Whilst Jay from the Inbetweeners might have lied about completing Football Manager or Championship Manager it was called then, I actually have. Okay, maybe I lied too, but I have taken a couple non-league sides to the Premier League in FM24. With my expert knowledge, I am bringing you the best three non-league sides I think you should start with in FM 26. By the way, you might have to download the lower tiers database for this.
1. Kingstonian
Based in the Isthmian League South Central Division, Kingstonian are as local as you can get for Kingston Students as they play at Prince George Playing Fields in Raynes Park. Never making it out of non-league, they were recently relegated in the 2023-24 season from the Isthmian Premier after 15 years in the league. Their biggest success was winning the FA Vase twice respectively in 1999 and 2000. However, the locals want more. Now this is where you come in. You can be the first manager to bring Kingstonian to the big leagues and would be considered a local hero. Be wary of the tight budget, as getting the club in debt might mean you have to sacrifice your student loan.
2. Dorking Wanderers
Now how could you not want to manage Dorking? They were only formed under 30 years ago and have had an astronomical rise up the football pyramid as they sit in the Vanarama South. Marc White will reluctantly let you manage whilst he sits back as the chairman, but you can’t let him down or you’ll hear about it. They’ve never been in the EFL either so you could make history. You might also feature in a documentary if you’re lucky. Definitely a great option for your first non-league save. My advice would be to never sell Alfie Rutherford; he will get you 20 goals a season guaranteed.
3. AFC Fylde
Backed by a wealthy owner, you have money at your disposal. But remember, don’t spend it all at once as non-league takes no prisoners. If you like marquee non-league signings, AFC Fylde is the team for you. Based in Lancashire expect a long journey to each game. Nonetheless, off their recent relegation from the Vanarama National, you have the expectation to bring them back to where they belong. If you are a new FM player then maybe this one isn’t for you. There be a lot of pressure on you to produce good results, so be aware.
