Fans across the world are getting ready for some sleepless nights as the official release date for Football Manager 2020 draws ever nearer.
With a host of new features FM2020 promises to be the best version of the game yet, taking management simulation to a whole new level.
Deciding which team to manage can be a tricky task, but there are some excellent challenges to be found in leagues across the world.
Diving straight into the hot-seat at Manchester United might seem like a recipe for disaster, but many FM players will be tempted to try and revive the fortunes of England’s biggest club.
Read on as we look at five players who could help to transform United in FM2020.
Bruno Fernandes — Sporting Lisbon
United were heavily linked with Fernandes last summer, but they decided against pursuing a move for the Sporting Lisbon star.
However, the 25-year-old remains a shining light in Sporting’s midfield and would be a quality signing for FM 2020 managers.
It would take a fee of over £60 million to secure Fernandes’ services, but the financial outlay would undoubtedly see United’s title odds with BetEasy significantly cut.
Adam Hlozek – Sparta Prague
The talented Sparta winger has already attracted plenty of attention, with the likes of Ajax, Bayern Munich and Manchester City linked with a move for the youngster.
Hlozek made his senior debut for Sparta aged just 16, making him the youngest player in the club’s history to play in a league match.
He has gone on to establish himself in the first team and would be a hugely sensible investment for United as they look to rebuild.
Nicolo Armini — Lazio
United have been linked with a host of centre-backs over the last few months, with most of them featuring at the higher end of the price range.
However, as highlighted by the signings of Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bassaka, the Red Devils appear to have placed an emphasis on buying some of the world’s best wonderkids.
With that in mind, Armini’s impressive displays for Lazio and Italy at youth level make him well worth considering in FM2020.
Florentino Luis – Benfica
Benfica have consistently produced top class players and midfielder Florentino Luis appears to be the latest one of the production line.
Man City, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan have already been linked with the 20-year-old, but the hefty asking price could scare them off.
United’s midfield is in need of improvements and Luis looks to be exactly the type of player who would make them better in that area.
Nicolo Zaniolo — Roma
Zaniolo has already attracted plenty of interest from around Europe after scoring 11 goals in 52 appearances for Roma.
The attacking midfielder has been likened to Francesco Totti, although comparisons with Frank Lampard are perhaps a little closer to the mark.
Roma are believed to be reluctant to sell the 20-year-old, but he appeals as exactly the sort of player who would light up Old Trafford.
