Fix Football Manager 26 Controller / Gamepad Not Working on PC (2025 Guide)

Are you having trouble using your controller or gamepad in Football Manager 26? Don’t worry — you’re not the only one. Many PC players have reported that their controller doesn’t respond, isn’t detected, or stops working during gameplay.

This issue often occurs due to driver conflicts, Steam Input settings, or missing controller configurations. In this guide, you’ll learn all the best methods to fix controller and gamepad issues in Football Manager 26 and get back to managing your team smoothly.

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⚙️ Common Causes

Before jumping into the fixes, it helps to understand what might cause this issue:

• Controller not detected or configured properly
• Steam Input conflict
• Outdated controller or Bluetooth drivers
• Incorrect controller settings in Steam
• Interference from third-party software (like DS4Windows)

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✅ Fix 1: Reconnect and Reboot

Sometimes the simplest solution works best.

Steps:

1. Unplug your controller or disconnect it via Bluetooth.
2. Restart your PC.
3. Plug it back in or reconnect via Bluetooth.
4. Launch Football Manager 26 again.

✅ Result: Refreshes the controller connection and eliminates temporary glitches.

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🧩 Fix 2: Enable Steam Input Configuration

If you’re playing via Steam, improper Steam Input settings may prevent your controller from working.

Steps:

1. Open Steam → Library.
2. Right-click Football Manager 26 → Properties → Controller.
3. Under Override for Football Manager 26, select Enable Steam Input.
4. Relaunch the game.

✅ Result: Ensures Steam recognizes and configures your controller automatically.

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🕹️ Fix 3: Configure the Controller Type

You can manually select your controller type within Steam settings.

Steps:

1. Go to Steam → Settings → Controller → General Controller Settings.
2. Enable the correct option based on your device:
   • ✅ Xbox Configuration Support (for Xbox controllers)
   • ✅ PlayStation Configuration Support (for DualShock/DualSense)
   • ✅ Generic Gamepad Configuration Support (for others)
3. Restart Steam and relaunch the game.

✅ Result: Correctly maps your gamepad layout and buttons in Football Manager 26.

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🔄 Fix 4: Update Controller Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers can stop your controller from being detected.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
2. Expand Human Interface Devices or Universal Serial Bus Controllers.
3. Right-click your controller → Update driver → Search automatically for drivers.
4. If using Bluetooth, also update Bluetooth drivers under Network adapters.

✅ Result: Ensures your controller drivers are fully up to date.

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🔌 Fix 5: Use a Wired Connection

Wireless connections can sometimes cause input delays or disconnections.

Steps:

• Connect your controller directly using a USB-C or micro-USB cable.
• Avoid USB hubs — plug it directly into the motherboard ports.

✅ Result: Provides a more stable and responsive controller connection.

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🧰 Fix 6: Disable Third-Party Tools (DS4Windows, InputMapper)

Tools like DS4Windows or InputMapper can conflict with Steam’s input system.

Steps:

1. Close any third-party controller apps.
2. Unplug and reconnect your controller.
3. Relaunch Football Manager 26.

✅ Result: Prevents duplicate input mapping or detection issues.

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💾 Fix 7: Verify Game Files

Corrupted or missing configuration files can cause your controller to malfunction.

Steps (Steam):

1. Open Steam → Library.
2. Right-click Football Manager 26 → Properties → Installed Files.
3. Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.

✅ Result: Replaces damaged controller configuration files.

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⚡ Fix 8: Update Windows and Steam

Outdated system components can affect USB and Bluetooth support.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I → Windows Update.
2. Install all available updates.
3. Open Steam → Settings → Downloads → Clear Download Cache.

✅ Result: Keeps your system and game client compatible with modern controllers.

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🎯 Fix 9: Reinstall the Controller Driver (Last Resort)

If the issue persists, reinstall the driver manually.

Steps:

1. Open Device Manager again.
2. Right-click your controller → Uninstall device.
3. Disconnect and reconnect your controller.
4. Windows will reinstall the correct driver automatically.

✅ Result: Provides a clean setup of the latest working driver.

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💡 Additional Tips

• Launch Football Manager 26 as Administrator.
• Try connecting your controller before launching the game.
• Avoid connecting multiple controllers simultaneously.
• Disable Steam Big Picture Mode if the controller acts inconsistently.

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❓ FAQs

Q1: My controller is detected in Steam but not in Football Manager 26. Why?
A: Try enabling Steam Input under the game’s controller settings and restarting both Steam and the game.

Q2: Does Football Manager 26 support PS5 controllers on PC?
A: Yes, but make sure PlayStation Configuration Support is enabled in Steam settings.

Q3: Can I use a Bluetooth controller?
A: Yes, but for better stability and lower latency, a wired connection is recommended.

Q4: Why is my controller working in menus but not in matches?
A: This often happens due to partial input mapping. Recheck Steam Input settings or verify game files.

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🏁 Conclusion

Controller or gamepad issues in Football Manager 26 can be frustrating, especially when you just want to relax and play. However, with the above fixes — from updating drivers and adjusting Steam Input settings to verifying files — you can quickly get your controller working again.

Once everything is configured correctly, you’ll be able to enjoy smooth, responsive gameplay whether you’re managing your favorite club or leading your team to victory!