I think it's great that they've finally included 2D-graphics. 3D is not needed, because that's just flashy and will increase the loading time, while 2D can show the experienced manager what is wrong with the team.
Myself, I'm sticking to old CM2, Scandinavian version, (I think CM3 was merely a lot more difficult, else it was polishing the game), and am currently managing 2nd division club Fredrikstad. We've just promoted with a 3 pt margin.