Two long years have passed since the last Football Manager video game hit store shelves. It’s been a difficult time for football and gaming fans everywhere as they count down the days to when they can finally manage their favourite teams, sign the world’s best up-and-coming players, and compete for the sport’s most prestigious honours.

Yes, you may have to wait a few weeks to get your hands on FM26, with release scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, but why not get a quick taster before the big day? You read that right. Once again, Sports Interactive is running a two-week early access beta allowing players to try the game before it releases, giving the developers a chance to iron out any pesky bugs before making it live for the millions.

When is the FM26 Early Access?

The Football Manager 26 beta, which is slated to run for two weeks, will officially begin on Thursday, October 23 at 5pm BST. For those of you in different countries and timezones, however, please see the breakdown below:

• US Central (CDT) – 11am
• US West Coast (PDT) – 9am
• US Eastern (EDT) – 12pm
• US Mountain (MDT) – 10am
• Central Europe (CEST) – 6pm
• Japan (JST) – 1am on Friday, October 24
• Australia East Coast (AEDT) – 3am on Friday, October 24
• New Zealand (NZDT) – 5am on Friday, October 24

How to access the FM26 beta

Playing Football Manager 26 early is a relatively straightforward process; all you have to do is pre-order the game.

The early access window is only available for players on PC and Mac — apologies console gamers, you’ll have to wait until release.

And if you’re worried you’re going to lose your save data from the beta, worry no longer as you’ll be able to continue them when the full game goes live.

How to pre-order FM26

• Football Manager 26 on PC: Steam, Epic Games and Windows (£45) – click here for more details
• Football Manager 26 Console: Xbox Series X/S and PS5 (£44.99)