Football Manager 26 has finally arrived, and fans are extremely excited to embark on their managerial careers. Alongside the game’s fresh Unity engine and some new leagues that have been added, fans are also assessing the various clubs they can manage. For many players, the MLS is a good place to start.
Of course, Premier League clubs and Spanish behemoths also appeal, but for managers seeking a more unique challenge, America’s biggest football league stands out. A country where the NBA and the NFL dominate and playing online craps and other iconic casino games found in Las Vegas is attractive, Major League Soccer has some work to do. For managers looking to lead the charge and change the state of the game in the country, taking control of a prestigious American team understandably appeals. However, it won’t necessarily be easy.
Not only are you competing with some of the beautiful game’s biggest clubs with huge budgets, but you’ll also have to deal with salary cap limitations, your most promising youngster being snapped up by a European giant, and managing the use of Designated Players. Overall, though, it’s a test many managers relish taking on, particularly if they’ve already taken charge of numerous Serie A clubs and Premier League sides. With that in mind, below is a brief look at five of the best MLS teams to manage in FM 26.
Inter Miami
Inter Miami feels like a good place to start when assessing the finest MLS teams to manage in FM26 right now. David Beckham’s new franchise has Lionel Messi to rely on; there are big plans in place to ensure they dominate American soccer for years to come, and although you’ll have to initially deal with a smaller player budget than some other MLS clubs have to work with, so many players want to play alongside the legendary Argentine. An MLS side with huge potential, Inter Miami might be the perfect club for you.
Chicago Fire
If you’re wanting to turn the fortunes around at a big American team, then Chicago Fire is a club worth looking at. Not only does the team possess some real talent within its ranks, but everyone associated with the club is craving success after failing to win competitions like the MLS Cup for years now. With passionate fans behind the team and great pulling power for an American side, Chicago Fire is a good option here.
Seattle Sounders
A club with a big following behind them, expectations are quite high at the Seattle Sounders. Former Rangers star Ryan Kent is arguably their finest player in the game, although you’ll probably need to add some significant quality around him. Additionally, anything less than a top-table finish will leave you firmly under pressure given the need to win things at the club.
Atlanta United
A franchise that reportedly has far better resources than most, Atlanta United is a team you can take charge of and potentially hugely elevate their chances of success in a relatively short period of time. A club that former Newcastle United attacker Miguel Almiron currently plies his trade for, Atlanta fans do have high expectations, but they certainly won’t get on your back after a few losses. However, you will probably need to challenge at the higher end of the table, especially if you spend big.
LA Galaxy
Finally, LA Galaxy is another club you’ll undoubtedly want to consider. Numerous Premier League legends have turned out for them, they’re always able to tempt ageing top players away from their respective clubs, and they have the resources needed to mount a trophy charge.
