Football Manager 2017 tips: how to master the new game

Take Formula 1, football or any other sport and you’ll find the same principles behind the progress of geniuses. The brightest minds have always used historical data to improve; it’s all about comparing stats, settings, footage and spotting those really important details that your competitiors may miss.

Things are no different in Football Manager 2017 – devising the best tactics requires attention to detail and an analytical mindset – not to mention an awful lot of patience.

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What to keep an eye on during matches
How your players are positioned immediately after losing possession – in different situations and areas of the pitc
How your players react after losing the ball – where you might be outnumbered
How good your defenders are at anticipating and positioning themselves for the offside trap
If the distance between compartments (defence, midfield and attack) is as you intended
If the player on the ball has good passing options – such as a free man, someone trying to beat the offside trap, someone coming short or someone waiting for a cross
If your players are often caught on their weak foot when finding themselves in a good crossing or finishing situation
Spot where and how your attacks end and how the opposition penetrates your defence
Figure out whether crosses fail to reach the target due to the passer’s poor ability to deliver them, or because of the receiver’s poor anticipation, strength, quickness or aerial reach

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