Whether it’s EA FC 26 or Madden 26, almost every sports game allows you to experience the thrill of reviving a struggling team. In this regard, one of football’s most anticipated titles, Football Manager 26, follows a similar trend and, in fact, goes beyond.
Thanks to various in-depth managerial aspects, this game takes team building to a whole new level. Here, continuing the legacy of an established team and pushing it to its limits provides satisfaction; however, managing a lower division team and elevating it to the top of the charts is far more rewarding. To ensure you get the most fun out of Football Manager 26, here are all the struggling clubs you should consider saving.
Lower Division Teams You Should Consider Managing
Sora (Italy, Serie D)
Starting this list with a deserving Italian underdog. Sora is a modest club that has competed in several minor Italian leagues, including Serie C and D. Their achievements aren’t flashy, but they are still worth mentioning here. Fast forward to today, and they have completely lost their spark.
Now, Sora struggles in Serie D and isn’t capable of being promoted to higher divisions. Additionally, hardships such as significant financial problems continue to harm their legacy. But with Football Manager 26, you can convert Sora’s struggle story to a success story. Without the need for database mods, restoring the former glory of the club and elevating it to Serie A level will be pretty rewarding.
Bursaspor (Turkey, Third Tier)
Bursaspor, nicknamed Yesil Timsahlar (Green Crocodiles), was a Turkish powerhouse that created a notable name in the sport. In the past, Bursaspor has had a fair share of achievements, including the most recent 2010 Turkish Süper Lig victory and Turkish Cup, dating back to the late 80s.
Today, they are no longer at the top; in fact, they lie in the third division, primarily due to financial issues and years of crisis. But thanks to their strong significance, this club is ideal for a Football Manager 26 player who recognizes tactical potential and is fond of history. By being thoughtful and emotionally connected, one can easily revive Bursaspor and put them in a better position.
Deportiva La Coruna (Spain, Second Division)
These Spanish guys were shining bright in the past and even battled on the fields of the Champions League. Depor’s prime is unforgettable, as during their golden era (1993-2004) they beat major football highlights such as Real Madrid and Barcelona.
But due to a decade-long decline, the club is no longer considered Super Depor. While it has regained Segunda Division, a lot of work is required to cook up a La Liga-level team. Their legacy can be continued in the game to create a more challenging and nostalgic experience.
1860 Munich (Germany, Third Division)
Also known as Die Löwen (The Lions), 1860 Munich was once an unstoppable club that shared the city with football powerhouses like Bayern Munich. History books are filled with their successes, such as winning the 1964 DFB-Pokal, the 1965 European Cup Winners’ Cup, and, of course, the 1966 German Championship.
But just like any other team on this list, the Lions are no longer at the same pace. Due to years of financial woes and mismanagement, they need you in Football Manager 26 to regain their throne —imagine grinding and putting them against Bayern Munich once again.
Málaga (Spain, Second Division)
Another notable Spanish club on our list is Màlaga. It comes from Costa del Sol, and for a complete rollercoaster of a ride, you should definitely check out the team’s history. In short, they have been great in their prime, reaching the quarterfinals in the 2013 Champions League and securing fourth place in La Liga.
However, due to significant money issues and the owners not paying attention, Màlaga soon lost its edge. Plus, the one-year UEFA ban because of unpaid debts was the final nail in the coffin for this club. These issues would be a treat to handle in Football Manager 26, especially for someone who remembers Màlaga’s prime.
Aberdeen (Scotland, Premiership)
When the question is about Scotland’s finest football clubs, Aberdeen is the answer. The journey of this team started in 1903, and was good enough to earn them plenty of nicknames, including the most used, The Dons. Apart from flashy names, they also bagged several trophies, which include: 4 Scottish League Titles, 7 Scottish Cups, and 6 Scottish League Cups.
Currently, they are at the bottom of the Scottish Premiership, but their astonishing 2025 Scottish Cup victory, achieved for the first time in 35 years, makes them a potential highlight for rebuilding. By balancing off-field investments and on-field success, you can make this club capable enough to take on the Rangers and Celtics.
Vitesse Arnhem (Netherlands, Second Division)
The last team that needs your peak managerial attention is Vitesse Arnhem. They are known for their Chelsea affiliation and for producing stars like Mason Mount. When it comes to wins, this club has played a notable part in the history books with wins such as the KNVB Cup, Eerste Divisie, and Tweede Divisie.
However, they have hit rock bottom due to their finances, which ultimately led to the revocation of their professional license by KNVB. Apart from that, as they failed to provide justifications with accounts, financial controls, and other money-related transparency, the team was relegated from the Eredivisie following an 18-point deduction. Together, these issues make them a deserving team for a proper comeback in Football Manager 26. All you need to do here is to stabilize ownership with a balanced budget and enhanced administrative credibility, to push for promotion.
With that, the list comes to an end. Since managing these teams won’t be an easy task, make sure to give your best and dive into the game with the new tactics system.
