Football Manager 2026 enters its beta phase on Thursday, October 23, offering early access to players who pre-purchase the game through participating retailers. This pre-release version, referred to as Advanced Access, arrives approximately two weeks ahead of the full launch scheduled for November 4.
The FM26 beta introduces a wide range of updates, including a new game engine, redesigned interface, expanded customization options, and significant tactical changes. It also marks the first time the series includes licensed FIFA competitions and a fully integrated women’s football experience.
FM26 Advanced Access Details
Advanced Access is available to users who pre-order FM26 via platforms such as Steam, Epic Games Store, and select retailers. Historically, beta access has launched 14 to 20 days before the official release. This year’s October 23 date was confirmed by Sports Interactive following a leak via Epic Games, aligning with previous patterns.
Bowen and Owen Showcase FM26 Gameplay
To mark the beta announcement, Sports Interactive hosted a 90-minute live playthrough featuring content creator Spencer Owen and West Ham winger Jarrod Bowen. Owen took charge of West Ham United and managed three matches: a 1–0 win against Brentford, a 2–2 draw away at Leeds, and a 2–0 victory over Newcastle.
Bowen participated in the first two fixtures, playing as his virtual counterpart and scoring goals in both matches. The duo experimented with tactical setups, including repositioning Bowen from his usual winger role to a central striker. The session offered viewers a practical look at FM26’s new tactical flexibility and match engine improvements.
Studio director Miles Jacobson also joined the stream, describing FM26 as the beginning of a long-term evolution for the series. He emphasized that the game’s new architecture and systems are designed to support future innovation across multiple editions.
The full video can be found on the Football Manager YouTube channel here:
Transition to Unity Engine
FM26 is the first title in the franchise to run on the Unity engine. This transition enables improved graphics, smoother animations, and more realistic match-day presentation. Player models and stadium environments benefit from higher fidelity, and the match engine now incorporates motion captured from real-life football scenarios.
The new engine also supports enhanced customization features, including a rebuilt Manager Creator and upgraded rendering for Newgens. These changes contribute to a more immersive and visually consistent experience across platforms.
Manager Creator and Game Setup
The manager creation process has been redesigned to offer greater control over appearance, background, and coaching philosophy. Users can select from over 30 presets and refine facial features, body type, and clothing with expanded tools. Apparel textures and skin details have been upgraded, and camera angles during customization now provide a more natural perspective.
Players begin by choosing between Quick Start and Advanced Setup. Quick Start streamlines club selection and basic settings, while Advanced Setup allows full control over playable leagues, nations, and game rules. FM26 introduces new licensed competitions including Serie B BKT, ADNOC Pro League, and A Lyga.
The backstory builder enables users to define their managerial credentials, including prior roles in coaching, recruitment, media, or officiating. These selections influence starting reputation, coaching attributes, and in-game tendencies, which evolve based on career decisions.
FM26 Tactical System Overhaul
FM26 introduces a dual-phase tactical system that distinguishes between in-possession and out-of-possession formations. Managers can assign different roles to players depending on the phase of play, allowing for more nuanced control over team shape and strategy.
Scouting reports now evaluate players based on their suitability for multiple tactical roles. Visual guides help users understand how formations translate on the pitch, and tutorials are recommended for those unfamiliar with the new system.
This update represents the most substantial tactical change in the series since its inception, requiring managers to rethink traditional approaches and adapt to a more dynamic style of play.
Redesigned Interface and Workflow Tools
The user interface has been rebuilt around a portal and tile system, improving navigation across squad management, tactics, transfers, and scouting. A universal search bar and built-in encyclopedia (FMPedia) streamline access to information, benefiting both new and experienced players.
Bookmarks adjust based on screen size, and the search function behaves more like an intelligent assistant, helping users locate features and data efficiently.
Integration of Women’s Football
FM26 includes 14 women’s leagues from 11 countries, with full integration into the game world. Managers can choose to lead men’s teams, women’s teams, or both. The Women’s Super League is fully licensed, and competitions are designed to mirror the structure and presentation of their male counterparts.
This expansion reflects Sports Interactive’s commitment to inclusivity and realism, offering new career paths and strategic challenges.
FIFA Licensing and International Management
A new partnership between Sports Interactive and FIFA introduces officially licensed tournaments to FM26. The FIFA World Cup, FIFA Women’s World Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup will feature authentic kits, broadcast graphics, and branding.
An updated international management module will be released in a future content update for FM26, FM26 Console, and FM26 Touch. FM26 Mobile will include this module at launch. The update will allow managers to lead national teams through major tournaments with enhanced realism and strategic depth.