Top Football Manager 2023 Players You Need To Know

by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey football fanatics! Ready to dive deep into the world of Football Manager 2023 and discover the best players to dominate your virtual pitch? This guide is your ultimate playbook, packed with insights, tips, and the lowdown on the stars who can turn your team from underdogs to champions. Forget scrolling endlessly – we've done the scouting for you, pinpointing the top talents across various positions, from wonderkids to seasoned veterans. Whether you're a seasoned FM veteran or a newcomer eager to build a dynasty, this is your go-to resource for identifying the players who will bring glory to your club. Get ready to bolster your squad with the finest players in the game, and prepare for a season of success!

The Scouting Report: Key Attributes and Why They Matter

Before we unveil our top picks, let's talk shop. In Football Manager, understanding player attributes is crucial. These aren't just random numbers; they're the building blocks of a player's performance. Knowing what to look for can be the difference between a signing that transforms your team and one that ends up warming the bench. Here's a quick rundown of some key attributes and why they're so important when scouting the best players:

  • Technical Attributes: This category is all about skill. Dribbling, Passing, Crossing, Finishing, and Tackling are critical. Higher numbers mean better execution on the field. Think of a winger with high Crossing and Dribbling – he’s going to be a nightmare for defenders, whipping in dangerous balls and gliding past opponents with ease.
  • Mental Attributes: These reflect a player's intelligence and decision-making. Vision, Composure, Decisions, and Work Rate are key. A player with great Vision can pick out a killer pass, while high Composure helps them stay cool under pressure. A player with high Work Rate will run all day, chasing down every ball, which is essential for every position.
  • Physical Attributes: Speed, strength, and stamina define how well a player performs physically. Pace, Acceleration, Stamina, and Strength are vital. A fast Pace is excellent for counter-attacks, while high Stamina ensures players can maintain their performance throughout the match. Strength is also crucial for winning physical battles and holding up the ball.

Understanding these attributes, combined with a good scouting network, will give you a significant advantage in Football Manager 2023. This knowledge will help you identify the players who best suit your tactics and strategy, maximizing your chances of success. Now that you're armed with this knowledge, let's dive into some specific player recommendations. Are you ready to discover the best players? Let's go!

Goalkeepers: The Last Line of Defense

In football, the goalkeeper is the last line of defense, so finding a solid shot-stopper is absolutely essential. A reliable goalkeeper can single-handedly win you matches, while a weak one can cost you crucial points. In Football Manager 2023, the best players in this position possess a blend of physical prowess, mental fortitude, and technical skill. Here's a look at some of the top goalkeepers to consider:

  • Gianluigi Donnarumma: Still young but already a veteran, Donnarumma is a must-have for any team with deep pockets. His reflexes are lightning-fast, and his command of the area is exceptional. He's the kind of keeper who will save you in one-on-one situations and is a leader who can organize your defense. If you're managing a team with ambitions of winning titles, Donnarumma is one of the best players.
  • Alisson Becker: Alisson is another top-tier goalkeeper with a reputation for being reliable and consistent. He is known for his excellent distribution and calmness under pressure. His attributes are well-rounded, making him a solid choice for almost any team.
  • Thibaut Courtois: One of the best players in the world, Courtois is a beast in goal. His height gives him an advantage, and his reflexes are top-notch. He's a dominant presence in the box and will make those spectacular saves that will boost the team's morale.

When evaluating goalkeepers, pay attention to their attributes like Reflexes, Handling, One-on-Ones, and Aerial Reach. A goalkeeper with high attributes in these areas will be a valuable asset to your team. Also, don't overlook their Concentration and Decision making, which are critical for staying focused throughout the match and making the right calls. Finding the right goalkeeper can transform your team, giving you a strong foundation to build your success.

Defenders: Building a Solid Backline

A strong defense is the bedrock of any successful team. Without a solid backline, even the most prolific attack will struggle. In Football Manager 2023, the best players in defense combine physical strength, tactical awareness, and mental toughness. Here are some of the standout defenders you should be looking at:

  • Ruben Dias: A commanding center-back, Ruben Dias is known for his strength, tackling ability, and aerial prowess. He's a natural leader and is excellent at organizing the defense. His composure under pressure and ability to read the game makes him one of the best players to anchor your defense. He’s a signing that will significantly increase your chances of keeping clean sheets.
  • Virgil van Dijk: Van Dijk is arguably the best player in the world. He brings leadership, composure, and an outstanding ability to read the game. His height and strength make him a formidable presence in the air, and his passing skills help initiate attacks from the back.
  • Trent Alexander-Arnold: A modern full-back, Alexander-Arnold offers exceptional crossing, passing, and set-piece ability. He's a creative force from defense, providing assists and adding another dimension to your attack. His defensive attributes are also decent, making him a well-rounded player.

When scouting defenders, focus on attributes like Tackling, Marking, Positioning, and Strength. Aggression and Work Rate are also important. The ability to win tackles, position themselves correctly, and be strong in the air is what you’re looking for in your best players. Building a formidable defense starts with identifying the right players; these players will make a huge difference in your squad's overall performance.

Midfielders: The Engine Room of Your Team

The midfield is the engine room of a football team, linking defense and attack, dictating the tempo, and winning the ball back. In Football Manager 2023, the best players in midfield possess a blend of technical skills, tactical understanding, and physical endurance. Here are some midfield maestros to consider:

  • Kevin De Bruyne: De Bruyne is a playmaker extraordinaire. His vision, passing range, and set-piece ability are unmatched. He can unlock any defense with a single pass and is the ultimate creator. He is one of the best players in the world, and his presence in the midfield can transform your team's attack.
  • Joshua Kimmich: A versatile midfielder, Kimmich is excellent at winning the ball, dictating play, and providing defensive cover. He’s a workhorse and can play in multiple positions, making him a valuable asset. His tactical awareness and passing skills make him a top choice for any team. His high Work Rate means he will run all day.
  • Jude Bellingham: Bellingham is a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder with a fantastic mix of talent. He is good at tackling, passing, and scoring goals. He’s a well-rounded player, making him a great choice. His Determination and Teamwork also make him an outstanding player for any team.

When evaluating midfielders, pay close attention to attributes such as Passing, Vision, Tackling, Work Rate, and Decisions. Players with high Passing and Vision can dictate the play, while those with good Tackling and Work Rate will be valuable in winning the ball back. Finding the right mix of players in midfield is essential to control the game and create chances. If you’re looking to find the best players, focus on those with a high level of versatility and strong attributes.

Forwards: Leading the Attack

Forwards are the goalscorers, the players who excite the fans and win matches. In Football Manager 2023, the best players in attack possess a blend of pace, finishing ability, and tactical awareness. Here are some of the top forwards you should be looking at:

  • Kylian Mbappé: Known for his incredible speed and clinical finishing, Mbappé is a game-changer. His pace and dribbling skills make him virtually impossible to defend against. He is arguably one of the best players to lead your attack. His attributes are outstanding, making him a threat in front of goal.
  • Erling Haaland: Haaland is a goal-scoring machine, known for his incredible finishing ability and strength. His movement off the ball and ability to get into scoring positions is unmatched. He is a must-have for any team aiming to score goals, which is why he is one of the best players.
  • Harry Kane: Kane is a prolific goalscorer with exceptional finishing, passing, and composure. His work rate and ability to link up play make him a great choice. He’s the ultimate target man, and his versatility makes him an asset. His Finishing and Composure are top-notch.

When scouting forwards, focus on attributes such as Finishing, Pace, Acceleration, Off the Ball, and Composure. The ability to finish chances, combined with pace and clever movement, is crucial. High Composure will help them stay calm under pressure and convert those vital goals. Finding the right forwards is key to turning your team into a goal-scoring machine. These best players can take you to the top of the league.

Wonderkids: The Future Stars

No Football Manager guide is complete without mentioning the wonderkids – the young, talented players who have the potential to become world-beaters. Spotting these talents early can give you a significant advantage, allowing you to build a team for the future. Here are a few young players to keep an eye on:

  • Jude Bellingham: Already mentioned above, but his potential is massive. He can be molded into a world-class midfielder.
  • Jamal Musiala: A gifted attacking midfielder with excellent dribbling and creativity. He has the potential to become one of the best players in his position.
  • Gavi: A young midfielder with high work rate, good passing, and tackling. He is a fantastic player with excellent potential.

Scouting wonderkids requires patience and a good scouting network. Look for players with high Potential Ability (PA) and good current attributes for their age. Remember, developing these players requires good coaching, playing time, and a supportive environment.

Tactics and Team Selection

Having the best players is only half the battle; how you use them is equally important. In Football Manager 2023, your tactics and team selection will determine your success. Here are a few tips:

  • Choose the Right Formation: Consider your players' strengths and weaknesses. A team full of fast wingers might excel in a 4-3-3 formation, while a team with strong central midfielders might thrive in a 4-2-3-1.
  • Set the Right Instructions: Customize your team and player instructions to suit your style of play. Do you want to play a possession-based game or a counter-attacking style?
  • Player Roles: Assign your players to the roles that best suit their attributes. A player with high Work Rate and Tackling might be a great defensive midfielder, while a player with excellent Vision and Passing could be a perfect playmaker.

By carefully choosing your tactics and team, you can get the best out of your players and maximize your chances of winning. Remember, the best players shine when used correctly. Experiment with different formations and instructions to see what works best for your team.

Conclusion: Building Your Dynasty

Building a successful team in Football Manager 2023 is a rewarding experience. It takes time, patience, and a keen eye for talent. By scouting the best players, understanding their attributes, and implementing the right tactics, you'll be well on your way to creating your own football dynasty. Remember to enjoy the process, learn from your mistakes, and never stop improving. Now, go forth and conquer the football world! Good luck!