Summary
Football Manager 2024will enjoy a longer than expected run on Xbox Game Pass following the cancelation of this year’s installment. The popular sports management simulator has been a fan favorite since its debut in 2005. Initially launched asChampionship Manager, the series was later rebranded toFootball Managerafter the development team split from Eidos Interactive. Since then, it has evolved into a long-running franchise with over 20 mainline titles, withFootball Manager 2024being the latest addition to the hit series.
The franchise’s most recent installment was a massive success, earning high praise from both critics and fans. It surpassed 17 million lifetime players not long ago, making it the most played edition in series history. Known for its hyper-realistic portrayal of football management, the game allows players to control every aspect of team operations, from tactics to player transfers to finances. For many fans,Football Manageris regarded as one of thebest sports management simulators of all time.
As reported on the officialFootball Managerwebsite, the availability ofFM24will be extended on subscription platforms until the release of the next installment. These platforms include Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, and Netflix. Additionally, the game will remain available for purchase through Steam, Epic Games, the Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store, and Nintendo eShop until the end of the year.
Football Manager 2024 Will Remain Available Until FM26 Is Released
The site also mentioned that the decision to extendFM24’s availability came after consultation with various platforms and licensing partners. While not explicitly stated, the extension likely follows thecancelation ofFootball Manager 2025, as typically, a new edition’s release prompts the removal of the previous installment.FM25was scheduled for launch in March 2025 before being canceled a month earlier. The game’s developer cited the inability to meet its desired quality standards as the reason.
FM25was expected to introduce the most significant changes to the series in nearly two decades, including an upgrade to the Unity Engine, an overhauled match engine, and a refreshed user interface. Originally slated for release in November 2024, development challenges led to thedelay ofFootball Manager 2025until March of this year. However, after further setbacks, the game was ultimately canceled. This cancelation places added pressure on the developer to deliver big on next year’s installment, especially consideringFootball Manageris Sports Interactive’s flagship product and primary revenue source.
Despite the setbacks faced byFM25, theFootball Managerseries remains one of thetop sports games, particularly for its much-lauded career mode. For now, fans can continue enjoyingFootball Manager 2024until the next installment is released.
