The initiative arrives alongside FM26’s debut of the women’s game, and aims to turn passionate players into real-world coaches.
Hayes, now leading the USWNT, said the sport urgently needs “creative ways” to bring more women into coaching - who currently represent just nine per cent of managers in England.
The 49-year-old former Chelsea manager said in a statement: “I’ve spoken many times about the need to come up with creative ways to address the lack of female coaches in football.
“This campaign is a great example of how we can reach more women, giving them the education and confidence to pursue their dreams.
“With the right opportunities, we will see female coaching flourish at the top level in the years to come.”
Female FM26 players are invited to complete First Victory, the series’ first achievement tied to its women’s football mode.
Up to 11 players who unlock it can then apply for scholarships covering their UEFA coaching licences, plus hands-on placements at professional clubs.
The programme will be delivered by The Powerhouse Project, which specialises in supporting women and girls into sport.
In a franchise first, each scholarship winner will also appear in the next Football Manager release as an in-game coach - complete with stats based on their real-world development - giving them visibility to millions of players.
Sports Interactive boss Miles Jacobson said integrating the women’s game was “just the beginning,” and that Football Manager can now help drive change off the pitch too.
He said: “As a studio, we set ourselves the challenge of fully integrating the women’s game to ensure it’s portrayed as authentically as possible within the FM experience.
“But that was always just the beginning for us - we’re now thrilled to see Football Manager playing an active role in inspiring real-world change, helping a new generation of women take their first steps into professional coaching.”
Xbox and Sky Sports, meanwhile, said the partnership reflects a shared push to improve representation and create clearer pathways for women in the sport.
Applications are open now to FM26 players on Xbox Game Pass via the official campaign site.
