EA FC 26 New PlayStyles Guide | How To Utilize Them To Maximize Player Performance?

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• EA FC 26 Ultimate Scream Investment Guide: Best Cards To Invest, High-Risk Picks & Coin-Making Tips

  EA FC 26's best and most exciting promotion is underway: Ultimate Scream! Ultimate Scream Team 1 lineup has been announced, featuring some fantastic cards.

  Every promotion presents a great opportunity for trading and investing, and this one is no exception. However, you'll need to know how to leverage Ultimate Scream promo for investment and which cards to invest in.

  

  Ultimate Scream Cards

  Ultimate Scream cards are naturally the core of this promotion. Ultimate Scream cards are dynamic items. They randomly gain a stat boost (Pace, Dribbling, Shooting, Passing, Defending, Physicality) to 99 on a specific date, the most recent being November 5th.

  The best time to invest isn't in holding cards until their stats upgrade, but rather in selling them early, taking advantage of market expectations. When the specific upgrade attributes are revealed through leaks or other means, market hype will peak, making it the best time to sell and earn FC 26 coins.

  Investment Card Analysis And Risk Assessment

  Since the upgradeable attributes of Ultimate Scream Players have not yet been announced, or rather, leaked, we cannot yet know which cards are most worth investing in. Therefore, the cards listed below are speculative.

  High-Risk, High-Return Cards

  The recommended choices below will only increase in value if they acquire the desired attributes. If these cards acquire undesirable attributes (such as 99 Passing), their value may decrease instead of increase.

  86 OVR Thomas Müller (ST++/RM/CAM/RW)

  • Pac: 83
  • Sho: 87
  • Pas: 86
  • Dri: 86
  • Def: 60
  • Phy: 75

  86 OVR Thomas Müller is a well-rounded attacking player—balanced in shooting, passing, and dribbling, and versatile in position, making him suitable for various formations and ideal as a False 9, Shadow Striker, or Playmaker. However, his pace is not particularly fast, which may make him appear sluggish against high-tempo metas. If he achieves 99 pace, he will be extremely destructive as a striker, potentially doubling his value.

  85 OVR Juan David Cabal (CB++/LB/LM/LW)

  • Pac: 82
  • Sho: 50
  • Pas: 80
  • Dri: 76
  • Def: 85
  • Phy: 80

  85 OVR Juan David Cabal is highly versatile, capable of playing both wing and central roles. His 80+ passing and 85 defense make him exceptionally rare among attacking full-backs. However, his 82 pace is only decent for a center-back, providing some tracking ability. If he achieves 99 pace, combined with his existing Anticipate+ playing style, he could potentially become a top-class center-back.

  87 OVR Mbeumo (ST++/RM/RW)

  • Pac: 89
  • Sho: 87
  • Pas: 81
  • Dri: 86
  • Def: 51
  • Phy: 78

  Mbeumo's Pace, Shooting, and Dribbling are all very good, placing him among the meta players. His Physical 78 is quite good for a small forward. However, it's currently worth around 200,000 coins and requires extremely high stats, such as 99 Dribbling, to significantly increase its value. This is a difficult price to achieve.

  Low-Risk Cards

  Low-risk cards generally have low value, typically around 10,000-16,000 FC 26 coins. They are close to being sold quickly, so even if the investment fails, the loss is limited. However, the potential for appreciation is relatively small, and because the entry barrier is low, many players already hold these cards, so there's no shortage in the market. Therefore, even if their value increases, you'll face fierce competition when trying to sell them.

  Low-Risk Cards:

  • 85 OVR Madison Haley RW++/RM/CAM/ST, approximately 13,000 coins
  • 84 OVR Danny da Costa RB++/CB/RM/RW, approximately 18,000 coins
  • 85 OVR Pablo Fornals CM++/CDM/RM/RW, approximately 14,000 coins
  • 84 OVR Guela Doué CB++/RM/RW/RB, approximately 12,000 coins

  It is recommended that you diversify your investments to balance risk. You can invest in both high-risk and low-risk cards, and do not focus on a single player. Even if only some cards achieve their desired attribute upgrades, the overall investment can still be profitable.

  Timing Of Investment And Selling

  The end of the weekend league (FUT Champions) is a good opportunity to accumulate cards, as many players open packs, increasing market supply and potentially lowering card values temporarily.

  Once the official announcement or leaked information appears, market activity will gradually rise, allowing you to sell at the right moment - before the attributes are actually upgraded.

  You May Like: EA Sports FC 26 Club Mode: Unlocking And Upgrading Archetypes For Realistic Player Progression

  Other Investment Opportunities

  Low-Rated Card Investment

  The game features repeatable SBCs, requiring a large number of 83 and 84 OVR cards, leading to consistently high demand. Simply opening player packs cannot meet the demand for these SBCs. The value of these cards will rise significantly from their long-term stable lows. These fuel cards are generally not very valuable. The OVR cards are worth approximately 750 coins, and the 84 OVR cards are worth approximately 1200 coins.

  Evolution Card Investment

  Evolution cards have already brought changes to several positions, such as LB (84 OVR Mendy), LW, and CDM (85 OVR García). Once the evolution of a position is announced, the value of related player cards will skyrocket due to demand. You can stockpile potentially suitable economy player cards in advance. Positions like RW, CAM, and ST have not yet seen targeted evolutions.

  The above are the investment strategies during Ultimate Scream promotion. If you want to successfully earn coins in FUT 26 market, you need to pay close attention to game information and never miss the best trading time.

• EA FC 26 Patch 1.1.0 Meta Formations: Best Tactics After The R1 Dribbling Nerf

  EA FC 26 Patch v1.1.0 had a significant impact on the game. Whether you like it or not, it's undeniable that player movement has become heavier and slower after the patch.

  Executing intense attacks has become much more difficult, while defending has become much easier. This represents another shift in meta formations. Let's take a look at the impact of patch v1.1.0 on the game and the three most recommended meta formations.

  

  Impact Of The Patch

  The most significant change in patch v1.1.0 is the nerf to R1 Dribbling. This has reduced the value of players who rely on this skill. For example, Lamine Yamal's value plummeted to 138,000 FC 26 coins on the day the patch was released, and his value is unlikely to recover until the next patch that can restore R1 Dribbling's value is released.

  On the other hand, the enhanced defensive tracking abilities of CMs and defenders, along with the increased speed of Jockey Playstyle, also represent a shift in offensive tactics.

  General Offensive Techniques

  The current offensive approach no longer relies on possession or crosses, but rather on quick, precise through balls, allowing forwards or wingers to penetrate behind the defense and create attacking opportunities.

  This relies heavily on fast forwards and wingers, as well as midfielders with Incisive Pass and Tiki Taka Playstyles. Alternatively, the team can use the wingers to reach the byline, pass back to midfield, and utilize short-range Tiki Taka plays to find crosses or shooting opportunities.

  When in possession, you can press L1 to direct your teammates to make forward runs, which often helps break the deadlock. If the offense struggles during a match, you can switch the forward's role from Advanced Forward to False Nine at any time to strengthen midfield connectivity.

  Recommended Formation

  No.3 4-4-2

  4-4-2 formation's advantage lies in its defensive stability, with two parallel lines of four players and a compact structure. Furthermore, the two strikers constantly threaten the goal in the penalty area, facilitating the attack.

  Tactics:

  • Build-Up Play: Balanced
  • Defensive Approach: High Pressure
  • Defensive Depth: 70

  Player Settings:

  • LST (Attack): Advance Forward
  • RST (Attack): Advance Forward
  • LM (Attack): Inside Forward
  • RM (Defend): Inside Forward
  • LCM (Balanced): Playmaker
  • RCM (Balanced): Playmaker
  • LB (Defend): Fullback
  • RB (Defend): Fullback
  • LCB (Defend): Defender
  • RCB (Defend): Defender
  • GK (Balanced): Sweeper Keeper

  Both the center backs and full backs require high pace, and the full backs are set to Defend to prevent counterattacks.

  CMs are crucial and require excellent passing styles, such as Tiki Taka and Incisive Pass, to support the forwards in passing and attacking plays. Wingers, on the other hand, require absolute speed and are responsible for off-ball forward runs.

  Strikers, if they require more support, can position one player as a False 9. Players with Incisive Pass, Finesse Shot, or Low Driven Shot playstyles are recommended.

  No.2 4-4-1-1 Formation

  4-4-1-1 formation builds on 4-4-2 by adding an Attacking Midfielder (CAM) to create a tighter attacking connection through the middle.

  Tactics:

  • Build-Up Play: Balanced
  • Defensive Approach: High Pressure
  • Defensive Depth: 70

  Player Settings:

  • ST (Attack): Advance Forward
  • CAM (Attack): Shadow Striker
  • LM (Attack): Inside Forward
  • RM (Defend): Inside Forward
  • LCM (Balanced): Box-to-Box
  • RCM (Build-Up): Deep-Lying Playmaker
  • LB (Defend): Fullback
  • RB (Defend): Fullback
  • LCB (Defend): Defender
  • RCB (Defend): Defender
  • GK (Balanced): Sweeper Keeper

  CAM is a key position and must possess excellent passing playstyles such as Incisive Pass, Tiki Taka, and Pinged Pass. As long as you set his role to Shadow Striker, he'll penetrate the penalty area like a second striker.

  The Striker requires Incisive Pass playstyle to complement through-ball tactics, and Advanced Forward or False 9 is recommended. To effectively utilize this formation, you need the right players. You can trade for the players you need on the trade market, but each player can cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of FUT 26 coins. Fortunately, IGGM is currently having a Halloween sale. Use the HW2025 promo code to get 8% off all coins and players you buy. This promo ends on November 5th, so don't miss out!

  

  No.1 4-5-1 Formation

  he 4-5-1 formation was already one of the strongest before the patch, and instead of being weakened after the patch, it has become even stronger. Its strong midfield control is excellent. The three CMs dominate the midfield, while the midfielders can effectively participate in both defense and attack, making it a perfect fit for the current through-ball style.

  Tactical Settings:

  • Build-Up Play: Balanced
  • Defensive Approach: High Pressure
  • Depth: 70 (adjust to 60 if defense is struggling)

  Player Settings:

  • ST (Attack): Advance Forward
  • LM (Balanced): Inside Forward
  • RM (Balanced): Inside Forward
  • LCM (Balanced): Box-to-Box
  • MCM (Balanced): Deep-Lying Playmaker
  • RCM (Attack): Playmaker
  • LB (Defend): Fullback
  • RB (Defend): Fullback
  • LCB (Defend): Defender
  • RCB (Defend): Defender
  • GK (Balanced): Sweeper Keeper

  The only striker on your team should play with Incisive Pass style and be a good finisher. Wingers should ideally have a pace of 90 or higher, such as Nico Williams and Hansen.

  One of the left or right CM can be set up as a set as a Box-to-Box Midfielder, capable of both attacking and defending. The middle CM is responsible for defensive linkage. The final CM can be given a free role, responsible for forward runs and key passes (like Sócrates).

  While 4-5-1 formation may be considered a meta formation because of its strong midfield control and its strong compatibility with current through-ball play, 4-4-1-1 and 4-4-2 are also very compelling alternatives. The key to your success lies in configuring players with the right playstyle and attributes for your formation, and mastering advanced techniques like L1 manual movement.

• EA FC 26 (4-4-2 Formation Guide) | Mastering Two Variations To Balance Defense & Attack

  If you think of a football match as a battle, you'll find that the key to getting more shots actually comes down to a single battle strategy: proper attack and defense.

  So, just as war requires strategic deployment, leading your players to victory in FC 26 requires a sound formation. Different formations focus on different areas, but 4-4-2 undoubtedly offers the best balance between attack and defense.

  So, if you don't have a preferred tactical style, 4-4-2 is your safest bet. Below, we'll explain the principles and techniques for creating and utilizing this formation in FIFA 26.

  

  Overview Of 4-4-2 In FC 26

  Since the development team optimizes each new FIFA game, the mechanics often differ from the previous year, and the most suitable tactics and formations often need to be adjusted accordingly.

  The most notable change in FC 26 is the faster transitions and build-up times, making it more difficult for your dribblers to defend and counterattack against opponents.

  This makes the balanced 4-4-2 formation a top formation. It minimizes pressure in these situations, creates additional counterattacks, and allows for reliable speed and precision.

  While the simplicity of 4-4-2 might initially make you question its effectiveness, when in possession, it naturally transforms into a 4-2-2-2, allowing the wingers to drift inside and create more passing opportunities for the midfielders and forwards.

  If you want a more direct and effective attack, use two strikers as strike partners. In fact, two strikers can create a wide range of offensive strategies, and you can freely combine them to find the best playstyle for your game and team.

  4-4-2 Variant 1: Balanced Offense And Defense

  Most FC 26 formations can be used in more than one style. You can customize it to your desired performance by arranging different tactics and players. For example, 4-4-2, in addition to being balanced offensively and defensively, also offers more offensive uses.

  If you're aiming for a more balanced buildup in a 4-4-2, the first thing to note is that you shouldn't rush into counterattacks. This can easily trigger attacks from the opponent's left, right, and middle midfielders.

  This will force you to quickly join the attack, but your defense is often less robust, leaving many gaps, especially in the midfield.

  Since 4-4-2 allows your players to run close together by mixing in quick passes, you can encourage them to run towards the opponent's penalty area, boosting your defensive rating to 55.

  For player selection, it's acceptable to use the default options for the goalkeeper and center back. For the left and right backs, you can define their center of gravity as defensive, forming a four-man defensive line to prevent counterattacks.

  Next, you need to ensure your first midfielder maintains 100% possession of the opponent's ball, allowing them to quickly track back and prevent counterattacks. Then, you'll deploy your second box-to-box midfielder (B2B) to actively pursue the ball.

  This will allow B2B to join the attack later and then track back as quickly as possible. This player will operate behind the striker during the attack and then move in front of the center back to defend.

  If you want your midfielders to track back quickly, you can quickly drag them back and position them in front of the center back to form a solid defensive line and prevent the ball from being conceded.

  Also, avoid wasting your left and right midfielders on the touchline; instead, encourage them to cut inside into the penalty area to create more scoring opportunities.

  Generally speaking, this formation variant is sufficient for a typical full match. If you find yourself losing control of the game or struggling to put pressure on the opponent, it's best to switch to the more aggressive second formation variant.

  

  4-4-2 Variant 2: Aggressive Attack

  This 4-4-2 variation doesn't change the buildup, as the formation already possesses considerable offensive potential. Instead, your first move is to increase your defensive stat to 61: activating a high defensive line will encourage your players to be more aggressive.

  You can then apply pressure to your players, giving them more power while also allowing them to better control the situation and create more offensive and scoring opportunities through possession.

  In terms of the specific formation personnel, the goalkeeper, first center back, and second center back remain the same in this variation. However, you'll want to balance the left and right backs with the full-backs to allow them to occasionally contribute to the attack.

  To achieve this, you'll want both midfielders to move inside, leaving enough space for the left and right backs to contribute to the attack from the flanks and assist in the buildup.

  For this variation's midfield defensive strategy, the first midfielder still focuses on ball possession and winning the ball, with at least one midfielder able to quickly track back to prevent the opponent's counterattack.

  As for the second midfielder, a box-to-box attacking strategy still helps win the ball while ensuring players can advance, track back, and assist in defense. Forwards are tasked with advancing the attack.

  Comparing And Choosing Between The Two Variants

  In general, both 4-4-2 variants can be used throughout a match, but the second variant can create more scoring opportunities by allowing the left and right backs to occasionally join the attack.

  However, this variant requires a high defensive line to exert greater pressure on the opponent, so if you find it difficult to master, it's best to prioritize variant 1, the mainstream 4-4-2 formation, until you find yourself at a disadvantage and need to switch strategies.

  That's all you need to know about using 4-4-2 formation in FUT 26. If you haven't found a formation that works for you yet, give it a try!

• EA FC 26 Patch 1.1.0 Explained: Massive Dribbling Nerfs, Stronger Defense, And A Broken Meta

  EA FC 26 just released V1.1.0 Update, which has been met with widespread dissatisfaction among players, with some thinking it ruins the game, while others consider it the best update yet. Simply put, it strengthens defense while largely weakening offense, a game-changing change.

  Because the previous meta was strong in offense, most players' teams favored it. This patch weakened offense, turning many meta lineups into jokes. So what exactly caused this shift? Let's take a look.

  

  Defending Improvements

  Following the previous update, FC 26 continues to strengthen defense, which is a step in the right direction. In the previous meta, defense and offense were unbalanced, and ideally, they should be balanced. The defensive improvements are as follows:

  • Man Marking: During kickoff, the defending AI player's marking becomes more aggressive.
  • Sprint Jockey: Slightly increased speed, making manual defending more effective.
  • Tackle: Fixed an issue where the ball would incorrectly bounce back to the attacker after a tackle, and improved the tackle animation.
  • Corner Kick: Increased the number of players dropping back to defend against a Short Corner Kick.
  • Goalkeeper: Improved AI logic.

  Players previously complained that kickoffs and short corner kicks were too overpowered, allowing some players to abuse them and defeat stronger opponents. Officials are indeed working on fixing this issue, but based on player feedback, kickoffs have only been improved but not eliminated. Short Corner Kicks are still effective, but may be more difficult to execute.

  Overall, after strengthening defense, many players feel that opponents can easily shut down the field with counterattacks, while they are unable to break through their defenses, resulting in fewer goals. While the attacking team may have been in an advantageous position, the strengthened defense makes defense more effective than offense, potentially increasing the required FC 26 coins for defensive players.

  

  Passing Improvements

  Passing performance was decent and didn't require any changes per se, but there are still some improvements:

  • Ground and Lofted Through Passes: Better respects player aiming input, with less assist.
  • Low Crosses: Fixed an issue where passes sometimes ended up as regular crosses.
  • First Time Passes: Improved responsiveness.

  Dribbling Nerfs

  The dribbling nerfs were the most controversial aspect of this update, and the specific changes are as follows:

  • Controlled Sprint Dribble: Speed has been reduced.
  • R1 Dribbling Nerf: R1 dribbling has been significantly nerfed.
  • Left Stick Dribbling Nerf: Basic left stick dribbling has become clunky and unresponsive.

  These changes have slowed down the overall attack, making all tacklers' turns, movements, and ball control feel slow and laggy. Holding the R1 button no longer keeps the ball under control. Instead, players frequently kick the ball over a meter, completely losing the ability to close control.

  This change directly alters the game's meta. The previous R1 dribbling technique is essentially useless. To recreate the immediate effect, you must now combine it with L1 Dribbling and switch to R1 Dribbling at the appropriate time. Overall, however, R1 Dribbling has been completely ruined.

  Read More: EA Sports FC 26 (4 Professional Tips): Winning Through Smart Play

  Other Changes

  FUT Mode

  • Added Objective tracking. You can add Objective groups as Favorites and view your progress in the in-game pause menu.
  • Added a preview feature for Evolution consumables, allowing you to preview the upgrade requirements and availability of player items before you own them.
  • Added the ability to sort SBC menu by Newest or Expiry.
  • Added numerous improvements to reward settings, UI display, and market interactions.

  Career Mode

  • Reduced Manager Market email spam and redundant notifications.
  • Fixed logic issues with end-of-season evaluations, Caretaker ratings, and AI career stability.
  • Fixed visual and logical errors in some UI and simulation data.

  Impact Of Patch 1.1.0

  The most significant impact of Patch 1.1.0 is the reduction in the skill gap between players of different skill levels. Before the update, the game demonstrated a high skill gap through precise left-stick dribbling and playmaking, allowing skilled players to win easily. However, after the update, the increased automation of defense and the lack of offensive tools have narrowed the gap between high-skill players and average players.

  However, the post-update gameplay clearly favors players who use Park the Bus, defend with CDMs, and then rely on Skill Moves like Elastico and Mcgeady Cancel Skill to counterattack.

  Patch 1.1.0 is a devastating blow to high-skill players and offensive players, but for more average players, they can completely leave their defense to the AI. As long as their CB and CDM are strong enough, making it difficult for opponents to break through the defense, giving them a chance to compete against high-level players.

  For truly skilled offensive players, while the dribbling nerf means they can't attack with the same freedom as before, they can still create offensive opportunities creatively.

  The R1 dribbling nerf has a game-changing impact and will undoubtedly significantly alter the market. Players who excel at dribbling and defending will be worth more FUT 26 coins. However, you can't say this change is inherently bad, as it allows more players to enjoy the game. However, the correct balance may be to continue strengthening manual defending to counter strong dribbling, rather than simply nerfing a core offensive skill.

• EA FC 26 Coins Farming In Ultimate Team Tips | Master Team Chemistry, SBCs And More

  After a major update focused on player experience, FC 26 now allows you to earn more rewards while enjoying a fun virtual football experience - assuming you master the necessary tricks.

  As the primary source of coins and card packs, Ultimate Team remains the most popular mode for most FIFA 26 players. While it encompasses a variety of gameplay options, the unifying factor is its strong competitive nature.

  Therefore, if you want to earn rewards across all Ultimate Team modes, there are some universal tips you should master that we'll cover below.

  

  Improve Team Chemistry

  The total chemistry value of your team is determined by the number of points each player possesses. Each player can typically earn up to three points, so the overall chemistry value for your team is at least 26, with 33 being the ideal.

  We recommend maximizing your team chemistry because each point of increased chemistry grants a player a bonus attribute, which can significantly impact your chances of winning matches.

  While not having chemistry won't bring negative influence, utilizing all valuable mechanics is something any aspiring EA FC player should strive for.

  If achieving a 3 chemistry value for every player on your team is challenging, we recommend prioritizing improving your core midfielders, forwards, and center backs, or enhancing your star players.

  Of course, you can earn chemistry points by yourself in FUT 26. The more players on your team come from the same club, league, or country, the more points you earn, up to a maximum of 8.

  Complete More SBCs To Earn Rewards

  Earning FC 26 coins requires winning more games in Ultimate Team, which is one of the most direct ways to improve your team's quality. To achieve this, you need to consistently recruit powerful players.

  While there are many ways to earn cards or card packs, completing SBCs is undoubtedly the most enjoyable. SBCs' full name is Squad Building Challenges, are updated in real time based on the latest in-game promotions to offer the best rewards.

  While players awarded by SBCs are untradeable and have a limited lifespan, they can certainly improve your team's strength in a short period. The following SBCs are available recently:

  • Max. 87 Base Icon Upgrade
  • EOAE Busquets
  • Ligue 1 Player of the Month
  • Ratings Reload: Ilan Kebbal
  • Red Bull Aerial Challenge
  • World Tour Silver Superstars League

  Seize The Best Trading Opportunities

  As you know, selling player cards or player items on the market is an effective way to earn coins. However, due to the regular updates to Ultimate Team, the value of some tradable items fluctuates.

  A general rule of thumb is to sell when a player is valuable, or trade for a desired player when the market is low. If you're focused on earning coins, we recommend focusing on Fridays at 7:00 PM.

  New Ultimate Team content is often released around this time, and being upfront about this information can help you predict upcoming market fluctuations and develop the best coin farming strategies.

  Adding Icons Or Hero Players To Your Team

  While this may require you to buy FC 26 coins, as both icons and hero players are worth tens or even hundreds of thousands of coins, the resulting profits are definitely worth it.

  For example, when Icon players are in their natural positions, they gain the most chemistry, providing the most benefits to their team and their teammates of the same nationality.

  Hero players are unique in that, while they also help the team improve through chemistry, their benefits are more league-based, and team building typically revolves around shared leagues.

  Based on this, combining these two types of players will allow you to easily achieve our recommended team chemistry requirements, making it easier to complete SBCs and other Ultimate Team matches, and quickly earn 26 FUT coins.

  The following are the current Icon and Hero players worth recruiting:

  Icon Players:

  • Zlatan Ibrahimović
  • Andrés Iniesta
  • Oliver Kahn
  • Alex Morgan
  • Toni Kroos
  • Caroline Seger
  • Marcelo
  • Giorgio Chiellini
  • Francesco Totti
  • Steffi Jones
  • Sissi
  • Cha Bum-Kun

  Hero Players:

  • Louisa Necib
  • Simone Laudehr
  • Michel Salgado
  • Ivan Zamorano
  • Jill Scott
  • Ricardo Quaresma
  • De Rossi
  • Pablo Aimar

  Utilize Evolutions When They're Suitable

  Evolution is an event in FIFA series. It allows you to evolve specific players' attributes by completing various tasks, upgrading them into more powerful and valuable cards.

  Note that with each new season, Ultimate Team will introduce new evolution slots with specific requirements. While this may limit your player evolutions, the benefits are definitely worth it.

  When selecting players for your current evolution, remember to check whether the available evolutions meet your expectations for that player: for example, addressing weaknesses or enhancing strengths.

  This not only influences how you deploy that player in future matches, but also ensures you have a sound understanding of your Ultimate Team, helping you build a unique and powerful squad.

  Pay Attention To New Changes

  We mentioned two things at the outset: first, Ultimate Team consists of multiple specific gameplay styles; and second, FC 26 has received several updates. Therefore, paying attention to changes in each gameplay style is crucial to improving your win rate.

  Now, to experience Champions mode, simply earn points by achieving a good ranking in Division Rivals, which qualifies you for Champions mode without having to complete additional qualifying matches.

  In addition, a new Challengers mode has been added for players who don't have enough Division Rival points. With exclusive mechanics and rewards, you can experience a more advanced competitive experience similar to Champions, but with a more friendly feel.

  We hope the methods we've introduced here will help you earn enough coins early on. But what you need to remember is not to squander in any way. Even if you really want to exchange for a star player, you must make sure that he can help your team building!

• EA FC 26 Ultimate Team Best Formations | Meta Tactics, Player Roles & Pro Tips

  EA Sports FC 26 is a highly competitive game where both your players and tactics are crucial. Like chess pieces, your players must be positioned and used wisely - to win, you need to be a master tactician, ensuring they perform impeccably both offensively and defensively.

  The most fundamental tactic in FUT 26 is the formation. While there are many formations in the game, it's clear that not all are effective, and some are considered meta choices. Below are a few of the most popular meta formations in the current version, along with their strengths, weaknesses, and player placements.

  

  1. 4-5-1 (Flat) / 4-1-4-1

  Both formations feature a four-defender, five-midfielder setup. These formations are increasingly favored by advanced players.

  Both formations are characterized by their defensive stability. They form a full bank of five and a compact midfield three, resulting in a very tight defensive formation.

  Note that this is not a fast, counter-attacking setup but rather a slow, progressive one, better suited for players who prefer possession-based, methodical play.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • LM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • RM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • LCM: Playmaker (Attack)
  • CM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • RCM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • LCB: Defender+ (Defend)
  • RCB: Defender+ (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Defend)

  The above setup represents 4-5-1 (Flat). It's essentially the same as 4-1-4-1 and can be easily switched between the two. 4-1-4-1 provides a defensive midfielder, which is easier for players who are used to playing with CDM.

  

  2. 4-4-2 (Flat) / 4-4-1-1

  These two formations feature a back four, a midfield four, and two strikers. They allow for high-pressure play during attack, allowing for a large number of players in the penalty area and creating numerous chances. However, the downside is that there can be gaps between the four midfielders and the two forwards, requiring your FC 26 players to develop strong passing and dribbling skills to connect the play.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: False 9+ (Attack)
  • ST: Poacher (Attack)
  • LM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • RM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • CM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • CM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • LCB: Defender (Defend)
  • RCB: Defender (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Balanced)

  4-4-1-1 formation is almost identical to 4-4-2 (Flat), but the attacking midfielder in 4-4-1-1 can act as a shadow striker - similar to 4-2-3-1 (Wide) - helping link the midfield while simulating a two-striker system, simulating a two-striker system while also filling gaps in the midfield. These two formations are suitable for attacking FUT 26 players who seek high firepower and possess advanced mechanical skills.

  3. 4-2-3-1 (Wide)

  4-2-3-1 (Wide) formation consists of a back four, two defensive midfielders, an attacking midfielder, two wingers, and a striker. The presence of a defensive midfielder is this formation's greatest advantage, greatly improving defensive stability. While attacking opportunities may be slightly less than in a 4-4-2, better defense means more potential wins in the long run.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • LM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • CAM: Shadow Striker (Attack)
  • RM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • CDM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • CDM: Box Crasher (Balanced)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Defend)

  This formation is one of the most reliable and universal formations. It is highly recommended for most players, especially those who are still in the exploration stage or want to steadily improve their ranking.

  4. 4-1-2-1-2 (Narrow)

  The structure of 4-1-2-1-2 is four defenders, one defensive midfielder, three midfielders in a diamond formation, and two strikers. Its defining feature is a densely packed midfield during defense, effectively protecting the central area. However, its fatal weakness is the empty flanks, making them easily penetrated by opponents who are good at exploiting the flanks.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • CAM: Shadow Striker (Attack)
  • CM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • CM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • CDM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Defend)

  This formation works well in lower divisions, where opponents may struggle to exploit its weaknesses. So it is a very effective formation. However, when facing top players, the weakness of the wing will be infinitely magnified, so professional players basically do not use it.

  General Tactical Settings

  Set your defensive depth around 60 - a balanced and flexible setting that can be adjusted according to the match situation. Offensively, we recommend using Counter, as advanced players frequently utilize advanced techniques like L1 triggering, player locking, and creative movement. If you're not adept at these, counter-attacking tactics can better simulate their offensive movements.

  Compared to previous years, FC 26 offers a wider variety of formations, and even professional players are experimenting more - a positive trend for tactical diversity.

  However, while attacking formations like 4-4-2 are powerful, they require a high level of skill. If you're not skilled enough, forcing them into play can lead to losses. Choosing a formation that suits your skill level is crucial. It's best to stick with a formation that works for you and only make minor adjustments, rather than constantly switching tactics.

  For average players seeking the most reliable and effective options, 4-2-3-1 or 4-2-1-3 formations are highly recommended. These formations, with their defensive midfielders, provide the best defensive foundation, statistically resulting in more wins. However, the current defensive system has some flaws, and a back three is easily exploited by opponents, so avoid them.