NEWS  Games  November 14, 2023  Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

In an unexpected collaboration that surely no one saw coming, Xbox and Football Manager are offering gamers the chance of a lifetime: to swap their comfy armchairs for the intense pressure cooker that is Bromley FC in England's Vanarama National League. Because clearly, managing a virtual team on Football Manager is the perfect training ground for real-life football management. Move over, Pep Guardiola.

The riveting campaign, aptly named 'The Everyday Tactician,' not only celebrates the launch of Football Manager 24 but also marks the momentous 20th anniversary of a series that has undoubtedly shaped the destinies of many virtual football clubs. To prove your worthiness for this monumental leap from pixels to pitch, all you need to do is complete a series of tasks, including a quest within the game that is as specially designed as this collaboration itself.

But wait, it's not that easy! To enter this life-altering competition, aspiring managers must first showcase their dominance in the virtual realm by achieving the illustrious 'Championes' Xbox achievement. Because, as we all know, conquering a digital league title is the ultimate litmus test for real-world managerial prowess. It's like saying, "I mastered the art of cooking instant noodles; now, let me run a Michelin-starred restaurant".

And for those who think winning a digital trophy is child's play, the finalists are in for a treat. After the grueling task of filling out a form (bureaucracy, even in the gaming world), they must eloquently present their case in a one-minute video, explaining why they are the chosen ones to grace Bromley FC with their tactical genius. Move over, job interviews; we have FIFA-like skill challenges now.

But fear not, fellow gamers, for the cherry on top is a final interview with the Bromley FC staff. Because nothing says "I'm ready to lead a real football team" like a chat with the folks who probably never expected a Football Manager champion to knock on their door.

The pièce de résistance? The lucky winner gets to transition from virtual glory to a full-time role as a 'Support Performance Tactician' at Bromley FC. Yes, you heard it right. Forget about those fancy titles like head coach or manager; it's all about supporting performance tactically.

Bromley FC's manager, Andy Woodman, is apparently thrilled at the prospect of having an enthusiastic supporter join the backroom staff. Because who wouldn't want their tactical decisions influenced by someone whose expertise lies in the digital realm?

In conclusion, Xbox and Football Manager are taking the gaming world by storm, proving once and for all that conquering the virtual pitch is the key to success in the cutthroat world of real-life football management. So, aspiring managers, polish those gaming skills, because Bromley FC awaits its next tactical maestro – the hero they never knew they needed.

 IMAGES CREDITS: SPORTS INTERACTIVE / SEGA