Ever wondered what happened to Football Manager 2025? We’ve got the inside story on its unexpected hiatus and the highly anticipated return. Plus, dive into Jose Mourinho’s latest departure, Chelsea’s shocking new transfer target, and Son Heung-min’s incredible impact on MLS. What’s been the biggest shocker for you?

The world of football gaming was left speculating when Football Manager, a beloved franchise known for its deep simulation and strategic depth, appeared to vanish for its 2025 iteration. This unexpected hiatus from the annual release schedule prompted widespread concern and curiosity among its dedicated player base, who had grown accustomed to yearly updates and new features since the game spun off from Championship Manager in 2003.

The mystery has since been unraveled by The Athletic, which confirmed that the decision to skip FM25 was a strategic move rather than a sign of trouble. Miles Jacobson, studio director at Sports Interactive, clarified that the development team needed extra time to implement significant technological advancements and ensure a groundbreaking experience for the highly anticipated FM26. This explanation aims to reassure fans, promising an innovative and expanded game for its next release.

Despite the positive outlook for FM26, the absence of FM25 undoubtedly impacted the brand’s immediate reputation. While an online teaser for FM26 garnered immense views, signaling continued popularity, the initial decision to pull the 2025 version caused ripples, notably affecting the stock market valuation of Sega, the game’s parent company. This highlights the substantial commercial weight and fan expectation surrounding the Football Manager series.

Beyond the gaming world, the traditional football landscape witnessed significant developments, including the departure of iconic manager Jose Mourinho from Fenerbahce. Arriving to immense fanfare, Mourinho’s tenure concluded after one full campaign, with the team falling short of UEFA Champions League qualification. His exit marks another chapter in the storied career of one of football’s most recognizable figures.

Transfer sagas continued to dominate headlines, with a major move reportedly in the works: Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United to Chelsea. Reports suggest that Manchester United has accepted a fee for the talented winger, making this one of the summer’s most anticipated transfers. The potential switch could significantly alter the attacking dynamics for both Premier League clubs.

Other player movements also captured attention, such as Kobbie Mainoo’s request to leave Manchester United on loan, seeking more consistent playing time. This development, alongside insights from Matt Slater’s “Business of Football” column, underscored how modern football transfers and legal agreements are increasingly influenced by digital communication, with WhatsApp messages even holding legal weight in negotiations.

Across the Atlantic, the Major League Soccer (MLS) experienced a seismic impact with the arrival of South Korean superstar Son Heung-min at LAFC. His signing generated immense excitement, instantly translating into a commercial boom for the club, with Son’s jersey becoming the top-selling item in the league shortly after his debut. His presence is seen as a major boost for the league’s global appeal.

To further amplify the hype, Son participated in a classic American cultural event, throwing the first pitch at an LA Dodgers baseball game. This cross-sport promotion not only endeared him to a wider audience but also showcased the growing intersection of global football stars with American sports entertainment, cementing his status as a significant figure both on and off the pitch in the United States.