Football Manager is a game that is all about unearthing hidden gems and turning them into world-class players. While signing wonderkids with sky-high potential is always exciting, there’s something uniquely satisfying about turning an overlooked 2-star potential player into a first-team sensation. With the right training, playing time, and tactical setup, even an average prospect can develop into a star. But how exactly can you make this happen?
Most FM players rely heavily on scout reports, which often label players with seemingly low potential. However, these reports aren’t always accurate, as player growth depends on multiple factors, including personality and ambition. A player with only 2-star current ability and 3-star potential could still exceed expectations if developed correctly.
While some managers will take calculated risks in player development, others prefer the unpredictable, which is why online football betting remains popular, due to every match outcome shifting expectations. However, in FM, the key to long-term success lies in patience and planning. Developing a player in FM allows you to control what happens, such as their trajectory, making every decision impactful.
Training Schedules
One of the most crucial aspects of player development is training. Assigning individual training that complements a player’s natural abilities and areas of weakness is key. If a winger struggles with crossing, for example, setting them up for intensive crossing drills can improve their efficiency in attack.
Mentoring is another underutilised tool in FM that can shape a young player’s career. Assigning a senior player with strong professionalism and determination to mentor a youngster can help instil the right mentality, improving attributes such as work rate and composure. Also, balancing training intensity is crucial. If a player is pushed too hard without match fitness, it can lead to injuries that halt progress.
Loan Strategy
Not every youngster is ready for first-team football, so sometimes, the best way for them to prepare is to send them out on loan. However, not all loans are beneficial, especially if a club has poor training facilities or a tactical system that doesn’t suit the player’s strengths.
Ideally, loans should be to a club where a player is guaranteed to play regularly in a competitive league. Checking their performance via scout reports is essential, as it allows you to recall them if needed. A good loan spell can be transformative.
First-Team Exposure
Once a player returns from a loan spell or has developed enough, it’s time to integrate them into the first team. Low-pressure matches, such as the early rounds of domestic cups, are ideal opportunities to ease them into first-team senior football.
Using them as impact substitutes in the second half of matches can also be beneficial. This allows them to gain experience while minimising pressure, ensuring their confidence remains intact. Over time, as they show improvements, they can be given more playing time.
Every FM veteran has a story about a player who went from being a 2-star rated to greatness. Some of the best players begin with mediocre potential but end up flourishing under the right conditions. With patience, training, the right loans, and playing time, rough diamonds can be turned into world beaters.
