(Chucks water bottle).
Football Manager 2025 Edition Canceled: Developers Shift Focus to FM26
After prolonged delays, the highly anticipated Football Manager 2025 edition has been canceled. The 2024/25 season roster update, which was initially planned for the 2024 edition, has also been scrapped. Instead, development resources are being channeled into preparing the next installment: FM26.
Developer’s Official Statement
Sports Interactive, the game’s developer, offered an official statement explaining this decision. According to their announcement on Twitter:
Sports Interactive regret to inform that, following extensive internal discussion and careful consideration with SEGA, we have made the difficult decision to cancel Football Manager 25. pic.twitter.com/tLRbq8305K
— Football Manager (@FootballManager) February 7, 2025
Challenges and Decision-Making
The cancellation comes after much contemplation. SI highlighted various challenges, both known and unforeseen, as reasons for the decision. The current state of the game was deemed unsatisfactory to meet player expectations.
Delayed Releases and Release Timing
FM usually debuts around November each year. FM25 originally faced a November release date, later shifted to March. Further delays would have extended the game’s launch beyond the 2024/25 season, rendering it practically obsolete.
Current Game Options
For now, enthusiasts can replay Football Manager 2024, which has been available for free on Steam since last July. Additionally, the 2023/24 roster featuring Bayern Munich provides a recent, engaging experience.
Bavarian Challenge
Interest remains high among Bayern Munich fans for FM24. Fans can revisit the strategic thriller of coaching the “Slim Reaper”—a moniker inspired by the team’s masterful defense under the legendary Guardiola era.