Championship Manager 01 02 Best Players 3.9.68
Buy these players at 16–19 for long-term dominance.
| Player | Club | Age | Position | Peak rating | |--------|------|-----|----------|-------------| | Jermain Defoe | West Ham | 18 | ST | World-class | | John Welsh | Liverpool | 17 | DM/M C | Next Gerrard | | Carlos Martins | Sporting (POR) | 18 | AM C | Playmaker god | | Anatoli Todorov | Litex (BUL) | 16 | ST | Cheap Tsigalko clone | | Mikael Dorsin | Rosenborg (NOR) | 19 | D/DM L | Solid left-back | | Razvan Rat | Rapid Bucharest (ROM) | 20 | D/DM L | Fast, consistent |
Database 3.9.68 for Championship Manager 01/02 adds and tweaks many youngsters and some low-league gems while retaining the game’s established superstars as dominant choices. For long-term success: prioritize scouting in smaller leagues, sign high-potential youngsters early, and pair them with experienced mentors for development.
If you want, I can:
Championship Manager 01/02 remains the gold standard of football management simulations, and the 3.9.68 data update is widely considered the definitive way to experience it. Whether you are looking to conquer the Premier League or climb from the Conference, knowing which players to target is the difference between a trophy parade and a mid-season sacking.
Here is the comprehensive guide to the best players in CM 01/02 under the 3.9.68 patch. The Legendary Cheat Codes
There are certain players in this database who transcend normal statistics. These are the "must-buys" that can turn a mid-table side into European champions overnight.
Topping every list is Tonton Zola Moukoko. Available for a pittance from Derby County, this attacking midfielder develops into the best player in the world within two seasons. Similarly, Cherno Samba at Millwall is the ultimate investment. He is a teenage striker who eventually guarantees 30 to 40 goals per season.
In the attacking midfield role, Mark Siguta and Julius Aghahowa are essential. Aghahowa, playing for Shakhtar, is a physical powerhouse with incredible pace and finishing. Siguta is a cheaper alternative who consistently over-performs his modest attributes. Defending the Goal
A solid foundation starts at the back. For the goalkeeper position, Dionisis Chiotis at AEK Athens is the undisputed king of the 3.9.68 update. He is incredibly cheap and consistently achieves the highest average ratings in the game. If you have a larger budget, Francesco Toldo and Gianluigi Buffon are the elite choices, but Chiotis is the pound-for-pound winner.
For your central defense, look no further than Ibrahim Said. He is versatile, strong, and available for a low fee from Al-Ahly. If you need a veteran presence, Taribo West is often available on a free transfer at the start of the game and can solidify any backline for at least three seasons. Dominating the Midfield
Winning the battle in the engine room requires a mix of steel and silk. Mark Kerr is the most famous "wonderkid" midfielder in the game. Playing for Falkirk, he can be signed for around £300k and will dominate the midfield for fifteen years.
If you need a more defensive presence, Stefan Selakovic is a versatile Swedish midfielder who can play almost anywhere but excels at breaking up play. For flair on the wings, Kennedy Bakircioglu and Alexandros Papadopoulos provide high-quality service for very low transfer fees. The Ultimate Goalscorers
While Samba is the long-term project, you might need immediate goals. Maxim Tsigalko (often spelled Tsygalko) is the most prolific striker in the history of the franchise. Playing for Dinamo Minsk, he usually costs less than £1M and will frequently score 50+ goals in a single campaign.
Another legendary figure is To Madeira. Though he was famously a fictional player inserted by a scout, in the 3.9.68 database, he is a goal-scoring machine for Gouveia. If you prefer a more "realistic" powerhouse, Pawel Brozek and Sergey Nikiforenko are reliable options that rarely fail to find the net. Essential Bargain Hunting
If you are managing a club with a restricted budget, the 3.9.68 update offers several gems:
Assane N'Diaye: A rock-solid defender available for very little. João Paiva: A young striker who develops rapidly. Saidou: A tireless defensive midfielder.
Isaac Okoronkwo: A versatile defender who can jump into any top-flight team.
Success in CM 01/02 3.9.68 isn't just about finding the best players; it's about finding them before the big clubs do. Scout these names on day one, and you’ll be well on your way to legendary status.
Championship Manager 01/02 patch 3.9.68 (the final official update), player selection shifts slightly due to the nerfing of some legendary "Super Greeks" found in earlier versions. While icons like Maxim Tsigalko and Tonton Zola Moukoko
remain top-tier, this version is widely praised for its balance and the longevity of its "hidden gems". Essential Free Agents
These players are available at the start of a save for no transfer fee and should be your first targets regardless of your club's size: Taribo West
(D LC): The ultimate free signing. Though harder to convince than in earlier patches, he remains world-class for several seasons. Alonso Solis
(AM C): A creative force who often demands a higher wage but provides immediate elite-level impact. Montenegro
(AM L): A fantastic left-wing option who consistently performs well in high-level leagues. Sergio Lara
(AM R): Excellent work rate and crossing; a reliable free option for the right flank. Top-Tier "Must Buys" (Under £1M) Maxim Tsigalko
(SC): Still the game's greatest goal machine. Costing around £2M from Dinamo Minsk, he routinely scores 50+ goals per season.
(MC): Often cited as the first player you should buy. He dominates the midfield with elite determination and work rate.
(D/AM R): A versatile legend who can play across the entire right side and often reaches world-class status. Tó Madeira
(SC): A legendary "cheat" player found at Gouveia (requires a large database). He is virtually guaranteed to score every game. Hugo Pinheiro
(GK): A young, cheap goalkeeper from Portugal who develops into one of the best in the game. Fredrik Risp championship manager 01 02 best players 3.9.68
(DC): A reliable, inexpensive Swedish center-back who is a cornerstone for any defense. Elite Wonderkids (High Value)
If you are managing a top-tier club with a large budget, these young stars are the premier investments: 3.9.68] - Championship Manager 2001/2002 Forums
For fans of Championship Manager 01/02 3.9.68 patch represents the definitive version of the game, fixing critical bugs and refining the legendary "Super Greek" and Belarusian gems that became the stuff of gaming folklore
. While modern data updates exist for the 2024/25 season, the "pure" 3.9.68 experience remains focused on the original 2001 rosters. The "Unatouchable" God Tier
These players are not just recommendations; they are mandatory signings if you want to break the match engine. Ruud van Nistelrooy
The Ultimate Scouting Guide: Best Players in Championship Manager 01/02 (v3.9.68)
Decades after its release, Championship Manager 01/02 remains a pinnacle of football management simulation. For many purists, the 3.9.68 patch (the final official update) is the definitive way to play. This version balanced the "god-tier" wonderkids of the original database while preserving the legendary gameplay that made icons out of obscure players.
Whether you are managing a European giant or climbing the English lower leagues, these are the essential signings to secure early in your save. The Legendary Goal Machines
In v3.9.68, finding a reliable striker is the difference between mid-table obscurity and a treble.
Maxim Tsigalko (Dinamo Minsk): Even with the 3.9.68 adjustments, Tsigalko remains arguably the most famous player in CM history. For roughly £1M–£2M, you get a striker capable of scoring 50+ goals a season.
Tó Madeira (Gouveia): Though eventually revealed as a fictional scout-created player, he is still a "king" in the 3.9.68 database. He is a clinical finisher available for a nominal fee at the start of the game.
Pawel Brozek (Wisla): A high-potential wonderkid who develops into a world-class poacher.
Sergey Nikiforenko (Shakhtar Soligorsk): Often cited alongside Tsigalko as a Belarusian "cheat code," though he can sometimes be difficult to secure due to work permit issues. The "Super Swedes" and Scandinavian Gems
The Swedish league in CM 01/02 is a goldmine for elite talent at bargain prices. 3.9.68] - Championship Manager 2001/2002 Forums
The official 3.9.68 patch for Championship Manager 01/02 (often called the "Super Greeks" database) significantly boosted several Greek players while maintaining the legendary status of classic "cheat" players. Elite & "Cheat" Players
These are the world-class essentials that can carry almost any team: Maxim Tsigalko
(SC): Widely considered the greatest player in CM history, capable of scoring 50+ goals a season. To Madeira
(SC): A legendary "fictional" striker who remains a scoring machine in this version. Sergey Nikiforenko
(AMC/FC): A versatile legend often paired with Tsigalko; brilliant behind the striker. Anastasios Skalidis
(SC): A standout in the 3.9.68 patch, often averaging over a goal per game.
(MC): An absolute engine in midfield and usually the first signing for any manager. Top Prospects & Bargains
High-potential players available for low fees or as free agents: Dionisis Chiotis
(GK): One of the best goalkeepers in the game, a staple of the "Super Greeks" patch. Taribo West
(DC): A legendary free agent at the start of the game, though he can be difficult to sign for smaller clubs. Isaac Okoronkwo (DC/DLC): A reliable and affordable defensive powerhouse. Kim Källström
(AMC): A young Swedish talent who develops into a world-class playmaker.
(D/MR): A versatile defender/midfielder who is incredibly effective for his low price. Julius Aghahowa (FRLC): Known for his blistering pace and high potential. Position-Specific Recommendations Key Players Goalkeepers Hugo Pinheiro Franco Costanzo Dionisis Chiotis Defenders Fredrik Risp , Ibrahim Said , Tieme Klompe Midfielders Assane N'Diaye , Kennedy Bakircioglü , Andrés D'Alessandro Strikers Eldar Hadzimehmedovic Joao Paiva Pawel Brozek
In the cult classic Championship Manager 01/02 3.9.68 patch represents the definitive version of the game’s original data
. Often referred to as the "Super Greeks" database, this update shifted the landscape of "must-buy" players, cementing the status of certain legends while introducing a new wave of affordable icons. The Pantheon of Legends
The core appeal of version 3.9.68 is the reliability of its world-class "cheat" players. Regardless of your team's stature, these individuals often outperformed real-life superstars like Zinedine Zidane or Ronaldo. Maxim Tsigalko
: The undisputed king of the series. Playing for Dinamo Minsk, he remains the most prolific striker in management simulation history, capable of scoring 50+ goals a season for a modest fee of approximately £2m. To Madeira Buy these players at 16–19 for long-term dominance
: A legendary "fictional" scout-created player. While his availability depends on loading a large database, his attributes are consistently world-class.
: The ultimate midfield engine. Picked up from Falkirk for a bargain, his high work rate and tackling make him an essential first-day signing. Cherno Samba
: The Millwall wonderkid who rarely failed to reach the pinnacle of the world game. The "Super Greeks" Era
The 3.9.68 update is famous for an overpowered contingent of Greek talent that could dominate Europe for over a decade. Anastasios Skalidis : Often considered even better than
in this specific patch, boasting an incredible average of 1.25 goals per match Alexandros Papadopoulos
: A 15-year-old phenom at the start who evolves into a multi-million-pound superstar within seasons. Dionisis Chiotis
: One of the most reliable and affordable goalkeepers in the database. Nikolaos Tobros
: A young, powerhouse defender who anchors any backline for a fraction of the cost of established stars. Essential Bargains and Wonderkids
Beyond the legends, the .68 database is filled with "hidden gems" that provide top-tier quality for lower-league teams or bench depth for giants. Taribo West
: Available as a free agent at the start of the game, he is widely regarded as the best "freebie" signing in the game, though he requires high wages. Kim Källström
: A Swedish powerhouse known for his long-range shooting and creative output.
: A versatile right-back from Cheltenham who consistently performs at a world-class level regardless of the opposition. Isaac Okoronkwo
: A reliable, high-performing defender from Shakhtar Donetsk who is often easier to sign than many household names.
For more detailed community discussions or to find specific shortlists for your next save, enthusiasts often visit CM 01/02 Facebook Groups CMRevival blog for up-to-date tactics and scouting.
In the world of football management simulations, few titles hold as much legendary status as Championship Manager 01/02 . While the base game (v3.9.60) laid the foundation, the final official 3.9.68 patch
is widely considered the definitive way to experience this masterpiece. Beyond bug fixes, this update solidified a roster of "super players" whose attributes and performances became the stuff of gaming folklore. The Iconic "Cheat" Legends
Any discussion of the 3.9.68 database must begin with the players who practically guaranteed success, often referred to as "cheat" players due to their overpowered stats relative to their low cost. Maxim Tsigalko The undisputed king of
. A Belarusian striker available for a pittance from Dinamo Minsk,
frequently scored over 100 goals a season in the right tactic Tó Madeira
A fictional "scout" player included in the database. He is a world-class striker from the start, though he was eventually removed in later fan-made updates for being unrealistic. Julius Aghahowa
A Nigerian sensation at Shakhtar Donetsk. His blistering pace and versatility made him a target for every top club. Essential Defensive Foundations
Winning titles required more than just goalscorers; it required a sturdy spine. The 3.9.68 patch featured several affordable defensive stalwarts: Dionisis Chiotis
Often cited as the best goalkeeper in the game, he was a must-buy from AEK Athens. Taribo West Available as a free agent
at the start of the game, the veteran Nigerian defender provided immediate world-class quality to any backline. Isaac Okoronkwo
Another Shakhtar legend, known for his incredible physical attributes and consistency.
A legend of the lower leagues, the Cheltenham Town right-back could perform at the highest level and was available for a very low fee. The Engine Room: Midfield Maestros
The 3.9.68 database is famous for its "hidden gem" midfielders who could outplay global superstars:
The Falkirk midfielder is perhaps the most famous "bargain" central midfielder in the series' history, possessing elite work rate and passing. Kim Källström
A Swedish prodigy at BK Häcken with a legendary left foot. He consistently developed into one of the best attacking midfielders in the world. Kennedy Bakircioglü
Another Swedish staple, known for his creativity and goal-scoring threat from the wing or the center. Assane N'Diaye Championship Manager 01/02 remains the gold standard of
Often considered the most effective defensive midfielder in the 3.9.68 database due to his tackling and positioning. Emerging Real-World Stars 3.9.68] - Championship Manager 2001/2002 Forums
The Best of the Best: Top Players in Championship Manager 01/02 3.9.68
Championship Manager 01/02 is a classic football management simulation game that still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Released in 2001, the game allowed players to manage their favorite teams, make transfers, and compete against the best in the virtual football world. One of the most exciting aspects of the game is scouting and signing top talent. In this blog post, we'll focus on the best players in the game, specifically those with a 3.9.68 data patch.
The Elite Players
In Championship Manager 01/02 3.9.68, the top players are a mix of seasoned professionals and young stars on the rise. Here are some of the best players in the game:
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
Tips for Building a Dream Team
Conclusion
Championship Manager 01/02 3.9.68 offers a rich football management experience, with a vast array of top players to choose from. By scouting and signing the best players, you'll be well on your way to building a dream team and competing for top honors. Whether you're a seasoned manager or a newcomer to the game, these elite players will help you dominate the opposition and achieve success. Happy managing!
Championship Manager 01/02 (v3.9.68), finding the right players early can make or break your save. The 3.9.68 patch, often considered the "official final update," features several "Super Greeks" and legendary bargains that are essential for any manager. The "Must-Sign" Legends Maxim Tsigalko
Arguably the greatest player in CM history. Despite his low price at Dinamo Minsk, he is a goal-scoring machine who frequently nets 50+ goals a season. Tó Madeira
A legendary fictional scout-inserted player at CD Gouveia. He is a world-class striker available for a tiny fee, though you often need a "Large" database loaded to find him. Taribo West
The ultimate free agent. He starts without a club and provides immediate world-class quality for any top-tier side.
The engine of any midfield. Signing him from Falkirk is a rite of passage for CM 01/02 players.
A versatile defender from Cheltenham who can excel at the highest level despite his humble beginnings. The "Super Greeks" (v3.9.68 Specials)
The Greek league was famously overpowered in this database. Look for: Anastasios Skalidis
A striker from Kavala who rivals Tsigalko for sheer volume of goals. Dionysis Chiotis
Often cited as the best goalkeeper in the game, playing for AEK Athens. Alexandros Papadopoulos
A young goal-scoring prodigy available for a low fee early on. Bargains & Wonderkids Assane N'Diaye
A rock in defensive midfield who is consistently rated as one of the best in his position. Julius Aghahowa
Extremely fast and prolific, though he can be expensive if you don't move for him early. Kim Källström
A Swedish wonderkid from BK Häcken who becomes a creative force. Hugo Pinheiro
A fantastic young goalkeeper available for a very small fee at the start of the game. Josh Blake
A hidden gem available for as little as £1k who can easily score 20–30 goals in lower divisions. Installation & Useful Tools CHAMPIONSHIP MANAGER 01/02 | Official Game Download NO CD
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best players in Championship Manager 01/02 with the 3.9.68 update (the most popular and stable database patch, which fixes the original’s bugs and rebalances attributes).
Here’s a piece written in the nostalgic, tactical, and slightly obsessive spirit of the Championship Manager 01/02 community, specifically regarding the legendary 3.9.68 database update.
These players were often free or criminally underpriced. A true CM manager’s first move was always the "Approach to Sign" on Bosman free transfers.
For clubs with cash (€5M+ budget).
Before buying, you must understand what makes a player "good" in the CM 01/02 match engine.