liam Polworth to Falkirk (£55K rising to £71K) – A significant deal for us, allowing us to free up wages and reinvest in the squad.

Squad Outlook and Season Ambitions

With this mix of experienced professionals and exciting young talents, we believe we have built a squad capable of dominating the Championship. Barry Bannan’s arrival signals our intent, and the bookies’ faith in us suggests we are on the right track.

In other club news, the training facilities are getting a nice upgrade and sadly without being able to turn professional we’re throwing money at other areas of the club. We do need to work on our staff though so I'll be giving that an overhaul in the next few months.

The aim is clear – promotion to the Scottish Premiership. Let’s make history. Mon the Rose!

#FromRoseToRiches

Thanks mate! It's been a real good season and in all fairness its been one of my favourite saves ive ever done! We're not going too outlanding or throwing the club in long term debt. It's a great start and there is so much more to come!

Interesting to hear about your save, ive not been able to go professional either so im having to wait it out now and hope that the free deals can do well enough this year!

Bonnyrigg Rose: Dominance, Records, and Near Cup Glory

What a season. After securing promotion last year, we stormed through League 1 in dominant fashion, racking up 32 wins out of 36 games and finishing a staggering 29 points clear at the top. Our tally of 98 points was nothing short of sensational, proving that Bonnyrigg Rose isn’t just here to take part—we’re here to take over.

League 1 Champions: An Unstoppable Force

From the get-go, we set the pace and never looked back. The attacking trio of Ephraim Yeboah, Samuel Ntanda, and Leonardo Benedetti proved lethal, tearing defences apart with clinical finishing and creativity. Yeboah, in particular, was sensational, bagging crucial goals throughout the campaign.

Key highlights included:

• 8-0 demolition of Kelty Hearts in February—an absolute masterclass.
• 4-1 thrashing of Cove Rangers, showcasing our relentless pressing game.
• 5-1 victory over Queen of the South in the Scottish Cup Quarter-Final, proving we could turn it on in the big moments.

Squad Building and Development

Our squad of 23 has been perfect for this level, with a cup run alongside the league games we’ve not struggled with the depth and have been able to have some younger players coming in and not struggle at this level at all.

My loanees have been stars this year, super effective for the short time they are here, with Ntanda being so effective that he’s been it into the club favoured personnel page! Alongside Yeboah they added 76 goals to our team this year, so quite a large whole to fill next season If we cant get them back!

Scottish Cup Run: So Close, Yet So Far

Our dream of cup glory ended in heartbreak at Hampden Park against Celtic in the semi-final. Despite an early goal from Benedetti, Celtic’s class showed, and they edged us out 2-1. It was a bitter pill to swallow, but the run itself was a testament to how far we’ve come.

Looking Ahead: The Championship Awaits

With League 1 conquered, the Championship will be our next proving ground. Reinforcements will be needed, but this squad has already shown they belong at a higher level.

We’re finally building up the club with some improvements all across the board. Out finances are the best they’ve ever looked and we’re hitting our club vision each year so far. We’re also ahead of schedule but I’d imagine once we get to the top division we’ll then struggle to get up to speed, so we’ll take what we can at the moment with the back to back promotions!

The journey from Rosey Posey to European glory continues. We’re one step closer.

#FromRoseToRiches

January Transfer Window Round-Up

The winter window is shut, and we’ve made some smart moves to strengthen the squad while letting a few players move on. Here’s how things shaped up at New Dundas Park.

 New Arrivals

🔴 Bakary Sow (Free Transfer) – Former Sevilla youngster with plenty of potential. A pressing forward with solid physicals and good determination—if we develop him well, he could be a real asset.

🔴 Leonardo Benedetti (Free Transfer) – A versatile midfielder who adds experience and depth to the squad. Not the flashiest signing, but a useful one.

Departures

➡️ Amilcar Djau Codjovi → Nea Salamina (£9K, rising to £10.25K) – A decent fee for a player who wasn’t getting much game time.

➡️ Aaron Splaine → Peterhead (Free Transfer) – Limited opportunities here, so a move makes sense.

➡️ Paddy Martin → Elgin City (Free Transfer) – With our goalkeeping situation sorted, he moves on for regular minutes.

With the squad fine-tuned, it’s time to focus on the run-in. Can Sow prove to be a hidden gem? Will Benedetti be the steady presence we need? Time to find out!

#FromRoseToRiches

Mid-Season Check-In!

As the calendar flips to 2025, we find ourselves at the halfway mark of what has been a thrilling second season in cinch League 1. The journey so far has been filled with highs, challenges, and plenty of goals, but one thing is clear – We are now here to make a statement.

Dominating the League

After a fantastic start to the season, we sit top of the table with a commanding lead. 16 wins in 18 games, a +38-goal difference, and an impressive 49 points have put us in pole position for promotion to the Championship. The bookies had us as favourites, but even they might be surprised at just how dominant we've been so far.

Our nearest challengers, Airdrieonians, have kept up a decent pace, but with a seven-point gap between us, we’re in control of our own destiny. Further down the table, Clyde and Partick Thistle are scrapping for playoff spots, while Queen of the South and Kelty Hearts are battling to avoid relegation.

Key Players Stepping Up

Our success has been built on a squad that continues to exceed expectations. Ephraim Yeboah has been nothing short of sensational, bagging 21 goals already and proving to be the league’s most dangerous striker. Tadeo Moreira and Josh Giurgi have chipped in with crucial goals and assists, while Luke Young and Liam Polworth have controlled the midfield like the seasoned pros we looked to bring in at the start of the season.

At the back, Jack Kingdon and Adam Rasheed have formed a rock-solid partnership, ensuring we have one of the best defensive records in the league. James Hillson and Ovie Ejeheri have both been reliable in goal when called upon, giving us confidence in our last line of defense and especially more important as we seem to be picking up injuries in goal every other game at this point.

Tactical Tweaks Paying Off

Our tried-and-tested 4-3-3 system continues to work wonders, but I’ve also experimented with a 3-5-2 setup in tougher matches, giving us more defensive solidity without sacrificing attacking threat. This flexibility has allowed us to adapt and grind out results when needed, keeping our momentum strong.

Cup Runs and Extra Challenges

While the league has been our primary focus, we’ve had some exciting cup adventures as well. Our Scottish Challenge Cup run continues into the quarter-finals, and we’re still in the Scottish Cup with hopes of a potential giant-killing on the horizon. The one disappointment was our League Cup exit to Dundee, but lessons were learned, and it was a reminder that we still have work to do before we’re ready for the higher divisions.

We're now growing more as a club though so we're looking much stronger financially aswell as overall work at the club taking place to build up everything around us in hope that we can secure back to back promotions.

Looking Ahead This Season

With promotion in sight, the second half of the season is all about keeping our foot on the gas. We can’t afford complacency. The squad’s morale is high, the tactics are clicking, and the dream of back-to-back promotions is very much alive. I’ve got my National B license in place and looking to get my A license by the end of this year too!

Can we keep this incredible run going and book our place in the Championship next season? Time will tell!

#FromRoseToRiches

It is indeed! He's still young but seems to be a real quality player for this level! Ideal for being a loan for the year.

It's got off to a good start so its interesting to see the different in levels after the promotion not being as big as i first thought!

Season 2 Begins!

The dust has settled, the transfer window has seen its fair share of ins and outs, and now it's time to get down to business. After an incredible first season, we enter our second campaign in the cinch League 1 with momentum on our side and a squad that looks more than capable of making a mark at this level. The bookies have us as outright favourites at an astonishing 1-167 odds, but football isn’t played on paper – we need to prove ourselves on the pitch.

A Strong Pre-Season and Transfer Window

This summer has been all about reinforcing our squad without breaking the bank. In true Bonnyrigg fashion, we’ve stuck to free transfers and loans, ensuring we remain financially stable while adding real quality. The likes of Adam Rasheed from Torino, Jaden Heskey from Manchester City, and Samuel Ntanda from Sampdoria bring a mix of youthful exuberance and top-level potential to the squad. We’ve also added experienced heads in the form of Luke Young and Liam Polworth, who will provide leadership and control in midfield.

On the departures front, we bid farewell to several players who have served us well, including Declan Byrne and Kieran McGachie, both moving to Peterhead. These exits make room for our new  in the wage budget and ensure we have a squad balanced enough to compete at the next level.

Tactics and Season Ambitions

We’re sticking with our tried-and-tested 4-3-3 system, a formation that saw us dominate at times last season. The shape gives us defensive solidity while allowing our attacking players the freedom to express themselves. With a midfield trio capable of dictating play and a front line packed with pace and finishing ability, we should have enough firepower to trouble any team in the league.  I’ve found it very effective whilst easily being able to adapt it into a 3-5-2 for some of the tougher games too.

Our financial health is also in a good place, which gives us confidence that we can build long-term stability while continuing to push the club forward. We remain part time so we shouldn’t have huge costs going forward, but I do need to spend some time working on the staffing here so that if we do live up to expectations then we’ll be able to transition into the higher levels without needing a mass rebuild.

The Road Ahead

Our season is only just starting, and the anticipation is building. We know this league will be a step up from last season, but the goal remains the same – promotion. If we can get off to a strong start and build early momentum, there’s no reason why we can’t push for back-to-back promotions and continue our climb up the Scottish football pyramid. We're in a financially secure position (for the time being) and if we can have some level of success in the cup and the luck of a couple of high profile ties then we can look to improve this even more!

Now let's get going and stay tuned as we kick off Season 2 – the journey continues!

#FromRoseToRiches

From Rosey Posey to Promotion: Bonnyrigg Rose's First Season Recap

As the dust settles on our first season in charge of Bonnyrigg, it's time to reflect on a whirlwind campaign that saw us go toe-to-toe with Clyde for the Cinch League 2 title, battle through cup competitions, and ultimately secure promotion.

League Campaign – A Title Race for the Ages

With Clyde setting the pace early on, we knew consistency would be key if we were to challenge for the title. Despite a tough loss against them in January, our squad showed immense resilience, bouncing back with crucial wins against Dumbarton and Forfar. Our attacking trio of Josh Hinds, Amilcar Djau Codjovi, and Claudio Osorio were instrumental, consistently finding the net when we needed it most.

March and April proved decisive, with victories over Stenhousemuir, Elgin City, and Spartans keeping us in contention. However, a late-season slip-up against Stenhousemuir saw Clyde edge us out for the championship by just three points. Nonetheless, finishing 2nd with 76 points and going on to secure promotion via the playoffs is a fantastic achievement for the club in our first season and we are moving on up!

Cup Glory – Scottish Challenge Cup Champions

While our league form was strong, it was in the Scottish Challenge Cup that we truly made a name for itself. After navigating through the early rounds, we faced Hamilton in the semi-finals and emerged victorious thanks to an Aaron Splaîne masterclass.

The final against Partick Thistle at The Falkirk Stadium was a true test of character. We took an early lead through Ty Barnett, only to be pegged back twice. But in the dying moments, Amilcar Djau Codjovi sealed the victory with a dramatic 90+2’ goal, securing our first piece of silverware.

Key Players & Standout Performances

• Claudio Osorio (13 goals, 10 assists) – Our midfield engine, consistently pulling the strings and chipping in with crucial goals.
• Amilcar Djau Codjovi (15 goals, 6 assists) – Our talisman on the left wing, delivering in the big moments, including the cup final winner.
• Josh Hinds (17 goals, 2 assists) – A clinical forward who thrived as the spearhead of our attack.
• Aaron Splaîne (18 goals, 8 assists) – Our penalty king and midfield maestro, always reliable from the spot and in open play.
• Pharrell Williams (7 goals, 6 assists) – Not just a name to remember in music, but a key playmaker in our squad!

Tactical Evolution

Our tactical setup evolved throughout the season. Initially focused on attacking play with an aggressive high press, we adapted to include more controlled build-up play. The 4-3-3 system allowed our midfield to dominate games, while wingers Codjovi and Giurgi provided width and attacking thrust.

Defensively, Maldini Kacurri and Will Armitage formed a solid partnership, ensuring we remained tough to break down, conceding just 41 goals across the league campaign.

Looking Ahead – League 1 Awaits!

With promotion secured, the challenge now shifts to establishing ourselves in League 1. Reinforcements will be needed to strengthen the squad, and tactical tweaks may be necessary to cope with the increased quality of opposition.

The board has backed us, I have a new contract now in place and with momentum on our side, Bonnyrigg Rose is ready to continue its meteoric rise. The money is now in at the club but we're still fighting an uphill battle as we enter the league above! Can we push for another promotion next season? Time will tell, but one thing is for sure – this journey is just getting started.

Stay tuned for updates on transfers, preseason, and our League 1 ambitions!

#FromRoseToRiches

Mid-Season Review: A Title Race Heats Up & New Faces Arrive

Results: A Strong Run Keeps Us in the Hunt

With the season at its midway point, Bonnyrigg Rose continues to punch above its weight in League 2. Our recent run of results has been a mix of statement wins, hard-fought battles, and a few frustrating stumbles.

Some key highlights:

A dominant 5-0 thrashing of Montrose in the Scottish Challenge Cup – Amilcar Djau Codjovi and Aaron Splaine ran the show.

A thrilling 5-1 win over Stenhousemuir – A clinical performance showcasing our attacking firepower.

A crucial 2-1 win over Spartans – Pharrell Williams with the winner in a tight contest.

Despite a couple of narrow losses, the team has shown resilience, especially in the cup competitions.

League Standings: The Title Race Is On

After 21 games, we sit 2nd in League 2 with 42 points, just behind Clyde, who have been relentless at the top with 49 points. Spartans are trailing in 3rd, giving us some breathing room, but promotion is far from secured.

If we want to take the title fight to Clyde, we’ll need to stay consistent and keep the goals flowing.

Transfer Window: Strengthening for the Final Push

January has seen some key arrivals as we look to bolster our squad for the run-in:

Maldini Kacurri (CB, on loan from Arsenal) – A young, talented center-back who brings composure and defensive solidity.

Ben Cisse (ST, on loan from West Brom) – A powerful striker with pace, looking to add some extra firepower up front.

Michal Rosiak (CM, on loan from Arsenal) – A technically gifted midfielder who will help control games and provide creativity.

Claudio Osorio (RW/CAM, free transfer) – A skillful winger who adds depth to our attacking options.

Ben Paton (CM, free transfer) – A versatile midfielder with a strong work ethic and good passing range.

With these additions, we’re aiming to push Clyde all the way and—if nothing else—secure promotion by any means necessary.

The second half of the season is going to be a rollercoaster. Can we pull off something special? Stay tuned.

#FromRoseToRiches

Thanks mate! It's one of those things where the squad was pretty mid-level for league 2 but also with some of the wages it's safer to offload them now and try and bring in some decent youth and loan players. Would have loved to stay more homegrown but its near on impossible with the wages they are all looking for!

The semi-pro part works well with people seemingly happy to accept lower wages, but yeah if we do have success it's certainly going to add even more to the challenge when moving up the leagues!

Summer Transfer Window: Rebuild Mode Activated

With the transfer window now closed, it's time to break down the chaos of the past few months. Players have come and gone, wages have been balanced, and The Rose is looking like a whole new team. Have I built a squad capable of exceeding expectations? Or have I just signed a bunch of free agents for the sake of it?

The Departures: Saying Goodbye

It was a mass exodus this summer, with 10 players leaving permanently between the ones who left before and who i've managed to move on as well as two more heading out on loan. Some departures were expected, while others… well, let’s just say, Tranent has basically become our retirement home.

Notable exits:

• Kevin Smith → Cowdenbeath (Free) – A veteran who’s been around the Scottish lower leagues, but it was time to move on.
• Dean Brett, Scott Gray, Alan Horne → Tranent (Free) – A trio of players heading to the same club. I guess they just really love playing together.
• Cameron Forbes → Penicuik (Loan) – The young midfielder has great potential, but he needs regular game time at the moment. Hopefully, he develops well there.
• Smart Osadolor → Elgin City (Free) – A move that felt inevitable. Never really fit into my plans.

Losing some experience hurts, but let’s be real—this squad needed a shake-up.

The Arrivals: The New Faces of Bonnyrigg

Now for the fun part: the recruits. With a minimal budget, free transfers and loans were the name of the game. And I think we’ve done well.

Key Signings:

• Will Armitage (CB, Southampton – Loan) – A bit of a coup for us. Strong, quick, and should boss the backline.
• Pharrell Williams (Winger, Birmingham – Loan) – No, not that Pharrell Williams, but hopefully he’ll still make us happy with some assists.
• Ty Barnett (CM, Wolves – Loan) – Big potential. If he adapts to Scottish football quickly, we could have a real weapon.
• Josh Giurgi (RB/RW - Free) - A young attacking full back who seems way too good for this level. Great addition.

Are We Ready?

The squad looks stronger overall—better depth, better balance, and actual competition for places. But as we all know, new signings mean nothing if they don’t perform on the pitch.

Next up: the season begins. Can this squad gel quickly? Or will I be regretting some of these deals by Christmas? Stay tuned.

#FromRoseToRiches

With the latest news and the now even longer wait till the next iteration of FM I thought it was only right to clear the deck, go back to the original database and start a fresh save. Something slightly different whilst keeping some of the home comforts. I’ve tried (and failed) many saves over the past 6 months, losing interest after a season or two and even having a laptop crash on me most recently. Now we’re back in the game and I’m looking to make this my most committed FM save to date! So here we go…

From Rosey Posey to European Glory: A Bonnyrigg Rose FM Journey

The Beginning of a Scottish Fairytale…

Welcome to my latest Football Manager save—one that starts in the small Scottish town of Bonnyrigg and (hopefully) ends under the bright lights of the Champions League final. I’ve taken over Bonnyrigg Rose FC, a semi-professional side in Scotland’s League 2. The goal? Take this humble club from mid-table obscurity to the top of European football. Ambitious? Absolutely. Impossible? Not in FM.

Meet the Club: Bonnyrigg Rose FC

Bonnyrigg Rose Football Club— "The Rosey Posey"—has been kicking about since 1881, but only recently made the jump to senior league football. Right now, we’re valued at a modest £148K, and our squad is made up of part-timers. Our fortress? New Dundas Park—a ground that holds 3,000 fans (86 seated ha) and boasts a pitch condition officially rated as "Very Poor." Perfect for tiki-taka, right?

Board and Fan Expectations: Don’t Get Relegated (and beat Newtongrange!)

The board isn’t setting the bar too high, which is fine by me. The main tasks for this season are:

• Stay within the wage budget (easier said than done)
• Grow the club’s reputation
• Finish mid-table in League 2
• Be somewhat competitive in the cups

Meanwhile, the fans want to see some defensive solidity, good set-pieces, and, most importantly, a win if we ever come up against our local rivals, Newtongrange. No pressure.

Squad Assessment: Diamonds in the Rough (and Some Deadwood)

After my first deep dive into the squad, it’s clear we have some talent, but also some… let’s say, financially questionable contracts.

Key players to build around:

• Kerr Young (CB) – Solid, dependable, and one of the leaders at the back.
• Cameron Forbes (CM, 17) – Young, exciting, and has the potential to be a club legend.
• Dean Watson (AM, 21) – Skillful playmaker, could be a difference-maker in attack.

But let’s be real—this squad isn’t built for long-term success yet. I’ll need to cut costs, bring in fresh legs, and figure out a tactical setup that plays to our strengths. A 4-3-3 sounds like a solid base to work from, but I do like the idea of creating some 3 at the back formations to help us a bit more defensively.

So What’s Next?

The transfer window. This is where the real work begins. Expect plenty of ins and outs as I look to fine-tune the squad before the season kicks off.

Stay tuned for the next update once the window slams shut. Will we find some hidden gems? Will I regret my decisions immediately? Only time will tell. Let’s get this journey started.

#FromRoseToRiches