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Oct 21, 2026, 1:20 PM GMT+1
Ryan Kelly is an editor at GIVEMESPORT with a focus on evergreen content.
He has worked in the realm of digital sports media for 15 years, donning various different hats. Starting out as a reporter, copywriter and features writer, he served as chief editor of GOAL's Ireland desk before joining the organisation's central English language editorial team. There, he worked as a duty editor and website manager, and later specialised in the creation of informational content designed to educate readers.
During his time at GOAL, Ryan played a part in the coverage of seven major tournaments, including four European Championships and three World Cups. He has also covered some of the biggest moments in Irish football for outlets such as GOAL, the Irish Times and the Irish Independent.
Ryan has a particular interest in the intersection of sport, culture and politics.
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The latest instalment of the Football Manager soccer management simulation game, Football Manager 27, will hit screens this November and fans of the franchise will be able to play the game for free for a limited period.
The 'Launch Preview' replaces what was previously known as the 'Beta' or 'Advanced Access' window and it will be available to play for free on PC and Mac.
If you're wondering about investing your hard-earned cash into the game, but would like a sample before taking the plunge, here's how to play FM 27 for free.
In order to play Football Manager 27 for free, you simply need to 'Wishlist' the game on your preferred platform - Steam, Epic, Microsoft Store, Xbox Game Pass or PC Game Pass — to get notified when it is available to play.
The free-play period for Football Manager 27 begins at 6pm BST (1pm ET) on October 29 and runs for five days until November 3. All game modes are available and there is no additional sign-up required. If you begin the game on Game Pass, you will be able to continue the progress through your subscription.
As well as the Launch Preview free-play period, Football Manager will also open the pre-purchase window, which will allow gamers to buy the game and continue enjoying early access ahead of the worldwide release date on November 10.
The official worldwide Football Manager release date is November 10, 2026.
However, the early access period will begin on October 29, 2026, two weeks ahead of launch.
Did it happen before or after?
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