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7 PES 2018 tips to help you conquer Master League
Pro Evolution Soccer's brilliant manager mode has been upgraded – here's how to get the most out of it
Master League, Pro Evolution Soccer's excellent manager mode, is the thing that all PES fans want to dominate. The classic mode been upgraded for PES 2018, with pre-season tournaments and an improved transfer system.
Here are seven top tips that will help you get the most out of PES 2018's Master League, and lead your team to glory!
1. Try Challenge mode
Challenge mode makes Master League tougher
© Konami / PES Productions
For dedicated series veterans, Master League's standard format can prove a little too easy. PES 2018 heightens the mode's difficulty by introducing an optional Challenge feature, with far tougher negotiation procedures for both squad members and transfer targets, as well as the possibility of being sacked if your performances aren't up to scratch.
The excellent new feature is built to serve football purists, offering a more realistic approach to the world of football management. You'll have to work longer and harder for your successes, but it'll feel twice as satisfying in the long run.
2. Pick these Master League original players
Master League lineup is tougher
© Konami / PES Productions
Keep an eye on L. Giorza, E. Castledine, Q. Arcas and T. Matthiessen
When you begin a new career in Master League, you'll be given the choice to pick from existing or fictional players. The latter option has become a fan favourite over the years, but keep in mind that by doing this, you'll be equipped with a set of less-than-impressive footballers, adding to the mode's difficulty.
If you're going to pick the originals, prepare for a tough few months as your players develop their skills and Team Spirit levels. Keep an eye on L. Giorza, E. Castledine, Q. Arcas and T. Matthiessen as young talents who can develop far beyond their current abilities in time.
3. Listen to your owner
Keep your owner happy or you'll be sacked
© Konami / PES Productions
PES 2018's Master League mode features club owners this year. Ahead of the season, your team's owner will message you to provide set goals such as finishing above a certain position, and they'll also provide status updates in key scenarios – for example, when you're facing a rival team in an upcoming match.
You can keep an eye on how satisfied your owner is with your performance by heading to the Team Status screen and seeking out the Owner's Trust meter. Challenge mode players take note – if your owner grows tired of your performances, you could soon be out of a job.
4. Expect a tough start
You'll get better when your players begin to gel
© Konami / PES Productions
Keep in mind that giving players constant playing time is also useful to help build player loyalty and satisfaction.
Don’t be surprised if you struggle to rack up the wins during the first few weeks. There are a range of factors that affect how your team performs on the pitch – the most crucial of these is Team Spirit, which gradually rises based on your success and as your players adapt to your team instructions.
As this rating system drifts closer to the 100 mark, you'll notice a significant difference in how your team plays. Keep in mind that giving players constant playing time is also useful to help build player loyalty and satisfaction.
5. Watch your salary budget
You might get a bonus if you stick to your budget
© Konami / PES Productions
Although your side's transfer budget may drift well into the millions, don't go splashing the cash just yet. Salary budgets are far more stingy, and need to be taken in account for everything from signing youth players to renegotiating contracts (featuring all-new release fees) with members of your squad.
If you push the boat out, you might just find yourself in a heap of trouble down the line. The best way to keep track of this is to navigate to the Finance screen where you can view your current and upcoming season's projected budgets. Occasionally, your owner might throw in a lucrative bonus, too.
6. How to train your squad
You need to train your players to skill them up
© Konami / PES Productions
The Team Management screen houses an array of training options to help tailor your squad to your needs. You can set individual players to train in a specific role (creative playmaker, anchor man, etc), or simply provide more focused training for shooting, speed and a range of additional key areas.
Also, skills can be learned by players with a set level of ability, while some members can be automatically designated a Team Role, affecting not only their performance, but that of their team-mates around them. Don't forget to train your youth players as well – another brand-new feature in PES 2018.
7. Explore the world!
Experience the atmosphere of match day in Brazil
© Konami / PES Productions
The dream for many Master League managers is to turn their side into world-beaters. However, you should also look at offers from across the world to experience unique atmospheres, presentation packages, stadiums and more.
By accepting new offers across the world, you'll get to experience far more of PES' feature suite than you ever knew existed. International management is also an option, allowing you to combine your club duties with taking a national team to the pinnacle of world football.
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