Sports Interactive has officially canceled the release of Football Manager 2025, marking the first time in over two decades that the popular football management simulation will not have a new annual installment. The developers cited ongoing challenges with the game’s development and a failure to meet internal quality expectations as reasons for the decision.
The highly anticipated Football Manager 2025 was initially set to be a major step forward for the franchise, featuring a switch to a new game engine, Unity, which was expected to improve graphics and gameplay mechanics. However, delays in the development process, coupled with the complexity of the transition, led to the decision to scrap the release entirely rather than delivering a product that did not meet fans’ expectations.
Sports Interactive’s studio director, Miles Jacobson, issued an apology to fans, acknowledging the disappointment caused by the cancellation. He assured the community that the team is now focusing on ensuring that Football Manager 2026 will be a significant upgrade, benefitting from the additional development time. The cancellation also affects various platforms, including PC, console, and mobile versions.
This decision comes as a shock to the game’s loyal fanbase, which has grown accustomed to annual releases since the franchise first launched in 2004. Many players were particularly eager to experience the new gameplay mechanics that were promised for Football Manager 2025.
Despite the setback, the developers have reaffirmed their commitment to delivering an improved experience with the next edition. Sports Interactive emphasized that the extended timeline will allow them to refine the Unity engine transition, optimize features, and create the most advanced Football Manager title to date.
For now, fans of the franchise will have to wait until Football Manager 2026 to see what improvements the series has in store.