27 replies to this topic

[Sears]

Once again, I fail in my quest to have a long term Athletic Bilbao file. Instead, I've decided to load up a few nations I'd like to manage in, whilst trying to maintain to have one long save.

Initial set up

I'm hoping to manage in all those countries in this save, though one or two may be used to increase my reputation. I've started on the latest patch, 12.0.4.

My profile

I've started with the Sunday League reputation, as I want to start at the bottom and fight my way to the top. Not sure why my reputation is national though (?).

First job offer

Which I've accepted. This is the current league table, bearing in mind that the Brazilian begins way back in December, and I began the game in July. Were predicated to finish 20^th so my main aim is to simply avoid relegation. I've inherited a reasonable squad, particularly old which is concerning. Updates will just be season updates, I don't have the time for anything else. School's gonna be hectic for the next two weeks.

[jd123]

Good luck with this mate. Your rep will be national due to the fact you didn't load leagues low enough to get a job with Sunday league rep. As a result it just upgrades it to the lowest rep you can get a job with. Hope that explains it.

[Judders]

 jd123, on 04 December 2011 - 08:14 PM, said:

Good luck with this mate. Your rep will be national due to the fact you didn't load leagues low enough to get a job with Sunday league rep. As a result it just upgrades it to the lowest rep you can get a job with. Hope that explains it.

Dunno... I would have thought loading Blue Square North/South and Ireland First Division would have given Sunday League Rep a job. Could be wrong of course.

[jd123]

 Judders, on 04 December 2011 - 10:29 PM, said:

Dunno... I would have thought loading Blue Square North/South and Ireland First Division would have given Sunday League Rep a job. Could be wrong of course.

You could be right mate, I'm just not sure why else it would change. It's irrespective either way really.

[Sears]

Cheers lads!

Havn't played much FM if any at all lately because of school. However, finally, after 8 games, I've won my first league game! Two late goals sealed an emphatic victory for us. First time I've managed in Brazil, so I'm still doodling around with my tactics and such. We will more than likely get relegated - which would mean I'd be stacked, as I havn't loaded up the lower leagues in Brazil.

[jd123]

It looks as if the table is upside down! I don't think anyone would ever predict that bottom 4.

[Sears]

 jd123, on 10 December 2011 - 01:21 PM, said:

It looks as if the table is upside down! I don't think anyone would ever predict that bottom 4.

Ha, wait till you see the finishing table

------------------------------------------------------------------

Ceará - Brazil National First Division 2011

With 17 games remaining, I wanted to pull us away from the relegation battle and move further up the table. However, I endured a torrid start as I failed to adapt quickly enough to Brazil's style. I heavily tweaked my tactic, and we ended the season fantastically. Look who got relegated

League Table

League Positions Graph

(I wasn't in charge for the games to the left of the black box)

Copa Sudamericana- We lost in the Second Preliminary Round. We won the 1st leg at home, but were defeated in the 2nd leg on away goals

Brazilian Ceará State Championship - I wasn't in charge for this tournament, and to be honest, I've no idea how it works. There's an opening and closing stage, and a few different finals, nevertheless it seems like an easy trophy to regain.

Squad - The squad is decent, nothing special. I'll need to replace the old fella's with new younger players. As I got off to a bad start, I wasn't sure if most of them were up to the task. We then went on an amazing run and that quashed any remaining fears.

Transfers - Nothing much to see here.

Finances - Were making profits most months, which is extremely pleasing.

Key Player Profiles:

Osvaldo - My best striker, he's immense, though I would like to see better performances from him next season.

Rudnei - Guy was phenomenal until he broke his leg, a massive loss in midfield.

Vicente - He's been attracting interest from Europe, and I rejected a £1.9 million bid from French side AS Staint-Etienne.

Thiago Humberto - My midfield maestro, huge shame that he was on loan. If I have some funds during the transfer market, I may purchase him permanently.

Roger - He and Osvaldo are great striking partners, hopefully I'll see more goals from both of them next term.

Next Season

After a decent finish to the campaign, I'll be hoping for a top ten finish next season. Who knows what might happen though, I mean, this league is so unpredictably. Who thought a Sao Paulo team boasting this kid would be relegated? Improvements will be needed, in both the playing staff and backroom staff.

----------------------------------------


Club career:

2011 - Ceará - Brazilian First Division - 11^th

[Sears]

Pre Season: January - March 2012

Transfers out


Yep, a major clear out. Tbh, it was necessary. Although I said I was pleased with my squad, it was obvious we needed to sell the average Joe's and recruit players of better standard. Another player will be leaving shortly,in a deal worth a mega £1 million.

Transfers in


You guys should definitely know two players from that list, Dodó (that amazing LB that was once linked with Manchester United!!) and Romário. Both players have the potential to become leading full backs in the Brazilian First Division, and to be quiet honest, I'm shocked that they actually agreed to join us, as other teams lurked as while.

Derley joined us for a cool £550,000. He instantly became one of my best players, he's a rock in the DM position.

I managed to resign Thiago Humberto on a two year loan deal (class right?). He will be rotated around midfield.

Also coming in on loan is Welton Felipe, who's been absolutely phenomenal since he's joined us. When I have some money again, I will sign him permanently.

This one is for the old timers .... Anyone remember this guy?. A former player of German giants Schalkle, and Turkish side Galatasary. Lincoln was successfully lured to see out his footballing days at Ceará. Obviously he no longer has the legs to play week in, week out, but he surely will be a major asset to have on the bench!

Labelled a waste of £1.2 million, not wanted, a needless signing, but Paulo Miranda has had a blistering start to his Cereá career. He and Welton Felipe are a fantastic partnership at the heart of my defense, their amazing together.

I then began to search for a creative midfielder, and found this guy, Franco Vázquez, whom I signed for just £600,000. Currently retraining him to the CM position, seeing as I don't play with an AM.

Last but not least, here's Jonas, a terrific right back and Ceará most expensive signing ever (I think?). Anyway, the guy is incredible. Mind, it took me an age to get his club to accept an offer.

Squad - With the transfers finished and now that my team is sorted, that's how my first team is looking. Pleased to see that we have depth in every position, now hopefully we can endure a decent season, maybe a top ten finish or something along those lines.

Edit - Just managed to loan another player, this time Matías Defederico arrives to add more depth up front. I was on the search for someone who could play off the main striker,and he fits the requirements. He's quick, skillful and is a decent finisher.

[Sears]

Brazilian Ceará State Championship 2012

Opening Stage - I know we had it easy; very easy in fact .... However, the other teams are all sh*te tbh, it's like putting Man United into the Championship or even League 1! Anyway, we hammered most teams, and proceeded to the final, where we defeated Icasa in a tight final.

Closing Stage - We didn't quite dominate as much as we did during the opening stage. Nevertheless, some impressive victories saw us reach the final, where again we met and defeated Icasa.

Overall League - Just to show you straightforward it was to win this State Championship. I'm the only team in the 1^st division of the Brazilian League, all the others are in the lower leagues.

Squad - We are by far far the strongest team in this State at the moment, none of the other teams stand a chance against us. I'm looking forward to more testing games in the league.

Key player profiles:

Welton Felipe - An absolute rock at the back, and even better from set pieces! I know I'm exploiting the corner set piece, but really, it isn't actually cheating, depending on your opinion of course.

Dodo - 14 assists in 15 games from my left back, and a goal to top that off? Amazing. This guy is amazing. His poor defensive abilities don't hinder his performances either.

Careca - Careca was incredible from his central midfield - support role. He hit double figures for both assisting and scoring goals ... What more could I ask for?!?!

Franco Vázquez - Not a natural at CM, but he's well worth the £600,000 I departed with to bring him to the club. 9 assists in 9 (2) games is a fantastic return.

Misael - Misael returned from loan at the end of last seasons campaign. He instantly became one of my favorite players for his superb goal exploits. I havn't settled on his partner yet; Osvaldo got the nod at first, but since Defederico joined, his my preferred partner as he plays excellent as a Trequartista.

Club career:

2011 - Ceará - Brazilian First Division - 11^th

2012 - Ceará - Ceará State Champions Winners, Brazilian First Division N/A

[Sears]

Ceará - Brazilian National First Division 2012


Last season I took the Ceará job, and finished 11th. So far this season, I've won the Ceará State Championship. In the league, we were predicated 17^th, but following some good signings in the transfer window, I was hoping for at least a mid table finish ...

League Table
League Positions Graph

This league is very unusual. Not only am I amazed we won the title, the lack of goals scored by all the team confuses me. I am managing in Brazil right? I also thought Brazilian were known to be notoriously bad at defending; and phenomenal when attacking. I mean, how could a Santos team boasting Ganso and Neymar just score 30 goals? It's crazy. Anyway, we were in first place for 37 out of the 38 games of the season, which showed how consistent we were. We endured a few dodgy moments, but nothing too serious. Delighted that we were crowned champions, it really was one of the best experiences I've had playing Football Manager, and my most unexpected title triumph.

Fixtures Part 1
Fixtures Part 2

Brazilian Cup - Disappointed to lose out on away goals, I really thought we had the beating of Fluminense. A poor last minute equalizer set up a tough away game, a game in which we didn't really show up in. All in all, we did well to reach the quarter final, but we could have gone further in this competition.

Copa Sudemericana - We lost in the early rounds of this competition last season, however this season I was keen on going further. We narrowly defeated America (MG), then breezed past Colo Colo, which set up a tie with Brazilian side Bahia. We dominated the 1^st leg, and prevailed after a 2-1 defeat in the 2^nd leg. In the semi,we'd to play Boca, and I thought to myself, there's no way we have a chance of knocking these guys out. A stunning 4-0 away win all but ensured our passage in to the final. We drew at home which meant Ceará and qualified for their first ever Copa Sudemericana final ever against Atlético Mineiro! In the first leg,Anderson was sent off before half time, but fortunately we hung on for a 2-2 draw.. In the 2nd leg, in a fantastic performance, we smashed 4 goals past them in one of the most sided finals you'll ever see and a brilliant performance from Osvaldo!

Transfers - I've already showed you guys my signings, nothing much happened in this department during the course of the season. A few guys left on free transfer, but that's just about as exciting as it got.

Squad - As mentioned already, a few players left on free transfer, which is why my squad has gotten so small. Careca and Michel will leave on a free transfer, and Lincoln has decided to retire. Reinforcements will definitely be required if we are to challenge for major honers against next season. My goalkeeper is fine, as is my defense, although we'll need an extra CB or two. Midfield will need some heavy strengthening, and I will be on the look out for a a new striker or two. Misael wasn't good enough in the league, most of his goals were scored during the State Championship.

Finances - They are extremely healthy. We made a profit during most months during the season, though I'm not to sure how long more this pattern will continue for as we really need to bring in more quality players.

Key Player Profiles:

Welton Felipe - A rock throughout the season, and an absolute beast from corners.

Dodo - An amazing season from my new LB. Hoping for more of the same next season.

Careca - He's ageing now, and I chose not to renew his contract despite him having an excellent campaign from central midfield. Will be missed hugely but I want to give a chance to the younger players.

Osvaldo - My top goalscorer - again.

Franco Vázquez - Very pleased with Franco's first season, he should improve more next season.

Next Season

Whether we can retain our title I'm not sure. We need to heavily strengthen again as we replace the old players with younger ones, I'll begin my scouting almost immediately. We will also be participating in the Copa Libertadores too which I hope to do well in.

Club career:

2011 - Ceará - Brazilian First Division - 11th

2012 - Ceará - Ceará State Champions Winners, Brazilian First Division Winners, Copa Sudemericana Winners, Brazilian Cup Quarter Finalists

Edited by Sears, 22 December 2011 - 02:39 PM.

[Sears]

Unfortunately, I decided to resign as Ceará boss. It was a difficult decision to make, but it's the right one. My reputation is considered continental, but I was laughed off from all the jobs outside of Brazil. Even teams in the BSP laughed me off

Then this happened. It didn't take me long to accept. The squad is decent, although I've already transfer listed most player and relegated them to the u23's team. I've also noticed 2 of my best center backs are out on loan :mad: Other than that, the club looks great. The finances are extremely healthy, as are the facilities.

[Sears]

Pre Season Transfers 2013

Transfers out


When I arrived at the club, the first think I noticed was that my best two center backs were sent out on loan. Manoel is on loan at Corinthians, and Antonio Carlos is on loan at Botafogo, until 30/6/14 ffs! The other players that departed were surplus to requirements, an I wanted to get id of their ott wages as well.

Transfers in


A lot of money was spent, but we needed reinforcements. I inherited a decent squad, but for us to challenge for any trophy this season, new quality players had to come in, and they did.

Felipe Guitiérrez - Season long loan, from Universidad Católica (Chile)

One of my best midfielders, even though his natural position is on the left wing. Just about the only good thing the previous manager did was sign this guy on loan

Mauricio - €2.9 million, from Terek (Russia)

Mauricio is an all round brilliant midfielder, and just the type of player I was searching for. A shrewd investment IMO.

Jefferson - €4000k, from OGC Nice (France)

An absolute bargain. He's not as good as Dodo, but he fills one of my weakest positions on the team perfectly.

Thiago Heleno - €1.7 million, from Palmeries (Brazil)

I was very close to signing this player for Ceará before I resigned. Bought him rather cheaply from recently relegated Palmeries. Top drawer center back.

Gabriel Hauche - €1.7 million, from Racing Club (Argentina)

Scored 4 goals on his debut, will undoubtedly be an extremely important player for us this campaign. Another player I was gonna sign with Ceará. Bargain!!

Márcio Araújo - €800,000k, from Palmeries (Brazil)

Was bought just to add more depth to the midfield area, started most games though and has impressed me.

Luan - €1.7 million, from Palermies (again!) (Brazil)

Jeez, I really raided Palmeries didn't I?!? Another player who adds depth to a few positions, which is really important as we play far to many games in one season, it almost borders on insanity. My goalkeeper played 80 games during the whole season when I managed Ceará.

Ananias - €3.5 million, from Bahia (Brazil)

I'm delighted I signed Ananias! I used monthly installments to pay for a portion of the deal, but most of the fee was paid up front. An amazing player, and still very young.

Squad - I'm content with my squad, it's nothing amazing but it's quite capable of doing well. I've enough depth for all positions to cope with the huge fixture list we'll have this season. I'm not to sure what to expect when our league campaign begins. With Ceará, we were predicated to struggle, but we won the treble. This league is very unusual, most of the 'big' teams always seem to struggle. We could win every trophy this season, or finish empty handed - I really don't know what is going to happen.

Club career:

2011 - Ceará - Brazilian First Division - 11th

2012 - Ceará - Ceará State Champions Winners, Brazilian First Division Winners, Copa Sudemericana Winners, Brazilian Cup Quarter Finalists

2013 - Atlético Paranaenese

Edited by Sears, 22 December 2011 - 03:17 PM.

[Sears]

Atlético Paranaense - Campeonato Paranaense Série Ouro - 2013



After winning the State Championship with Ceará, I wanted to continue my success with Atlético. We had a few more decent teams in our State, but we one of the favorites so I was hoping to secure my first piece of silverware.

Open - Took a while for my players to settle, I wasn't really convinced by our performances. I was hoping that we would have been more clinical in our finishing. Needless to say, my defense was superb.

Close - We were much better in the closing stage, as we won all of our fixtures.

Overall League Table - That's it, no play offs, were champions. We dominated from start to finish, and as long as I remain here, this should be an easy piece of silverware to win.

Squad - Overall, I'm content with my squad. However, they havn't convinced me yet. Not sure what way the league will go, I really want a go at the Copa Libertadores, though I'm not sure I'll get a chance with this team. Who knows.

Club career:

2011 - Ceará - Brazilian First Division - 11th

2012 - Ceará - Ceará State Champions Winners, Brazilian First Division Winners, Copa Sudemericana Winners, Brazilian Cup Quarter Finalists

2013 - Atlético Paranaenese - Campeonato Paranaense Série Ouro Winners

Edited by Sears, 22 December 2011 - 11:02 PM.

[Sears]

I love this rule. Won the first leg so we don't need to play the 2nd

[Conor11]

Really interesting game you have here mate. Think I will start in Brazil next time I am struggling to get into a game

[Sears]

Yeah do mate. Fun place to manage

We got off to a bad start, so I revamped my tactic and now we've improved hugely. Might post it up sometime if the brilliant results continue

[Sears]

Results before tactical change - The 3-0 defeat to Gremio really took the biscuit, after that I knew things had to change, and fast. Morale was alarmingly low, I fined most of my starting XI at least 1/2 weeks wages, and they were not one bit pleased. Thankfully I only screwed up two of the private conversations, otherwise I would have had the whole bloody squad looking for my head

Results after tactical change - Decided to totally revamp my tactic. I read a story where someone used a 4-2-3-1 formation, and it did fantastically well, so I decided to try it. It had devastating effect. We went from relegation candidates to storming to the top of the table, and thus creating a comfortable 10 point gap between ourselves and Santos.

League table - Things I must say, are looking extremely well. Our defense has improved enormously, and were certainly not goal shy, compared to the other teams.

New tactic - That's it. Pretty simple really, I didn't fiddle with any player instructions. I wanted some Irish aggression, and Brazilian flair. My defense is as mean as fuck, and my forwards are ruthless. I normally quit the game when the sh*t hits the fan, but I didn't. I chanced my luck with a different tactic and fortunately for me my luck paid off.

[Conor11]

Wow, results really picked up, only two points dropped since you started using your new tactic

[Sears]

 Conor11, on 24 December 2011 - 10:13 AM, said:

Wow, results really picked up, only two points dropped since you started using your new tactic

Yeah, and we've beaten the 'better' teams quite comfortably as well

[Sears]

Qualified for the Copa Libertadores with 7 games remaining