The Football Manager series has become the go-to game for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of professional football.

Its incredible attention to detail, outstanding realism and addictive gameplay has made it the most played sports management simulation in the world.

Every year we all eagerly anticipate the release of the latest edition, with updated squads, players stats and a first look at who the next most exciting wonderkid is likely to be.

And we don't have long to wait until Football Manager 2018 reaches the shelves - Sports Interactive have today announced the new edition will be ready for action on Friday, November 10.

Whats more, anyone who pre-purchases FM18 (for PC, Mac or Linux) through a SEGA approved digital retailer* will be able to start pre-season at least two weeks prior to the full official release through a fully-playable Beta version.

Additionally, those who pre-purchase FM18 before Monday, October 8 and have FM17 in their Steam Library will receive a 'Contract Extension Bonus' discount of 25% off their purchase via Steam of the SEGA Store.

That's not all the great news, either. This year, for the first time, all three versions of the game, FM18, FM18 Touch and FM18 Mobile will all be released on the same day!

Excited? We definitely are! Keep an eye out for the first details of FM18's new features and updates from the Football Manager website and their social media channels in late September.

Until then, sit tight, boot up your latest FM17 save and count down the days before everyone's favourite football game returns.

*Pre-release Beta is available from SEGA approved digital retailers only; please check here for an exhaustive list of digital retailers and more details as to what constitutes a SEGA approved retailer.