The most wonderful time of the year is back. No, not Christmas, but the return of Football Manager… obviously!
The popular football simulation game is back for a 17th time as West Ham United fans far and wide look to fill Manuel Pellegrini’s shoes in the London Stadium dug-out.
A huge aspect of Football Manager, in particular, is the ability to scout, sign and develop promising young ‘wonder-kids’ who will grow with you across the course of your career.
Here, I’ve taken a look at five starlets with high potential who you should look to bring to East London in your Football Manager save.
Many would argue areas Pellegrini should strengthen in real life are at centre-back, centre-midfield and in attack, so I’ve taken that into account whilst making my selections.
Will you be taking on the role of Hammers boss this year?
Current Ability – CA
Potential Ability – PA
Ansu Fati (CA: 120/PA: 187)
You must be living under a rock if you haven’t heard of Fati yet. The 16-year-old has shot onto the scene at Barcelona after coming out of ‘La Masia’ and can play on the left and upfront. He’s certainly one for the future but can definitely provide solid competition.
Sergio Gomez (CA: 140/PA: 187)
With Mark Noble running out of time, Pablo Fornals failing to convince and Manuel Lanzini out of form, Gomez is a great option to add some life to the midfield. Currently at Huesca on loan from Borussia Dortmund, the 18-year-old is valued at just £2.1m.
Myron Boadu (CA: 125/PA: 176)
Valued at £4.5m, the exciting Dutch striker could be the player to provide competition for Haller. He’s scored seven goals in 11 games already for AZ Alkmaar this season and has a very affordable salary.
Hamed Junior Traore (CA: 136/PA: 173)
Declan Rice is crying out for some back-up and Traore could provide just that. Aged 19, the Ivorian is a versatile midfielder who is naturally more defensive but can slot into a more advanced role too.
Jean-Clair Todibo (CA: 130/PA: 170)
Another Barcelona star that should be considered is Todibo. The 19-year-old French centre-back can also be training to become a natural defensive midfielder. May as well cover two target positions at once!