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Football Manager 26: Release Date, Global Times, Platforms, Price, and Early Reviews

Football Manager 26 is almost here, and fans of Sports Interactive’s long-running football management series won’t have to wait much longer to dive in.


The game is set to launch on November 4, 2025, and it’s bringing plenty of new features, platform options, and even day-one availability on Xbox Game Pass. Whether you’re a veteran of the series or someone curious about stepping into the dugout for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about FM26’s release, pricing, and early impressions.


FM26 arrives Nov 4, 2025 on PC, Xbox, PS5, and more. Learn about release times, Game Pass, prices, and early reviews from critics.
Football Manager 26 launches Nov 4 with day-one Game Pass. Find release times, platform list, pricing breakdown, and early review scores.

FM26 Release Date and Global Unlock Times

The official release date for Football Manager 26 is Tuesday, November 4, 2025. The game will unlock simultaneously across the globe, meaning no region gets a head start. Here’s when you can expect the game to go live in your region on console:

  • Los Angeles (PST) – Nov 4, 8:00 AM

  • Mexico City (CST) – Nov 4, 10:00 AM

  • New York (EST) – Nov 4, 11:00 AM

  • São Paulo (BRT) – Nov 4, 1:00 PM

  • London (GMT) – Nov 4, 4:30 PM

  • Paris / Berlin (CET) – Nov 4, 5:30 PM

  • Athens (EET) – Nov 4, 6:30 PM

  • Moscow (MSK) – Nov 4, 7:30 PM

  • Dubai (GST) – Nov 4, 8:30 PM

  • New Delhi (IST) – Nov 4, 9:30 PM

  • Bangkok (ICT) – Nov 4, 11:00 PM

  • Beijing / Singapore (CST/SGT) – Nov 5, 12:00 AM

  • Tokyo (JST) – Nov 5, 1:00 AM

  • Seoul (KST) – Nov 5, 1:00 AM

  • Sydney (AEDT) – Nov 5, 3:00 AM

  • Auckland (NZDT) – Nov 5, 5:00 AM


Platforms and Editions

FM26 is launching across multiple platforms, with tailored editions for different types of players:

  • PC/Mac (Steam, Epic Games Store, Windows Store)

  • Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5

  • Nintendo Switch (FM26 Touch) – December 4, 2025.

  • iOS/Android (FM26 Mobile) – Coming soon, exclusively for Netflix members.

  • Apple Arcade (FM26 Touch) – Included in the subscription service from Nov 4.


Notably, there are no deluxe or collector’s editions this year. All versions are digital-only, though the content is consistent across platforms.


Price and Pre-Order Discounts

Pricing for Football Manager 26 is consistent across most regions:

  • PC/Mac & Console (PS5/Xbox) – $59.99 / £49.99 / €59.99

  • Pre-order discount (10%) – $53.99 / £44.99 / €53.99

  • Nintendo Switch (FM Touch) – Not listed, but definitely less than console and PC

  • Mobile (iOS/Android) – Free for Netflix subscribers; for non-subscribers, not yet announced.


If you’re subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass, you won’t need to buy the game separately — it’s included on day one.


Early Access and Beta

For PC and Mac players who pre-ordered digitally, the Advanced Access Beta went live on October 23, 2025. This early version includes the core career mode, women’s football integration, and revamped tactical systems. Progress made in the beta carries over to the full release, making it a great way to get a head start.


The beta has already given fans a taste of the new Unity-powered match engine, revamped manager creator, and possession-based tactical formations. While some bugs have been reported, that’s expected in a pre-release build.


Early Reviews and Impressions

The review embargo lifted on October 16, 2025, and critics have started sharing their thoughts. Here’s a snapshot of what’s being said:

  • Eurogamer praised the new “Inbox” system for streamlining notifications and highlighted the RPG-style manager creation as a fun addition. They did note that the redesigned UI takes some getting used to.

  • Josh Daly (YouTube) called the beta a “masterpiece,” pointing to the improved match engine visuals and seamless integration of women’s football.

  • Eneba Hub offered a more mixed view, praising the animations and stadium rendering but criticizing bugs and UI quirks.

  • Initial Alpha Reviews (YouTube) gave it a 5–7/10 range, saying the potential is there but graphics and weather effects underwhelmed compared to expectations.


Overall, the consensus so far is that FM26 is a refined and ambitious entry in the series, with meaningful new features but also a learning curve for returning players.


With the addition of women’s football, official FIFA licenses, and a more polished match engine, it’s clear Sports Interactive is aiming to push the series forward while keeping its core intact.

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