First Look at Football Manager 2026: Revolutionizing the Match Day Experience

Sports Interactive dropped the highly anticipated "Match Day First Look" trailer for Football Manager 2026 (FM26), giving fans their initial glimpse into the game's revamped match engine.

This minute-long video, shared via the official @FootballManager account on X, showcases in-engine footage that promises a transformative leap in realism and immersion, built on the Unity engine following the controversial cancellation of Football Manager 2025 (FM25).

Built on new foundations.
Where storytelling evolves.

Your #FM26 Match Day First Look 🎬 pic.twitter.com/HaPpD1qXcP

— Football Manager (@FootballManager) September 4, 2025

The Trailer Breakdown: From Foundations to Drama

The trailer opens with bold, colourful text proclaiming "NEW FOUNDATIONS," setting the tone for FM26's overhaul. Accompanied by an energetic rap track with lyrics like "you know we don't play check out this look on my face," the video transitions into stunning overhead views of packed stadiums, where dynamic shadows from players, structures, and even the ball stretch across meticulously detailed pitches. These visuals highlight enhanced lighting effects and crowd animations, creating a deeper sense of atmosphere in diverse match scenarios—from sunlit day games to potentially floodlit evenings.

As the music builds, the trailer emphasizes "DEEPER IMMERSION" with shots of roaring crowds in iconic stadiums, players lining up for kickoff, and intricate pitch details like mowed grass patterns. Fluid player movements take center stage under "FLUID FOOTBALL," depicting smooth dribbles, precise passes, tackles, and build-up play that feel more lifelike than ever. The engine's advanced physics shine through in ball trajectories and interactions, suggesting a more responsive and tactical gameplay experience.

The climax focuses on "PURE DRAMA," capturing intense moments such as goal celebrations, desperate saves, set pieces, and near-misses. Close-ups on goals, with players sliding in or goalkeepers diving, underscore the emotional storytelling that FM26 aims to deliver. The video culminates in a rallying cry: "CHANGE THE GAME," followed by the FM26 logo and a call to "WISHLIST NOW" on platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store.

Notably, the trailer features official Premier League branding, including the league's trophy and authentic stadium hoardings— a first for the series after securing the license that was originally slated for FM25. Speculation has arisen about potential crossovers, with some spotting elements reminiscent of EA Sports FC, though nothing has been confirmed.

The Road to FM26: Overcoming FM25's Cancellation

This reveal comes after a turbulent period for the franchise. In February 2025, Sports Interactive made the unprecedented decision to cancel FM25 entirely, breaking a 30-year streak of annual releases. Studio director Miles Jacobson explained that the game "hasn't achieved what we set out to do" and lacked the "fun" factor essential to the series, citing development challenges with the Unity engine transition and internal quality assessments. Legal issues with publisher Sega also played a role, but the move allowed the team to redirect resources toward making FM26 a "transformative entry."

The Unity engine, a cornerstone of FM26, promises overhauled graphics, better performance, and new features like integrated women's football leagues—another holdover from FM25's plans. However, international management won't be playable at launch, a feature cut earlier in development. With no strict release date announced yet, expectations point to a November 2025 launch, aligning with the series' traditional window.

What’s Next for FM26?

While the trailer focuses solely on the match engine, Sports Interactive has teased more reveals soon, including deeper dives into gameplay mechanics, pricing, and platform availability. The inclusion of the Premier League license elevates authenticity, potentially featuring real kits, badges, and player likenesses for England's top flight. As Jacobson emphasized, releasing a subpar FM25 could have "permanently damaged" the series' reputation—FM26 appears poised to redeem that risk with its ambitious rebuild.

For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this first look signals a bold evolution in football management simulation. Whether it delivers on the hype remains to be seen, but the trailer has undoubtedly reignited passion for the franchise. Wishlist FM26 today and stay tuned for more updates as we approach launch.