As excitement around Arsenal’s prospects this season continues to grow following the notable progress made last campaign and through recent acquisitions like Declan Rice, Gunners fans can be forgiven for expecting silverware this season. In order to fight off some of the undoubted pressure that will come their way, though, Arsenal fans need to switch off from the football on occasions. Thankfully, that’s where gaming comes in.

Just like fans of other clubs in England’s top flight, the gruelling campaign can throw up a mixture of emotions. As such, combatting any frustrations in the real world with a gaming escape in a virtual environment is the perfect antidote. For fans of the beautiful game, there are some seriously solid football-themed products to session that are capable of providing plenty of entertainment. Let’s take a look at some of the go-to options among the football community right now.

Football Manager 2023 is still adored

In terms of management titles, Football Manager 2023 is easily the best game around. As players aim to replicate the FA Cup success of Mikel Arteta and reign supreme in the Champions League like his long-term friend Pep Guardiola managed to achieve, this challenging management release throws up a number of tough moments. Players want to leave, tactics don’t always work, the board might not be happy, fans can revolt, and everything else that typically occurs in the real world. Football Manager 2023 is one of the most realistic football games ever.

EA FC promises to be huge

Although there isn’t too much information on how exactly EA FC will differ compared to FIFA, the FIFA replacement is expected to record huge numbers when it’s releases in late September. The first non-FIFA game from EA’s incredibly successful catalogue of football releases, Erling Haaland is the face of the game in what promises to be a serious feast of football. Whether or not EA FC will be able to surpass much-loved products like FIFA remains to be seen, but there is no denying that fans everywhere will be playing the game when it arrives. 

Sports-themed slots like 11 Champions and All Win FC appeal

Slot games are particularly popular right now, especially games with a football theme. Sports-themed slots like 11 Champions and All Win FC particularly appeal, with both titles providing a strong, beautiful game feel. Both releases are by Microgaming and feature numerous football elements, from jerseys and footballs to crowd noise and diving goalkeepers. They’re easy to grasp, they can be enjoyed at half-time via a smartphone device, and they’re genuinely fun to sample.

eFootball has improved after teething problems

When it was initially released, a number of bugs hindered its progress. Now, though, since the bugs have been fixed and the game has been fine-tuned, eFootball is one of the top football-themed games to play right now. Live events and seasonal content separate eFootball out from many other releases in this area, while the ability to play as some of European football’s biggest clubs also appeals. From Dream Team to Master League, there is plenty to get through in this impressive football product.

Rocket League is a blast

Yes, Rocket League isn’t exactly a football game, but it provides enough soccer elements to make it a fun game to session. Controlling high-powered tiny vehicles, players have to score their way to glory in this chaotic masterpiece that is doing so well in the esports environment. A blast to throw yourself into, Rocket League is extremely entertaining. Be it in a classic 3v3 showdown or a tense 1v1 encounter, it’s a joy to play.