KyleWilkie - Comments

Season 3 – A Late Mid-Season Update!

With high board expectations and a substantial investment from the new owners, the pressure has been on for us to succeed at the highest level! So far, that’s exactly what we’ve been doing!

Results

Check out that sea of green in our league form! This update is a bit later, and we've already played 30 games in the league. As you can see, we are in top form! Our star man Young-Coombes has been scoring goals alongside the prolific loanee from City, Warhurst. With another strong back line, we are taking the league by storm and look poised to complete three promotions in a row! Even the games where we dropped points have been close, so we could be even better off this year!

You'll also notice a variety of goal scorers on that list. We've been able to spread the goals all over the pitch, even making the most of set pieces this year, which was a nice addition I wasn't expecting!

Of course, with results on the pitch going well, we sit at the top of the table with 16 games left in the season. More importantly, we’re 23 points ahead of 4th place, so I'd say we're almost guaranteed promotion now! We just need to keep fighting to secure the title…

Things in the cup have also been going well, with a loss to Crystal Palace in the EFL Cup being an acceptable result. We've exceeded expectations once again. The rotation in our 22-man squad means a lot of game time for the whole team, keeping everyone fresh and in good form. A highlight so far has to be the 6-2 win against Championship side Norwich. We played them off the park and secured a solid amount of money as we reach the end of the year!

A Couple of Moves…

With budgets tighter due to FFP, we've been strict with mid-season transfers. It's time to cash in on some players while their value is high and make some strategic acquisitions.

We say goodbye to Luis Brown, a club captain at one point. Unfortunately, he wasn't playing regularly enough, and it was time to move him on before his contract was up. We also bid a sad farewell to last year's top scorer Ruel Sotiriou, although £425K is a nice bit of profit. With the form of our other strikers, there were games he couldn't even make the bench, so cashing in was the right option.

Ryan and Onyedinma had dropped out of form, so I wasn't too fussed to see them go. Dudziak has gone out on loan to add some value before we cash in on the youngster in the summer.

With the five outgoings, we brought in four quality additions to the squad. Conor Bradley, the free transfer from Liverpool, is the right back of our dreams. Miguel Azeez, a star midfielder from Arsenal, joins us on another free deal. The first bit of cash was spent at Farnborough, and it's certainly worth it! Zach Robinson, rated as the best player in the league, was acquired for £99K in compensation. He can play on both wings and up-top, and I'm sure he'll be relied on heavily in our continued rise up the leagues! Finally, on deadline day, we added depth in the middle with another loanee from Man City, Charlie Gray. All four are quality additions that will help us not only push on this year but be solid players next season!

With all of that said, here's how the squad looks as we enter the final third of the season. We're a pretty settled squad as a whole, and with the new additions, we have an improved starting 11! I've started to train a more defensive formation that we can use in cup games, but as it stands, we have no need to change when we're doing so well!

Let's see how the rest of the season goes now!!

A New Chapter Unfolds – Season 3 Begins!

Season 3 marks the inception of a new era at the club, and we're thrilled to welcome you to the Baker Era!

In exciting news to kick off our first professional season, Jacob Baker has taken the helm, injecting both enthusiasm and financial support into the club. While the expectations are high, the influx of funds opens up exciting possibilities for us to strengthen our squad.

Transfer Season Highlights:

Our transfer budget has received a boost, with an additional £1 million generated, putting us in a robust financial position. However, navigating the player market posed challenges, with some demanding exorbitant wages. In response, strategic decisions were made to part ways with certain players and streamline the squad.

Thinning down the squad was necessary due to financial fair play rules in League 2 and League 1. Although tough decisions had to be made, the arrivals of new talents and some star studded loanees promise a stronger squad.

New Stars in League 2:

Meet some of our new stars set to make an impact in League 2:

• Ogunneye – RB – another young defender who comes in as the new starting RB
• Baptiste – CB – another leader at the club, only 21, but will be a star player for this year and beyond I’m sure
• McArthur – CB – I know him from his Newcastle time so took a punt on him to be a solid CB for us. Unsure how he’ll be but worth a shot.
• Boyes – LB – The first of our 2 new LBs, still very young and a solid backup for a more experienced head.
• Townsend – LB – A slightly unexpected deal but comes in as our best LB, with Championship experience the last 4 years and 32 years old, a solid addition and now club captain!
• White – DM – Only 22 and not much first team experience but fits both the DM and Mezzala roles we play!
• Leonard – DM – Love this signings, he can play anywhere in the middle, only wants to be a fringe player but will play a lot more than that.
• McMahon – CM – another 19 year old with solid quality to build up our new look midfield
• Rigge – CM (Loan) – Our first loanee who brings some top flight experience and looks to be an ideal Mezzala. Does have an injury that will keep him out to begin with though.
• Lawrence – CM/LW – a little risk taker at the end of the window, with him out of contract the Welsh international accepted our deal. Hes the highest paid at the club but hopefully he’s worth the money!
• McAllister – RW/LW – Currently can only play RM but training him up to be a squad player on the wings, again only 22 so nice and young with potential and value there.
• Young-Coombes – RW/ST – Will be a solid addition to play both on the wing and up top. Has played a couple of games for Brentford recently too and looks to be someone way too good for this level.
• Warhurst – ST (Loan) – A cheeky Man City loan can never be a bad thing! Solid striker with only £300 a week wages! Lovely job…

Favourable Odds and Aspirations:

With 13 new signings, we embark on the season with a drastically different-looking, secure, and quality-packed squad.

The odds are in our favour, as we are overwhelming favourites for the league title. And with the board aiming for promotion with a plan to reach the Championship within three years this is something we really need to be able to follow up this season!

Around the Club:

While the new board constraints limit staff additions, we remain optimistic about the team's development. A strong financial foundation, coupled with strategic dealings, positions us as one of the better-run clubs in League 2.

The goal is to capitalize on the bloated budget and strive for a remarkable third consecutive promotion in as many years.

Join us on this thrilling journey into the Baker Era as we aim to make a mark in the league and build a legacy at the club! #UpTheYellows #FarnboroughFC

Elevating to New Heights: Season 2 Triumphs Unveiled!

The green expanse of dots unfolding before us is a clear sign that it's time to revel in our success! Once again, we've dominated the league, embarking on an incredible winning streak. The numerous clean sheets underscore our winning streak, with players like Lowe, Sotiriou, and Onyedinma consistently scoring goals in the second half of the year and solidifying our top spot in the league.

Celebration is in order as we not only secured promotion but also clinched the league championship! Farnborough is set for exhilarating times at the highest level in its history!

Finishing the season with a staggering 37-point lead is nothing short of remarkable. We suffered only two defeats, drew three games, and boasted an impressive +115 goal difference. It's safe to say that this has been one of the best seasons, even in my Football Manager history!

And let's not forget the excitement of our cup runs...

It may sound unbelievable, and admittedly, I felt a bit dubious myself. Let's delve into our FA Cup journey.

A non-league team facing off against Coventry, Wolves, Blackburn, and Bristol City to reach the FA Cup Semi Final is quite generous. With our exceptional form in the league, I ensured our best 11 were on the field for each game. The run wasn't a mere scrape-through; we boldly faced higher division opponents and emerged victorious.

Our loanees proved their worth too, providing solid quality when needed. While Man City proved a formidable challenge, the unprecedented nature of our run is something to enjoy.

Winning the FA Trophy, especially against Torquay after last year's final defeat, adds another layer of triumph to our season.

Squad Overview

This squad has been a joy to work with this year! Not only did our starting 11 dominate in both league and cup matches, but we also had various options to rotate the lineup each game. Except for a few young players and a long-term injury to Williams, every squad member received ample game time and rest.

Lowe and Sotiriou scoring 35+ goals is phenomenal at any level. With six other players scoring 10+ goals and our wingers contributing with 22 and 11 goals, our tactics have proven highly effective.

Take a quick look at our standout players, Okonkwo and Sotiriou!

Club Transformations

With news of our promotion, emails flooded in detailing changes around the club.

Firstly, we are now transitioning to a professional status—a significant achievement as we aim to nurture a young squad on a limited budget while ascending the leagues.

More good news follows as we embark on upgrading our stadium to comply with league rules. Works are underway to install additional seats at our venue.

Unfortunately, just days later, we learned that our chairman is stepping aside, with new owners poised to take over. While investment is welcomed, it's bittersweet to part ways with those closely tied to the club. The summer will reveal if any deals come to fruition.

Despite these changes, a fantastic cup run has left us with a healthy £2.4 million in the bank as we enter the professional game, where costs are set to rise significantly.

Even with a comfortable financial buffer, we have a modest budget upgrade for the upcoming year. Despite all players currently on part-time deals, negotiating new contracts at £3000+ a week for everyone will quickly deplete our budget. Expect a few strategic signings to bolster the squad and challenge for the next level!

#UpTheYellows #FarnboroughFC

Season 2 – Mid Season Update

Let's kick off this latest update with some positive news on two fronts! The board has appreciated the excellent work we've been doing during our tenure, rewarding me with a new contract extension until the end of next season.

Moreover, we've strengthened our solid relationship with the board and seized the opportunity, successfully requesting and receiving approval for an upgrade to our training facilities. While the cost amounts to a hefty £750,000, it's a worthwhile investment for our club's development, making it a prudent decision to proceed with the upgrade.

Results…

Results-wise, we've had a remarkable start to the season with just one loss and three draws. It's safe to say that our team has performed exceptionally well, dominating the league even more than we did in the previous season. Goal-scoring machines Sotiriou and new loanee Nathan Lowe have played pivotal roles, contributing significantly to our success.

Maintaining a smooth rotation has been crucial in keeping our players happy and avoiding major injuries. However, despite our on-field success, we're facing challenges in attracting large crowds, something to keep an eye on as we progress up the leagues.

With victories piling up, we currently lead the Vanarama National League with a healthy points margin and games in hand. As we aim for little changes, the hope is to maintain this momentum and clinch some trophies by the end of the season. Our ongoing participation in cups serves as both a financial boost and an opportunity to distribute playing time across the squad.

A Couple of Changes…

In terms of roster changes, a successful season always brings about some discontent among players seeking more game time. Consequently, we've let go of Madelin and Djau Codjovi during the winter window, not for a substantial amount of money but to avoid contract expiration issues. Additionally, we've loaned out a few youngsters to ensure regular playing time and reduce the wage bill.

Regarding incoming transfers, most of the activity occurred in the first couple of months of the season. Donacien, an experienced defender versatile across the back line, and Nathan Lowe, a promising young striker on loan from Stoke, were early additions. Recently, we've brought in Joe Williams, an experienced holding midfielder, and Fred Onyedinma, considered a first-team player for a League One team, adding strength to our squad. Also, even with these changes we have still yet to spend a fee on a player which is a nice postive.

As I gear up for the remainder of the season, I appreciate your support and hope to return with some silverware, potentially securing Farnborough's place in League 2 for the first time ever!

Season 2 – Silly Season is upon us…

Season 2 has arrived, and it's being dubbed as the "Silly Season" for us at Farnborough. We kick off the season with what can only be described as sheer madness. The doors of our club have swung open and shut countless times over the summer, resulting in a new ensemble of players who, despite being considered loose ends, have joined forces to give us a solid chance at securing back-to-back promotions. Let's delve into the notable moves that have unfolded.

Transfers Out

On a positive note, we managed to generate £140,000 in the summer, and there's more to come from the sale of Cesay. I adopted a strategy of accepting deals with substantial value to reinvest in our main eleven this year.

This approach led to the departures of players like Jack Turner, Goran Babic, and Paul Watson. Most of them were seeking new contracts, making it prudent to part ways before committing to undeserved high wages.

Additionally, Saied, Kacurri, and Hammond were loaned out for the season, with the hope that they gain valuable game time and return ready to contribute to the squad next year.

Transfers In

We've made a whopping 14 additions, including three loans and no transfer fees paid. These signings complement the four Arsenal youngsters we secured at the end of the previous season. Here's who we brought in:

• Hillson – GK – our new no.1, being brought in the replace Turner and still only young.
• Daniels – GK – Our final signing of the year, just to back up Hillson for when we need him.
• Brown – CB – Solid CB and a leader too, has the potential to be first team captain for years to come
• Denham – CB – Our new partner to play alongside Brown, Hasn’t played much in the last 2 years but an academy product of Man Utd so looks like a good addition.
• Oyegoke – RB – A new member of the defensive team, will probably be more of a backup to our new loanee
• Acheampong – RB (on loan) – Brought in at the end of the normal window and is now our star right back. Only a 6 month deal at the moment though.
• Haunstrup – LB – One I know well from his Pompey days, a great addition to play both LB and RB here
• Smith – DM – Our most experienced player at 33 years old. Played plenty of league one football at Derby last year so a good addition
• Djedje – DM (on loan) – One of my favourite signings this summer, has never had first team experience but on paper he’s got the ability to be a real star for us at this level.
• Orford – CM (on loan) – our first loanee, really good depth for the midfield trio.
• Peupion – RW – A more experienced winger from the league above, a great addition to this young squad.
• Ryan – LW – Another Arsenal youngster with bags of potential but not much to show for it at the moment
• Kamwa – RW – Another winger to add to the collection, with 37 apps last year in league one for Burton, I cant see how we’ve got him at this level… but we’ll take it!
• Sotiriou – ST – The new leading man after being let go by Leyton Orient. Scoring 25 in 115 games isn’t great but he looks like a real steal on a free move for us.

This influx of talent results in a 22-man squad, combining skill and experience at a higher level than ours. Remarkably, we've managed to keep our highest wage under £1000 per week too.

Only Paton, Barnett, Pendlebury, Madelin, and Djau Codjovi remain from last year, raising concerns about squad consistency in the initial months.

Media and Expectations

Despite potential squad challenges, the media is lauding our efforts, pegging us as favourites for promotion. The stakes are rising.

Around The Club

Club upgrades and requests for development from the board are underway. The backroom team is expanding, promising positive growth in the seasons ahead.

In the midst of all these changes, we've managed to retain £1 million in the bank, signalling prosperous times for The Boro.

Now, the anticipation builds as we aim to see if these moves will translate into success in Season 2, marking our return to the Vanarama National for the first time since 2005.

#UpTheYellows #FarnboroughFC

Season 1 – Farewell Vanarama South

Before we delve into the details, here's some personal news: a new deal has been secured, ensuring our presence here for the foreseeable future! Although the pay increase is modest, it's good to receive early support from the board.

Results

Reviewing the remaining league games, we experienced just two additional defeats, one of which occurred on the last day when we fielded the youth team. Notably, contributors like Brooke, Kolli, and Higgins played pivotal roles in securing victories. Our defense held strong, conceding only 10 goals in the final 15 games—a commendable performance.

This success of course translated into promotion as champions of the Vanarama National League South!! Wooooooo!

With an record-breaking 121 points and a goal difference exceeding 98, we dominated the league, outpacing competitors by at least 12 points and clinching promotion with a remarkable 25-point lead! Cheers to an exceptional season!

Regrettably, our impressive cup run concluded with a narrow loss to Torquay in the final. While disappointing, especially in a cup final, the lack of quality on the day, coupled with a 1-0 defeat a month after the league season, tempers the disappointment slightly.

The Squad

Now, let's recognize the squad that propelled us to glory this season! The consistency of a settled squad is evident, with each player in the back line playing nearly 40 games. Remarkably, we also avoided major injuries, a considerable advantage given our smaller squad size.

I was able to secure Ben Paton towards the end of the season to fortify our midfield trio, a move that paid dividends with some crucial goals. Scoring prowess proved vital too, boasting five players with 15+ goals, and leading man Rayan Kolli notching an impressive 54 goals!

Unfortunately, QPR sees Kolli as League One material, preventing a return on loan next season. Despite this setback, I'll persist in negotiations for sure. Kolli's stellar performances, surpassing his target of 16 goals, make him an invaluable asset.

Looking Ahead to Next Season...

Our ascent up the leagues has granted us a more substantial budget, totalling £233K. This financial boost enables us to strengthen our squad for the challenges of the next level, with a focus on maintaining a top wage below £1000 p/w.

Already, we've started making moves, establishing some sort of unspoken connection with Arsenal. Kacurri and Rosiak, promising young defenders, join our ranks, along with Dudziak, a reliable CM set to replace departing loanee Brooke. Additionally, Benjamin, a young striker, is poised to contribute in a rotational role. A solid start to the summer window!

Now, it's time to embrace the sun, savour a couple of piña coladas on the beach, and gear up for a summer transfer season!

Season 1 – Mid-Season Update

It's hard to find the right words to express our current situation – it's beyond what we could have hoped for!

Since day 1, we've been flying high, currently on an impressive streak with just 1 defeat and 4 draws. Dominating the league with a sturdy defense, featuring standout performances from our mezzala’s Pendlebury and loanee Brooke, along with the formidable presence of Kolli leading our attack, we've established ourselves as a top-tier team.

Surpassing my initial expectations, our early success can be attributed to our efforts in retaining key players during the January transfer window. With less than half the season remaining, we find ourselves in a promising position.

Despite our exceptional start, we've only managed to pull 5 points clear at the top, with Yeovil hot on our heels. Recognizing that only one team is guaranteed promotion, we are fully aware that maintaining our peak performance is crucial for the remainder of the season.

Noteworthy is our prolific goal-scoring record of 102 goals so far, with Kolli showcasing his goal-scoring prowess. Our aggressive 4-3-3 formation ensures an all-out attack in every game, complemented by the best defensive record, making it challenging for opposing teams to break through.

Our success extends beyond the league, with exciting cup runs underway. Advancing to the 5th round of the FA Trophy and reaching the third round of the FA Cup, where we faced Arsenal, may have ended in a 4-0 defeat, but such experiences are invaluable at our current level, evident in the positive impact on our finances.

Dipping our toes into the Transfer Market

While the lower levels may not have traditional transfer windows, we’ve been keeping a keen eye on potential moves, especially during January. Clearing space for potential incoming players meant parting ways with Cullen, Young, and Perez, who were seeing minimal playing time. The departure of Norville-Williams, though planned, was annoying due to the modest £2.2K fee and player discontent. Despite the setback, such decisions are inevitable at this level of part-time contracts.

Although January didn't bring any eye-catching prospects in the scouting reports, we made moves beforehand. Djau-Codjovi, a versatile winger, joined the club, offering depth and complementing Saied and Higgins effectively.

Reeves and Kenlock arrived on non-contract deals to provide cover during injuries, with Kenlock already making appearances at left-back and Reeves securing a starting role in some games.

With only 13 league games left, I'm gearing up for a rapid chase towards the title. Stay tuned for the next update!

Season 1 – Summer Transfer Recap

Our squad overhaul is off to a promising start, although we did face financial constraints. To boost the club's funds, we focused on strengthening the starting 11, parting ways with fringe players to allocate more money to higher-quality additions.

Notable departures include Robinson and Ball, whose wages were redirected to reinforce other positions. While I won't delve into every move, these moves left us with just 15 players. It was a necessary step to reshape the squad for the upcoming challenges and I think we’ve been able to do that pretty well!

We swiftly secured several free transfers and a few loans, keeping our expenses at bay.

The new squad now includes:

• Hammond – GK – A reliable backup for Turner.
• Madelin – CB – A key addition to our starting lineup.
• Armitage – CB (Loan) – Though lacking first-team experience, he looks like he could show promise with consistent game time.
• Watson – CB – An experienced signing capable of playing right back when needed too.
• Barnett – LB – Unexpected, but brought in due to high interest in Norville-Williams.
• Otseh-Taiwo – RB – A cost-effective depth piece for the backline.
• Cesay – RB/CM – A versatile player, capable of contributing in defense or midfield.
• Brooke – CM (Loan) – Secured after weeks of effort, offering goal-scoring potential in that mezzala role!
• Babic – CM – Added depth to navigate league games and cup runs, untapped potential maybe?
• Higgins – RW (Loan) – A bonus loan, strengthening our right-wing options and probably get a lot of game time.
• Kolli – ST (Loan) – Impressive start with four goals in four games, sharing the workload with Folivi could be pivotal for us!

The Squad Now…

With only three players remaining from the original Farnborough squad in the starting 11, our approach to have league success is clear. The attacking line appears solid, but the revamped backline is particularly noteworthy, potentially ranking among the league's best.

Despite having a young squad, the added depth positions us as strong contenders. We've climbed from 5th to 3rd in the season preview, indicating a promising season ahead.

Now, let's dive into Season 1! #UpTheYellows #FarnboroughFC

Welcome to The Boro...

Here we are, embarking on day 1 at Farnborough FC. After a quick 10-minute drive to the stadium, we kick off at Cherrywood Road (now known as the Saunders Transport Community Stadium... catchy, right?).

Starting fresh in any new journey is always best when building from the ground up. That holds true here as we assess the staff. Currently, we have only 4 part-time members, with the remaining 3 on non-contract terms.

I plan to make adjustments gradually throughout the season to avoid unsettling the team too early. The goal is to bring in experienced personnel and staff members who can accompany us on our journey up the leagues.

The Squad!

Here's how our squad looks on day 1, but it's important to note that these players might not last for too long. While some will stay, expect significant changes this summer. Non-league football is characterized by a constant influx and outflow of players between clubs.

I have my eye on a few key players like Jack Turner, Seliem Saied, and Oliver Pendlebury, aiming to secure long-term deals with them. They definitely possess the potential to play a substantial role in the lower divisions and beyond.

Our team will be shaped around a 4-3-3 formation that has brought success in this year’s game for me. Playing 2 mezzala's in the middle allows them to roam freely and contribute offensively. The plan is to reinforce the midfield with goal scorers while establishing a solid back line capable of performing at this level and beyond.

After a successful first season in the Vanarama South, the board now expects us to maintain good form and aim for the playoffs, which seems quite achievable. While cup competitions aren't a top priority for the board, a decent run in them can bring in extra funds to support the club.

Additionally, the board encourages the recruitment of U23 players, a goal well within reach. However, I anticipate some semi-retired players making occasional appearances as well…

Lastly, let's take a look at the club as a whole. There's a substantial amount of work ahead to reach our desired position, but that's all part of the journey. With a pre-season prediction of 5th place, our aim is to start strong and push for promotion in season 1!

#UpTheYellows #FarnboroughFC

The Yellow Brick Road: A flight from Non-league with Farnborough FC.

Having recently bought a new laptop, the time has come to dive into a non-league to legend series. Following a format reminiscent of the well-known Lollujo series, I've started a new save with a team situated in the lowest division, closest to my home – none other than Farnborough FC!

Commitment to a Team…

Unlike the conventional journeyman approach, I find joy in fully committing to a single team from the start of a save. In this case, my plan is to mould Farnborough FC into a powerhouse, standing by them through the highs and lows. Despite a tumultuous past, including going into administration in 2007, the team is currently on an upward trajectory.

A successful first season in the Vanarama South has set the stage for a squad geared to contend for the playoffs. The presence of rivals like Aldershot and Woking in the league above adds an extra layer of motivation.

Personal Connection..

This journey holds sentimental value for me, as I played for their original team, Farnborough Town FC, at the youth level for a couple of years. I’ve also played numerous games at Cherrywood Road so have already established a nostalgic link to the club.

Main Aims of the Save…

To maintain focus and a sense of purpose, I've outlined several goals for this journey:

• Establish a home-nation-based team, particularly during the rise through the leagues.
• Keep expenditures to a minimum, emphasizing the belief that building a solid team in England doesn't necessitate significant spending. Free Agents are our friends.
• Develop the youth academy so we can seamlessly integrate homegrown talent into the squad each season.
• Retain some players throughout the entire non-league to legend journey.

Short-term goal: Secure victory in the FA Trophy before leaving non-league.

Long-term goal: Win the FA Cup before reaching the Premier League (Yes this is a super challenge)

Ultimate goal: Construct a squad capable of clinching both the league and Champions League titles simultaneously.

While this is undoubtedly a long-term save plan, I envision it continuing until the release of FM25. The allure of a non-league journey and the gradual ascent up the leagues is simply irresistible and I’m ready to get started!!

#UpTheYellows #FarnboroughFC

Season 3 – Diligent Effort in the Bundesliga

At the midway mark of the season and with the January transfer window behind us, we find ourselves still battling but exceeding expectations. Our aim now is to sustain this momentum and firmly establish our position in the top division this season.

Our Progress So Far...

We started the season with a solid start, clinching 6 points out of the first 12 available. This was commendable for a team predicted to face relegation. While we displayed prowess in scoring goals, our major setback lay in our defense, which seemed porous and vulnerable. Every highlight reel seemed to feature threats on our goal or misplaced passes at the back, highlighting a need for bolstering our defensive depth.

This urgency led us to explore the free transfer market, a real positive in Germany allowing us to register acquisitions at any time. The first reinforcement was Joe Rodon, a seasoned leader from Tottenham who instantly became the linchpin of our defense. Additionally, a tactical shift to a 5-at-the-back formation was implemented to fortify our defense while maximizing counter-attacking opportunities. Soon after, Tommy Doyle and Taylor Harwood-Bellis, both former City youth players, were brought in as a holding midfielder and another centre-back option, respectively. Their arrival injected quality into the team, significantly aiding our journey leading up to the January window.

Despite fluctuating results, a noticeable improvement emerged in our defensive solidity, reflecting positive progress due to the integration of these new additions.

League Standings...

Twenty games into the season, we currently hold the 9th position—a significant achievement considering there's still ample room for growth. With the recent January signings, our squad now possesses greater depth necessary for competing at this elevated level. However, this progress required bidding farewell to some beloved players, an inevitable aspect of rapidly achieved success in this game.

Transfers: In and Out...

Regrettably, to accommodate the higher demands of the Bundesliga, we had to bid adieu to three reliable squad players: Ferguson, Mai, and Chalobah, who had contributed significantly in our initial seasons. Cuisance's discontentment due to Tommy Doyle's arrival prompted a swift decision to part ways before his dissatisfaction affected team dynamics. Rey and Soonsup Bell's stint with us didn’t pan out, leading to their departures on loan, freeing up space and wages for potential youth prospects.

Additionally, Greilinger, a long-serving homegrown talent, opted to move on for more playing time elsewhere as his level no longer matched the league's demands.

These departures amassed £1.5 million in fees, complemented by an additional £4 million in transfer budget and £100K in wages, empowering us for further acquisitions.

Following the earlier free transfers, our squad received substantial reinforcements, addressing the depth deficiencies that plagued us at the season's onset.

• Sarriegi - A promising youth talent with immense potential, scouted as possessing a 5-star upside.
• Alberto - Another highly talented prospect with a 5-star potential rating, a valuable youth addition.
• Tromp - A significant investment at £7.75 million, an 18-year-old versatile player excelling as a CAM and on the wings, breaking our transfer record.
• Jaeckel – Secured on loan to fortify our defense, providing crucial experience at this competitive level.
• Handel – A surprise free acquisition identified through scouting reports, bringing solidity to our midfield alongside Doyle/Maitland-Niles.
• Rodriguez - A crucial addition to our attacking lineup, costing £6.25 million, expected to amplify our goal-scoring capabilities based on his prior success at Lecce.
• Mourino and Terracciano – Deadline day loan signings to provide added depth in defense and midfield, respectively, serving as contingency plans against potential injuries.

Another point to note, is the extreme improvement in our staff. There's plenty of contracts up this summer too so we'll be upgrading even more when we can...

Financial Power.. or Lack Of It!

Despite these signings, we remain at the bottom of the wage table, facing a considerable gap to bridge. The aim, if we maintain our league status, is to gradually increase our financial flexibility to further nurture our growth and development over the coming months.

Let's continue our relentless pursuit and secure our position for another year of challenging yet rewarding Bundesliga football...

Season 3 – Pushing Boundaries...

After consecutive promotions, we've reached the Bundesliga and now face the daunting challenge of securing our place in the league. This season promises to be far more demanding than the last two, but it's precisely the kind of test we've geared up for. Our aim? Cement a spot among the top contenders for years to come.

Eliminating Debts

Starting the year on a high note, the club is in its healthiest financial state in over 25 years, having cleared all outstanding debts. This financial boost before the new season kicks off should propel us toward the next level of competition.

Despite the influx of money and our strategic moves, the outlook isn't too optimistic. Odds at 800-1 sound like a fairy tale akin to Leicester's improbable feat...

Transfer Season… or the Silly Season!

Although the board gave us some funds, they were absorbed entirely by player wages to meet their demands for new contracts or in our pursuit of free signings. Consequently, we had lots of discontented players, seeking unreasonable pay hikes that had to be offloaded to save morale!

While Attipoe's departure for £2.4 million seemed promising on paper, receiving only 10% of the transfer income to reinvest in the squad dashed hopes for substantial upgrades. Mane and young talent Ziereis also departed due to triggered release clauses, albeit with a bit more negotiated profit from their exits, which is always a positive.

Players like Walbrecht, Kurt, Guttau, Bell Bell, Kasten, Rekik, Tchimbembe, and John-Jules were unwilling to compromise on wages, leading to their departures—mostly on loan deals with obligatory fees for the following year.

This churn of players yet again highlights the harsh lessons in managing contracts upon entering the Bundesliga, even if relegation is on the cards this year.

Yes, we've done it again—welcoming 15 new faces, with 14 now part of the first-team squad, all for a mere expenditure of £750K! While not a resounding success, these acquisitions should bolster our chances this season.

• Belman – GK – By far the best keeper we’ve had, quite small but hopefully a solid starter.
• Desler – RB – Probably the best player at the club now, a real strong option at RB if he can stay fit
• Soares – LB – Portuguese left back with top level experience in Portugal, Spain and Greece.
• Scales – CB – Took a bit of a punt here, with little experience but has played in the champions league with Celtic.
• Cresswell – CB – (Loan) – Solid addition at CB, on loan for the year but looks like he has a lot of potential.
• Maitland-Niles – RB/CM – (Loan) – Steady players that will cover pretty much anywhere on the pitch. Love a player like this in the squad.
• Veloso – CM – £300K – Hopefully will grow into a star player, only 20 years old and will get lots of experience this year.
• Rey – CM – Solid holding midfielder who will rotate a lot of the year.
• Iliev – CAM – Great having him in the team full time, hope to build on last year’s success.
• Rene-Adelaide – RW/LW/CAM – Will mostly play in the middle but has the potential to cover all across the front 3.
• Soticek – LW/RW – (Loan) – HE’S BACK! Another loan but will be looking to see if I can bring him in full time at the end of this year for sure!
• Okugawa – RW/LW – £450K – Our highest fee spent and he’s 29! Plenty of experience at this level and much needed when we are so out of our depth.
• Archer – ST – (Loan) – Last minute signing I finally managed to push through, will lead the line for us and will look to be the one to keep us up for sure!
• Soonsup-Bell – ST – A great youth addition that has started the season well, need him to be a big help from the bench this season!

Revamped Squad...

Our lineup for the Bundesliga showcases a mix of formations, with a potential shift to a 4-3-3 to bolster our defensive stance. While our attacking front appears solid, defensive challenges loom large, warranting extra support wherever possible. The squad boasts depth, including promising young talents ready to step in when needed, albeit with a slight overspend of the wage budget.

Despite exceeding our wage budget, we remain the league's lowest spenders by a significant margin. The financial gap between us and the big spenders is stark—£10 million against £199 million. It's undeniably a tough battle ahead.

Club Progress

The focus during the summer leaned more towards players, but now with the season underway, a substantial upgrade in staff becomes imperative. This enhancement should foster the club's growth and establish a sturdy foundation for our future…

Remarkably, we're now a financially robust club! This achievement bodes well for our long-term prospects. With current spending well below our financial capacity, successfully beating relegation this season could position us favourably in the coming years.

Now the battle to stave off relegation is upon us... Let's get to it!

Season 2 Finale - Watch your backs Bayern... 

So here we are, the end of season 2! At the start of the season we knew we had a reasonably good squad and even though the board only expected us to battle for relegation I think we all knew we could do a lot more!

Results…

Throughout the season, our squad significantly strengthened, thanks to key additions during the January window. The return of the "sea of green" in 2025 spurred us forward, and the contributions of Soticek and Borkowski exceeded expectations. While losing Jovic was disappointing, Borkowski's performance as his replacement brought satisfaction.

As we approached the season's end, there was a noticeable decline in goal-scoring, a common occurrence during a title charge. Our cup journey, culminating in a narrow loss to Stuttgart in the semi-finals, added to the excitement of a fantastic run.

And now, the climax we've all been waiting for…

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS! Back-to-back promotions mark a significant achievement and a real milestone for the club!

The final table reflects our dominance, securing the league victory by a remarkable 9 points. A surge in March propelled us to a new level of performance.

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is our success on a modest budget compared to our league counterparts. Kudos to the entire team for a job well done!

The Squad…

Looking ahead, we bid farewell to some key players and loanees, though our squad remains somewhat in one piece. Players like Kurtulus, Faye, Mainoo, and Wilson, while not returning immediately, have made a lasting impact. A special mention goes to Iliev, now acquired on a free, whose 16 goals and 7 assists played a pivotal role in our success and hopefully will do the same as he takes the step up with us!

You can also see Celina popping up with 14 goal contributions and even Tchimbembe getting in on the act! Katterbach also caught the eye and made the team of the season along with a few of our loanees, so he’ll be another to watch next year!

Here’s a snippet of what Celina and Iliev look like as star players for us right now…

Looking ahead to the struggle of the Bundesliga…

As we gear up for the next season in the big leagues, the board has granted us an additional £50K in wages and £2.5 million in a transfer budget. Despite budget constraints, exciting times await, possibly linked to our new stadium.

The real challenge begins as we strive to build a squad not only capable of competing against relegation but also instilling hope in our fans and establishing ourselves in the Bundesliga. The journey continues, and we'll do our best to navigate challenges and leave our mark in the top tier.. let's have it!!

Auf geht’s ins 1860 München!

Season 2 – Mid-Season Update...

As the winter break comes to an end, it's time for a mid-season rundown. We've reached the end of January 2025, and there have been some significant developments in our squad…

Our financial performance as a whole has earned us a boost in budget for the remainder of the year, courtesy of the board. This comes in handy for contract extensions and securing star loans during the winter transfer window!

Additionally, we've inked a new deal that extends our tenure until 2027—a testament to the commendable work we've continued in Season 2.

Results So Far...

Surprisingly, the 2. Bundesliga hasn't been as challenging as anticipated! Our struggles have largely stemmed from difficulties in scoring rather than other factors. Transitioning from dominating games to conceding leads in the final moments has been a learning curve at this higher level. Nonetheless, the team's rapid cohesion has allowed us to hit the ground running! Starting the season with a 7-1 win isn't a bad way to kick things off, right?

Wilson, Iliev and Jovic have been pivotal, supported by players like Guttau and Tchimbembe. Among them, Bersant Celina has stood out as our star performer, delivering exceptional performances and clutch moments. Securing him for the long term is a real bonus as we continue to build.

As things stand, we're comfortably at the top of the table with just one loss so far. However, despite our solid performance, we maintain a mere two-point lead. Our defensive strength, conceding only 16 goals, is the pillar of our success and the foundation we need to push forward in 2025. However, the recent January window might impact our pace at the top.

Our cup journey has seen success, albeit scraping through several rounds. Nonetheless, we'll gladly seize any victory and ride this wave of good form for as long as possible!

Transfer Window and Release Clauses...

This winter, we fell prey to a release clause, resulting in the departure of Nemanja Jovic to Mainz for a minimal fee of £2.1 million. Losing a key player due to contractual oversights is frustrating, leaving a significant gap to fill.

Conor Coventry also bid farewell after a promising start to the season, although his form declined, prompting acceptance of any reasonable offer. Ferguson and Greilinger, with limited playing time, ventured out on loan to aid their development. Rexhaj isn't a priority, but Vega, a youth prospect, is loaned out after being signed in the window.

With the funds from Jovic's sale, we made some notable acquisitions. Dennis Borkowski, secured for £86K from RB Leipzig, instantly replaces Jovic and possesses significant potential despite his age. A minimal fee of £4.3K was spent on Vega, identified as a 5* potential prospect in our scout report. At 16, he'll qualify as a homegrown player upon arrival in the summer.

We delved into the free agent market, adding Michael Cuisance and Willian to bolster our squad. Cuisance fills Coventry's void and, at 25, promises longevity, while Willian adds depth to our forward line until the end of the season. Consequently, Housni loan ended early and he’s back at PSG due to limited playing opportunities.

Finally, on deadline day, we secured a potentially outstanding player, Marin Soticek, on a free loan from Milan. He's already perceived as a standout talent and could be instrumental in maintaining our lead at the top this year!

With these unexpected changes, re-establishing our best eleven might take time. Let's see how we adapt; perhaps, we can aim for that surprise back-to-back promotion!

Auf geht’s ins 1860 München!

Season 2 - Double Promotion, Anyone?

And here we are, entering Season 2, back in the 2. Bundesliga! The club underwent a major transformation over the summer, with nearly the entire staff being replaced. A revamped coaching team stands alongside me as we embark on the next level of German football.

To illustrate the success of our summer, consider this: on July 1st, we were predicted to finish 17th. Now, we find ourselves here!

I must say, that's some pretty good business!

Some Goodbyes…

Regrettably, even before the transfer window opened, we bid farewell to one of our key players, Sokratis, in defense. His retirement came at an opportune moment, but it's still sad to see him leave. Despite the potential to be a valuable squad player, he retired before getting a chance with us.

This summer, we managed to generate £825K from player sales, all of which went straight into wages. This is a significant amount for a team making the transition from the third division in Germany. The bulk of the sales came from squad players of the previous season.

This year, I noticed that some players tend to create issues when there's interest in them. Rather than disrupting the club dynamics, I chose to let them go.

While the departure of players like Starke and Leitner was disappointing, especially given their roles last year, their impact on the team dynamics outweighed their contributions. The rest of the departures, mostly squad players, won't have a substantial impact, considering the caliber of players we've brought in for the new season.

Meet the 2024 Team!

With 10 players leaving, it was crucial to ensure we had enough depth for the challenges ahead, and we certainly achieved that. Welcome the 21 new additions to 1860 München!

Among them, Wadau, Riedel, and Torres are youth prospects brought in to strengthen our B Team and create healthy competition.

Let's break down the signings by position:

In Goal...

• Kasten: A young goalkeeper backing up Hiller, starting the season impressively.

Defenders...

• Mai: A solid German national with versatility in the back line.
• Rekik: A 22-year-old prospect capable of playing across the defense.
• Mane: A promising young right back transitioning between the first and second team.
• Katterbach: A young prospect competing with Bell-Bell for the starting left-back position.
• Ferguson: A versatile player covering all defensive positions.
• Faye (Loan from Barcelona): A potential wonderkid seamlessly fitting into our backline.
• Bell-Bell: A late addition providing depth in the backline, likely to get substantial playing time.
• Kurtulus (Loan from Inter): Delighted to bring him back, now with added versatility at right back.

Midfielders...

• Tchimbembe: Back in the fold after a successful loan season, offering versatility across the pitch.
• Celina: Ex-Man City player adding star quality as a left-winger.
• Coventry: A new central midfielder joining a robust midfield unit.
• Chalobah: A defensively minded player complimenting another potential wonderkid.
• John-Jules: Ex-Arsenal prospect filling the role of an attacking right-sided winger.
• Mainoo (Loan from Man Utd): A last-minute addition adding class to our midfield.

Forwards...

• Iliev (Loan from Inter): Primarily an attacking midfielder with the ability to play up top.
• Housni (Loan from PSG): Brought in as the main striker, providing depth.
• Wilson (Loan from Aston Villa): Expected to be our leading man, a young talent with scoring ability.

How The Squad Looks…

With a complete squad overhaul, we enter September with many new names. However, players like Attipoe and Jovic maintain their fantastic form, remaining integral to the team. The core players left from 2023 include Hiller, Guttau, Hahn, Greilinger, Attipoe, and Jovic, signaling ample work ahead on the training pitch.

Despite the significant changes, we still boast the lowest wage budget in the league. This indicates not only an improved squad but also a responsible approach to financial management. Hopefully, this sets a positive tone for building over the next 2-3 years. Check out the £18.56 mill Werder Bremen are spending by the way! Maybe some day we'll be lucky enough...

The Backroom Team

Finally, our new backroom team looks promising across the board, poised for growth in the coming year. While I'd love to add a set-piece coach, I'm content with the building blocks we've added this year.

Now, it's time to dive into Season 2 in Munich!

Season 1 – Establishing Foundations and Achieving Targets…

As we conclude the season, we reflect on our journey so far! Following a successful transfer window in January, we charged into the rest of 2024. Although we faced a setback in the DFB-Pokal against Leipzig, a team of their calibre proved a formidable challenge, and overall, we can't be too displeased.

The league results, marked by a sea of green, indicate that we progressed as planned. Despite some injuries, bolstering the squad in January allowed us to navigate challenges effectively. Noteworthy in the latter part of the season was the outstanding performance of Jebbison and Jovic, both displaying remarkable class for this level of the game.

The table speaks for itself…

CHAMPIONS!!! Claiming the championship with a staggering 16-point lead is truly impressive.

Yes we really managed to do it, and in some style! With 96 goals scored and a 53+ goal difference being the key factors. Our solid defensive line throughout the year contributed significantly to our success.

Although we had concerns about the reliance on seven loaned players at the end of the season, we are confident in addressing potential gaps during the upcoming transfer window.

Regensburg and Dynamo Dresden were formidable opponents, staying competitive until we pulled away in the final months so hopefully we can battle with the higher quality teams next year too.

What adds to the impressiveness of our achievement is our 17th rank in the league for salary per annum. This underscores the excellence of our squad building and bodes well for the future. With an additional £30K wage budget and £600K to spend, the foundation is set for further progress.

Our lineup at the season's close reveals strong partnerships and numerous green performance indicators. Securing key players like Kurtulus and Walters will be key for us to continue to build. Tchimbembe, who will return next year thankfully, is crucial as well. Sadly we wont be able to bring Jebbison back so a new striker is now top of the wish list for us. Overall this squad really showed its overall quality and I’m super happy with how it all turned out. Jovic finished top scorer in the end but Starke, Jebbison and Guttau all finished just 1 behind on 16 (Things we love to see!). Id like to try and bring in a more German core next year and maybe some older guys for that extra bit of experience as we hit the next level for the first time since the 2016/17 season!

While there's work ahead to strengthen the squad, the board's expectation to battle for relegation suggests that we have a solid base to build upon.

Now, let's eagerly anticipate the developments in the summer transfer window!

Auf geht’s ins 1860 München!

January Window Update

The January transfer window was busier than expected for the club, with more moves than hoped for. This inevitably affected results in the short term, but with the window now closed, the club is hoping to get back to business.

Not on the list to start with is Ludewig, who suffered an injury that will keep him out for five months, so he was recalled by Salzburg. This was a blow as he provided cover at both left and right back.

The pre-agreed transfers of Tarnat, Steinhart and Lakenmacher went through on the first day of the window. With all three players kicking off at one stage or another about their contracts, or lack of new ones, it wasn't worth the hassle and damage they could cause to the squad. We cashed in on them for nearly a combined £100K.

In the most gutting move of the year so far, Verlaat was allowed to leave after he agreed a pre-contract with Heracles Almelo. We managed to squeeze £300K from them though, which is a good sum of money at this level and can be used to reinvest in contracts down the line. Its so annoying to lose a player of his calibre but id rather be able to have some money to show for it rather than seeing him leave for free in the summer, so in the end I think it turned out okay for us considering the circumstance.

And finally Rieder, who originally wanted to go out on loan, but the club decided it was best to cash in on him now as they were never going to be able to offer him the game time he wanted.

In terms of incomings, Ragnar Klavan was brought in as a direct replacement for Verlaat. He is 38 years old but is here to plug the hole for the time being. He is an ideal ball playing defender for the club but this did mean that our back line was Klavan and Sokratis, so i began to search for a more agile and pacey partner to join him.

Reuell Walters, on loan from Arsenal, was next through the door. This versatile defender can cover all across the back line for the club. I loved him in FM23 as he is still so young and can grow into a solid first teamer over time. He will be thrown in at the deep end and will probably play most weeks as he has taken up the role Ludewig was playing before he left.

On deadline day, we finally found the player they were looking for, Edvin Kurtulus! The 23 year old really shouldn't be playing at their level but they do love a good last minute loan deal! He slots in perfectly to their back line and is now the rock at the back we've been looking for. He can use both feet and has lots of experience for someone of just 23 years. So we’ll certainly be looking to extend this loan for future seasons no matter what happens this year.

And finally we were able to sneak in that one little bonus loan in the shape of Samuele Vignato from Monza. Best played at CAM, the 20 year old has already played 15 games in Serie A this year and was available as he looks for more game time. He's an ideal player to slot in and share the game time with Starke as he is aging a little.

Now it's time to kick on with the season and hope the club can push for at least a playoff place this season!

Season 1 - December - Progress Report

Kicking off the season update, we're thrilled to announce a significant shift in our club, highlighted by the introduction of a new board, marking a comprehensive overhaul of our leadership. This transformative change holds substantial implications for the entire club...

It might not be common knowledge, but 1860 Munich has faced considerable challenges under the ownership of Hasan Ismaik, who, under Germany's 50+1 rule, has exerted control for over a decade. While he may have rescued the club from extinction at one point, his prolonged influence has left a lasting impact. The burden of an unpaid loan, a mere £51 million in the game, serves as a tangible reminder.

However, in a positive turn of events, the new regime has ousted him from the club, offering a glimmer of hope reflected in the revamped debts and loans page

This development is genuinely remarkable and bodes well for the club's future. Kudos to Marlon!

Signs of a promising football team are emerging…

As we reach January 1st, the season has gone rather impressively! Glancing at the results, the page is predominantly green, with a few red marks scattered. Despite facing challenges, particularly in our forward line with injuries and an ever-changing lineup, we've managed to secure positive results and integrate younger players seamlessly into our squads.

With all considered, we find ourselves comfortably atop the league with a four-point lead. While injuries haven't derailed us yet, caution is warranted as some players are set to move on in January.

And let's not overlook the cup games... I'll leave that for you to check out!

Squad Updates

Reflecting on the squad midway through the season, you'll notice some strategic additions as the months unfolded. Sokratis, initially brought in to cover early defensive injuries, has become a crucial member of the starting XI. Leitner joined the squad to compensate for impending January departures, while Hahn recently joined to bolster our forward line after a series of injuries. A homegrown talent from Germany, Hahn brings top-flight experience from last year.

Adapting well to the 4-2-3-1 formation, our squad has found stability. Starke, excelling at CAM, currently leads as the top scorer. Jovic remains a standout player, integral to every game. With a squad of 14/15 players, forced rotation has proven beneficial thus far.

We are still navigating interest in Verlaat, hoping to retain him as one of our key players.

A Change is Coming…

As we approach January, significant player departures are already planned. Several players either refused contract renewals or demanded wages beyond our means. After securing available free deals, we aim to enter the winter window in a strong position, with little need for extensive additions…

Season 1 - Summer Transfer Window Concluded…

Beginning with player departures, it has been a challenge to retain the core of our squad. Star players Verlaat and Vrenezi, whose contracts run until 2024, declined offers for extended deals.

They both came to me to say they were leaving at the end of their deals, prompting my decision to maximize Vrenezi's transfer value. Losing a player of his caliber is annoying, but I opted to capitalize on his market worth. This will enable us to reconstruct the squad with free agents and loans for this season. Verlaat agreed to a £400K deal if an offer materialized (fortunately, it did not), providing me with more time to try and convince him to stay.

All loan moves include optional future fees, and I'm open to allowing them to either continue or be released at the conclusion of their contracts. Overall, the squad clearing process has been quite successful, creating additional room for the influx of young talent and quality players.

As you can see, we've welcomed 9 new players to strengthen the squad, technically 8, as Kilo will initially feature in the B team. Consequently, I've transferred a few promising young talents from our original squad to the B Team, ensuring they receive the necessary playing time to develop.

Here's a brief overview of our new acquisitions:

- Bramback - Goalkeeper - A promising young talent already at backup level for us, aiding in fulfilling the quota for 4 under-23 players in each squad.

- Revivo - Left Back - (Loan) - A quality left-back with impressive attacking abilities, likely to be a regular in the starting XI as we look to move on some of the older squad members.

- Attipoe - Right Back - A reliable option and a guaranteed starter. Completes the defensive line after already having strong central defensive depth.

- Walbracht - Central Midfielder - Another promising youth player set to feature in most games and contributing to the under-23 quota.

- Tchimbembe - Central Midfielder - (Loan) - A standout player for us, secured on a decent wage with no additional fee. Although young, he's going to be the linchpin of our midfield.

- Strieder - Central Midfielder - A homegrown talent from Germany and the oldest signing we made. Bolsters our midfield depth and is likely to feature prominently when available.

- Jovic - Right Winger - A superstar free transfer, still in his early 20s. He's already making waves on the right flank, serving as an excellent replacement for Vrenezi.

- Jebbison - Striker - (Loan) - Not a player I initially sought, but when i saw he was available for loan, he stepped in as our starting striker, injecting more pace into our attack and allowing for versatility in our forward line too.

With all of that being said, here's how our starting XI looks as we get into the season...

I'm very happy with the deals we've been able to close, resulting in a formidable 23-man squad for the upcoming year. I'll continue to monitor the market in the weeks following the window closure, in case any potential stars become available on a free transfer. If I do identify any prospects, I will certainly bring them on board!

Now, it's time to kick on with the season, and I'll return with an update in January following the next transfer window!

Auf geht’s ins 1860 München!

Season 1 – Taking Over and Preseason Challenges…

There's nothing quite like delving deep into your squad during the initial hours of a new save, bypassing the need for the space bar and meticulously assessing each player. This is precisely what I've been doing!

Upon inspecting the squad, I've noticed a significant turnover in real-life, which means we'll need some time to acclimate to the new team and sort out any gaps through summer signings. Fortunately, we have a generous £6,000 left in the wage budget, and by offloading a few players, we should have ample room for deals.

Here's our squad as of July 17th, the first day of the save.

We have 11 players with contracts expiring at the end of the year and one player on loan. I'm eager to secure deals for both Vrenezi and Verlaat, as they will play pivotal roles in the team and the club's future. Additionally, we have Greilinger and Knoferl, both products of our youth academy, whom I'd like to retain for as long as possible. I'll be working on these deals before diving into any transfer business.

We have a solid base of a team here and I think we’ll just be fine tuning a lot of these areas this summer which is a very promising start! It’ll be interesting to see how it all comes together!

My plan is to provide a squad update at the end of the summer transfer window, then we can kick on with the season!

Board & Supporter Goals

For our first season, we have received quite reasonable objectives from the board, which I believe are attainable in the long run. By the end of the 2025-2026 season, they expect us to secure a promotion, and with a few additions, we might be competing even sooner.

I've learned from past experiences, especially in FM23, about the challenges of managing wages when promoting players from the second team. So, maintaining our wage budget or having some room to manoeuvre is essential.

The one-year contracts for players aged 33 and above may be frustrating, but they do prevent us from signing aging legends towards the end of their careers so maybe they know me a little too well.

Staff

Unfortunately, our coaching and staff setup is not currently in a favourable state, and I don't anticipate significant improvements in the near future. While I'd love to make substantial changes now, it seems like a waste of resources for the time being. I'll fill in the staff positions where possible, preferably with one-year contracts. Next summer, we can undergo a massive overhaul, bringing in club icons and utilizing a new feature in 2024 of helping train and develop our staff.

Also, there's currently no room for a set-piece coach, so it appears that I'll have to work some tactical magic myself!

Now, it's time to dive into the summer transfer window and kick off the season! As mentioned earlier, I'll provide a transfer update at the end of the window, and then we'll embark on our first season.

After a promising return to the Bundesliga in my first blog of FM23, our dreams were crushed when a broken pc and corrupt save file disrupted our success. However, I've decided that the time is right to reignite the Battle for Oktoberfest and commit to this long term challenge for this series!

TSV 1860 Munich currently languishes in the depths of German football, burdened with a staggering £43 million of debt and a squad expected to merely maintain a mid-table position. Nevertheless, this challenge beckons, and I'm eager to get started!

Having made an attempt at this challenge last year, I've gathered valuable insights on how to navigate the depths of German football, especially concerning the potential for youth development which I hadn’t relied on much last time. More importantly, last year's endeavor ended in failure, so it's time to turn back the clock and start afresh.

Here are my objectives for this save:

- Climb the divisions and secure a Bundesliga victory

- Achieve consecutive Bundesliga titles.

- Elevate TSV 1860 Munich to the top spot in Munich.

- Build the best backroom team of ex players and grow them as coaches

- Create the best youth academy in Germany.

Before I proceed, I must mention that surpassing Munich's impressive tally of 32 trophies may be a tall order, but as they say, stranger things have happened!

Expect regular updates at the start of each season – on the 1st of September, 1st of February after the window clsoes and the final day of the season, keeping everyone well-informed and engaged. And, as is customary with long-term saves, I’m aiming to attend one of their games this year as well as being on the hunt for a shirt, adding a personal touch to this epic adventure!

If you're also considering embarking on an 1860 Munich save, feel free to reach out. It would be interesting to compare our journeys!

Auf geht’s ins 1860 München!