Top 5 Sky Bet Championship Teams to Manage on Football Manager 2023

Explore the opportunities and challenges that await in the Sky Bet Championship with these top five teams to manage on Football Manager 2023.

Explore the opportunities and challenges that await in the Sky Bet Championship with these top five teams to manage on Football Manager 2023.

The English Football League Championship, also known as the Sky Bet Championship, is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe. The league is full of clubs with rich history, passionate fans, and exciting players. The competition is fierce, with clubs battling for promotion to the Premier League. In this blog post, we will be taking a look at the top five teams to manage on Football Manager 2023, and discuss their strengths, weaknesses, and potential for success. Whether you're a new or experienced manager, these teams offer a great opportunity to test your skills and achieve glory.

1. Sheffield United

A few seasons ago, Sheffield United were the surprise package in the Premier League, finishing in an extremely respectable 9th place. However, they were relegated the following year. Now, in their second season back in the Championship, the Blades will be aiming for the big time again. The club is well structured, and the squad should be up for the promotion fight.

This summer, Sheffield United picked up wonderkid Anel Ahmedhodzic for £3m. He should provide defensive solidity. Meanwhile, the midfield looks talented, too, with Sander Berge and Manchester City loanee Tommy Doyle. Up front, Daniel Jebbison is one for the future.

2. West Bromwich Albion

West Brom are one of the Championship’s yo-yo teams, having been promoted four times and relegated four times to and from the Premier League. Albion’s ambition will be to get back to the Premier League and, more importantly, stay there.

West Brom have a very good squad in order to push for promotion. Last year, Albion spent big money on target man Daryl Dike, but unfortunately, he missed half of the season with a hamstring injury which restricted their chances. Hopefully, this year will be better for the American. The new signings have continued this summer. Signings like John Swift from Reading and Tom Rogic, who was picked up from Celtic, should provide creativity in central midfield. Grady Diangana is an exciting winger who could play in the Premier League again.

Can you lead the Baggies back to the promised land?

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3. Blackpool

Blackpool are a very interesting side to manage on Football Manager 2023. The Seasiders finished in mid-table last year and will be looking to continue that progress in order to return to the Premier League for the first time since 2011.

In order to achieve their goals, Blackpool’s squad is intriguing. Marvin Ekpiteta is an excellent defender who has quickly risen up the leagues; only 4 seasons ago, he was playing in the National League South for East Thurrock United. His strength and physicality make him a lynchpin at the back for The Seasiders. Blackpool also have some interesting players on loan: Ian Poveda (Leeds), Rhys Williams (Liverpool), and the talented attacking midfielder Charlie Patino. Getting Blackpool to the playoffs won’t be an easy task, but it will certainly be a fun one.

4. Sunderland

Sunderland were finally promoted from League One last year. Now out of the wilderness, the Black Cats will give the Championship a good go.

This summer’s transfers suggest a lot of ambition from Sunderland’s board. They have signed Amad Diallo from Manchester United on loan. His pace, creativity, and talent should be highly appreciated at The Stadium of Light. Sunderland spent £3.5m on 21-year-old Jack Clarke from Tottenham. Clarke is predicted to have a very bright future; the Black Cats have done well to keep him after a successful loan spell.

Sunderland’s great rivals Newcastle United are becoming a big force in English football again. It’s your job to overtake Newcastle and ultimately bring the Premier League title to Wearside.

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5. Middlesbrough

Staying in the North East, Middlesbrough are another fun option to choose in the Championship. In 1997, Middlesbrough reached both the FA Cup and the League Cup finals with the likes of Juninho and Ravanelli. Things have changed since then, though. Last year, Boro missed out on the playoffs by one place last year and will be looking to remedy that this season.

Boro have some good players. Homegrown defender Dael Fry has become a rock at the back for Middlesbrough over recent seasons. Zak Steffen is on loan from Manchester City, and Chuba Akpom is up front.

It’s been a long time since the joy of the world superstars lighting up the Riverside. Can you bring back that happiness?

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sky Bet Championship is a league full of opportunities for managers on Football Manager 2023. Each of the teams we've looked at in this blog post offer unique challenges and potential for success. Sheffield United, West Bromwich Albion, Blackpool, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough all have their own strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. Whether you're looking to lead a team back to the Premier League, take a mid-table club to the playoffs, or build a team from scratch, these teams provide a great platform to test your managerial abilities. With a mix of talented players, well-structured clubs, and passionate fans, the Championship is a league that provides endless entertainment and excitement for players of Football Manager.