Starting a Save with Ilves – A Hidden Gem in Finnish Football!
Hey everyone! I'm kicking off a Football Manager save with Ilves, a club from the Finnish Veikkausliiga, and I wanted to share a bit about them in case anyone else is looking for an interesting challenge.
Why Ilves?
Ilves, based in Tampere, is one of Finland’s most well-known clubs, boasting a strong youth academy and a rich history. While they aren’t the dominant force in Finnish football, they have a passionate fan base, a solid squad with exciting prospects, and a chance to break HJK’s stranglehold on the league.
A Quick History
Founded in 1931, Ilves has had its ups and downs, winning the Finnish championship in 1983 but spending much of the 90s and early 2000s outside the top flight. They’ve rebuilt themselves as a competitive side, regularly finishing in the top half of the Veikkausliiga and qualifying for European competitions.
What Makes Them Fun to Manage?
Youth Development – Ilves has a great academy with several talented youngsters, perfect for a long-term save.
Breaking the HJK Monopoly – Helsinki-based HJK has dominated Finnish football for years. Can you dethrone them?
European Adventures – Finland’s league is a stepping stone for European qualification. Winning the league or Finnish Cup gives you a chance to test yourself in Champions League or Europa Conference League qualifiers.
Underdog Mentality – Ilves isn’t the biggest club, but with smart recruitment and tactical planning, they can become a Finnish powerhouse.
Challenges & Goals for the Save
Win the Veikkausliiga within a few seasons.
Develop a golden generation of Finnish talent.
Make a name in Europe – Get past the qualifiers and make a deep run in continental competition.
Build Ilves into Finland’s No.1 club, surpassing HJK in league titles and prestige.
If anyone has managed in Finland before or has tips for success, let me know! Also, if you're looking for a different kind of FM save, I’d definitely recommend giving Ilves a go. Anyone else played in Finland?
Hey everyone! I'm kicking off a Football Manager save with Ilves, a club from the Finnish Veikkausliiga, and I wanted to share a bit about them in case anyone else is looking for an interesting challenge.
Why Ilves?
Ilves, based in Tampere, is one of Finland’s most well-known clubs, boasting a strong youth academy and a rich history. While they aren’t the dominant force in Finnish football, they have a passionate fan base, a solid squad with exciting prospects, and a chance to break HJK’s stranglehold on the league.
A Quick History
Founded in 1931, Ilves has had its ups and downs, winning the Finnish championship in 1983 but spending much of the 90s and early 2000s outside the top flight. They’ve rebuilt themselves as a competitive side, regularly finishing in the top half of the Veikkausliiga and qualifying for European competitions.
What Makes Them Fun to Manage?
Youth Development – Ilves has a great academy with several talented youngsters, perfect for a long-term save.
Breaking the HJK Monopoly – Helsinki-based HJK has dominated Finnish football for years. Can you dethrone them?
European Adventures – Finland’s league is a stepping stone for European qualification. Winning the league or Finnish Cup gives you a chance to test yourself in Champions League or Europa Conference League qualifiers.
Underdog Mentality – Ilves isn’t the biggest club, but with smart recruitment and tactical planning, they can become a Finnish powerhouse.
Challenges & Goals for the Save
Win the Veikkausliiga within a few seasons.
Develop a golden generation of Finnish talent.
Make a name in Europe – Get past the qualifiers and make a deep run in continental competition.
Build Ilves into Finland’s No.1 club, surpassing HJK in league titles and prestige.
If anyone has managed in Finland before or has tips for success, let me know! Also, if you're looking for a different kind of FM save, I’d definitely recommend giving Ilves a go. Anyone else played in Finland?