Best Mid-Table Teams in Europe for a Football Manager Challenge

A list of 7 perfect mid-table teams in Europe to manage in FM24, offering continental action without domestic dominance.

Looking for a European team with a realistic challenge in FM24? Discover 7 exciting mid-range clubs playing in Europe this season.

Why I Wanted Something Different in FM24

You know that moment when you’re staring at the FM home screen, itching for a new save, but nothing feels quite right? That was me last week. I didn’t want a giant like Bayern or PSG where success feels expected. I also didn’t want a relegation scrap. I was craving that sweet spot: a mid-table club in a strong league, good enough to sneak into Europe, but not quite a title contender. Something that makes every win feel earned.

That’s when I saw a post by a fellow FM player wondering the same thing: “What are some fun mid-range teams playing in Europe?” He mentioned Bologna and Girona, and my mind started racing. So I’ve put together this list just for you.

Let’s dive into 7 brilliant clubs that give you continental competition and a proper challenge in FM24.

1. Braga (Portugal)

Braga might be the most FM-friendly club in Portugal right now. They’re not Porto, Benfica, or Sporting, but they consistently punch above their weight and often qualify for the Champions League or Europa League. You’ve got a solid youth system, a smart scouting network, and just enough budget to get creative.

Tip: Try to finally break the Big Three’s grip on Liga Portugal. With a few savvy signings and a bit of tactical brilliance, you could write a new chapter in Portuguese football.

2. Fiorentina (Italy)

If you love a bit of Italian flair, Fiorentina offers just that. With European football often in the cards—whether it’s the Conference League or Europa—you’re working with a historic club that’s hungry for more. The purple kits are iconic, and the fanbase expects passion.

Tip: Building a new spine with young Italian talent can be a fun twist. Scout locally and reintroduce the Viola to European glory.

3. Athletic Bilbao (Spain)

Talk about a challenge! Bilbao only uses Basque players, which makes recruitment tricky—but it’s one of the most rewarding FM saves out there. The upside? You’ll always have a solid academy and fans who stick by you. In FM24, they’re often in Europe, making this save both limiting and exciting.

Warning: If you don’t enjoy long-term planning and patience, this might not be your vibe.

READ ALSO: 5 Clubs With Transfer Restrictions in Football Manager 2024

4. Stade de Reims (France)

They’re not a Ligue 1 heavyweight, but Reims has been quietly making moves. With a talented young squad and occasional forays into European competition, they’re perfect for someone who wants to challenge the PSGs and Marseilles of the world—eventually.

Tip: Focus on developing your youth. France is stacked with wonderkids, and you can build a dynasty right from your academy.

5. Royal Antwerp (Belgium)

Antwerp is steeped in history and they’ve been on the rise lately, even competing in the Champions League qualifiers. The Belgian league is underrated in FM: strong talent, decent budgets, and tactical variety. Antwerp gives you a mix of tradition and ambition.

Tip: Keep an eye on the domestic player rule in Belgium. You’ll need a good core of Belgian talent, but that’s part of the charm.

6. Austria Wien (Austria)

Fancy a trip to Central Europe? Austria Wien is a sleeping giant in the Austrian Bundesliga. Red Bull Salzburg may rule the roost, but you’ve got history, a fanbase, and continental qualification to build on. Time to break the Red Bull monopoly.

Tip: Look to Germany for loan signings and young prospects—geography helps here.

READ ALSO: 6 Clubs in Financial Crisis That Need Saving in FM24

7. Girona (Spain)

Girona’s rise has been electric, and with the backing of the City Football Group, there’s more to come. They’re usually in or around the European places in FM24, which makes them a spicy underdog pick.

Tip: Use CFG connections to loan in some high-potential talent. Just don’t forget to develop your own stars along the way.

READ NEXT: Football Manager City Group Challenge

Bonus Save: Bologna (Italy)

Already considering Bologna? Good shout. The club’s recent trajectory is on the up, and in FM24 they’re usually a contender for a top 6 finish. It’s a great save if you want something in Serie A but not too easy.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—seven (plus a bonus!) fantastic mid-tier clubs that give you European nights without the unrealistic pressure of instant domination. Whether you're building a legacy in Bilbao or chasing glory with Braga, there's a save here that could easily become your next obsession.

And hey, once you’ve chosen your club, don’t forget to check out our Ultimate FM24 Tactics Guides to get a head start.

Happy managing, and let me know which team you went with!