After a break in 2025, Football Manager 26 Touch is back. For those who don’t know, this is a slightly pared-down version of Sports Interactive’s iconic football management sim for Apple Arcade and the Nintendo Switch. It doesn’t quite offer the depth of the full-fat version, but it’s a great way for fans of the beautiful game to test whether they really have the tactical nous to compete with legends such as Pep Guardiola, Hansi Flick, and the other managerial beasts of the footballing world. Spoiler: I do not.
I have to slightly caveat this review by saying that FM26 Touch is for a certain type of gamer, and if you didn’t enjoy the endless menus and decision-making from previous games, you probably won’t now. This is, after all, a management simulator, so there’s no EA FC-style soccer gameplay, but you have control over almost every element, both on and off the pitch, from transfers to set-piece routines. Simply put, it’s a game for soccer fanatics and those keeping track of xG, and if that’s not you, you’ll likely find the game a touch overwhelming.
On loading up FM26 Touch for the first time, you can start a new career or import your FM24 Touch progress, but to keep things fresh, I started from scratch. Here’s where you might notice one of the big differences from previous versions, as women’s football is much better represented, including women’s leagues from all around the world. That means you’ve got even more choices to pick from, but I’m always going to have to opt for my beloved, and beleaguered, West Bromwich Albion. Still, it’s nice to have even more options, and, of course, it’s another win for inclusivity.
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