The infamously addictive game returned on November 8th with it’s 2022 edition, taking an even deeper dive into the world of football management, adding a shiny new data hub and an improved match engine to its already extensive take on life in the dugout.
For a bit of fun, we've fired up the newly released productivity-devastator, and sent the game three years into the future to see how Aston Villa line up on the first day of the 2024/25 season.
Take a look at how the game predicts Villa’s matchday squad will look as they prepare for a season opener against Watford:
9. AMR: Emiliano Buendia
The only player bought with the so-called "Jack Grealish money" who has lasted the distance at Villa Park, Buendia has 20 goals in 93 appearances overall. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images) Photo: Steve Bardens
10. AML: Mohamed Daramy
A product of Ajax's famed youth system, Daramy is still only 22 in 2024, but already has nine Denmark caps to his name. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images) Photo: Dean Mouhtaropoulos
11. STC: Abel Ruiz
Once of Barcelona, Ruiz spent a fruitful spell in Portugal before signing for Villa in 2023 for a fee of around £19 million. He's notched 17 times in 41 outings since then. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Photo: David Ramos
12. Sub 1: Ivan Nevistic
Another signing from Dinamo Zagreb, the 26-year-old has made just two appearances in two years for Villa. (Photo by FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: FILIPPO MONTEFORTE