If you are a fan of the Football Manager series of games you will be familiar with this agonising question – which team should I manage?
The Premier League is a popular place to start for many players, offering them the chance to take on the challenge of launching their career at the top level.
However, each of the 20 teams offers a different test. Do you go for one of the big guns or start off by trying to transform the fortunes of a team battling relegation?
With that in mind, we have come up with four suggestions for the best teams to manage in the Premier League in FM 24.
Manchester United
There was a time not too long ago when taking charge of Manchester United in the FM series virtually guaranteed you would become a successful manager.
The Red Devils now present a much tougher challenge, with the club no longer the force they once were under legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
With ‘noisy neighbours’ Manchester City now a formidable force in the English top flight and several other big clubs to contend with, managing United is no easy task.
Just one look at the league table and the latest Premier League betting odds show you how far down the pecking order United have fallen. This is the ideal opportunity to fix things and knock Man City off their perch. Are you up to the task?
Newcastle United
With wealthy Saudi Arabian owners willing to bankroll the club, Newcastle United have the potential to be a big hitter in the Premier League.
As most FM players know, having vast financial resources is no guarantee of success in the game, which makes the Magpies an intriguing proposition.
Buying the right players will be the key to success, but is a tricky task given Newcastle’s geographical location and lack of silverware over the past few decades.
The fans may be patient in the short-term, but the owners will want a quick return on their investment. Get things right, and managing Newcastle could be a rewarding FM save.
Chelsea
Chelsea will head into the 2023/24 season with big expectations following the huge outlay made by their new owners in the last two transfer windows.
The Blues have underperformed during the current campaign and any manager taking charge of them faces a tough task to turn their fortunes around.
The immediate task will be to move on some of the deadwood at the club, before addressing some of the glaring holes in the squad.
Adhering to Financial Fair Play Rules will make this a tricky role, but one which could lead you to the top of the managerial tree in FM.
West Ham United
West Ham is another club that has failed to live up to expectations this season, which makes them ideal fodder for an exciting journey in FM 24.
Replacing David Moyes in the hot seat will appeal to managers who want to implement a more exciting style of play on a club with designs on being regulars in Europe.
One of the first decisions you will need to make involves midfielder Declan Rice. Selling him would give you valuable funds to work with in the transfer market, but it may pay to keep him.
The West Ham job is a role that will appeal to FM managers who are looking for a long-term project that involves building a future dynasty.
