Virtual Bonds: The Fantasy of Football Manager

This chapter explores the deep emotional connections fans form with virtual players in the Football Manager game, using the story of Nick McCutty as a focal point. It examines how these relationships blend reality and fantasy, highlighting how gaming experiences can shape perceptions of real-life athletes and cultural narratives. Additionally, the chapter reflects on the nostalgia associated with new, randomly generated players and the challenges of managing lower league teams, encapsulating the joys and frustrations of football management.