Every year, EA’s player ratings spark arguments, debates, and more than a few raised eyebrows. FC 26 is no different. With veterans slipping down the charts, young stars climbing fast, and a few shock inclusions at the top, this year’s ratings tell the story of football’s changing guard. Let’s dig into the biggest surprises.
Salah and Mbappé Share the Throne
The top spot belongs to not one, but two players: Mohamed Salah and Kylian Mbappé, both rated 91 overall.
For Mbappé, this isn’t shocking, he’s been EA’s cover star and the face of the franchise for years. But Salah matching him? That’s a statement. It shows recognition of his consistency at Liverpool and his continued ability to deliver when it matters.
The Rise of Lamine Yamal
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal breaking into the top tier with an 89 overall is astonishing. Few teenagers in EA history have reached this level so quickly. His performances with Barcelona have been electric, and EA clearly sees him as one of football’s future cornerstones.
Yamal’s high rating makes him a must-buy for Career Mode rebuilds and a dangerous card in Ultimate Team from day one.
Vinícius Jr. Falls Just Short
While Yamal’s rise is celebrated, Vinícius Jr. being stuck at 89 overall feels like a snub. He’s been central to Real Madrid’s attack, yet EA stopped just shy of putting him in the elite 90-plus bracket. It’s a reminder that ratings aren’t just about form, they’re also about balance. EA might be leaving room for in-season upgrades through dynamic items in Ultimate Team.
Messi and Ronaldo Slip Into the Background
For years, football games always came down to the same debate: who’s rated higher, Messi or Ronaldo? That rivalry defined an entire generation of FIFA and FC titles. But in FC 26, that chapter is closed.
- Lionel Messi now sits at 86 overall, a reflection of both his age and the lower level of competition in Major League Soccer. It’s still respectable, but a far cry from the days when he ruled the charts.
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s fall is even starker. For the first time in memory, he doesn’t crack the Top 50. Considering how he once dominated ratings year after year, it’s a jarring reminder that time catches up with everyone.
Together, these drops signal a clear generational handover. The legends who once owned the spotlight are stepping aside, and the future now belongs to Mbappé, Haaland, Yamal, and the new wave of stars.
Women’s Football Shares the Spotlight
One of the most important changes is at the very top of the women’s side. Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas both sit at 91 overall, putting them level with Salah and Mbappé.
This isn’t just token representation, it reflects their dominance in world football. Bonmatí’s Ballon d’Or win and Putellas’ consistency make them every bit as deserving as their male counterparts.
Top 10 Snapshot
Here’s a look at the Top 10 FC 26 players according to Sports Illustrated:
- Mohamed Salah – 91
- Kylian Mbappé – 91
- Ousmane Dembélé – 90
- Rodri – 90
- Virgil van Dijk – 90
- Jude Bellingham – 90
- Erling Haaland – 90
- Raphinha – 89
- Lamine Yamal – 89
- Achraf Hakimi – 89
It’s a balanced mix of attackers, midfield generals, and defensive anchors, though it’s the omissions that really stand out.
Underrated Names Worth Watching
It’s easy to get caught up in the superstars, but some of the real difference-makers in FC 26 aren’t the ones plastered across the marketing posters. A few names just outside the top tier could quietly become essential.
- Martin Ødegaard (89) – Arsenal’s captain is earning respect not just for his numbers, but for how he runs the show in midfield. His vision, creativity, and calm presence make him a natural leader, and FC 26 reflects that with one of his strongest ratings yet.
- Federico Valverde (88) – Call him Real Madrid’s Swiss Army knife. Valverde’s versatility explains why he’s rising in the rankings, whether he’s shoring up the middle or sprinting down the wing. Every squad needs a player like him.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (87) – As Napoli supporters are already aware, “Kvaradona” is a complete nightmare for defenses. He is a nightmare to game-plan against in FC 26 because of his dribbling, flair, and unpredictable nature, which make him one of Serie A’s most explosive wingers.
They may not dominate the headlines, but in Ultimate Team or Career Mode, these guys are gold. Affordable, flexible, and reliable, they give you the balance that every great squad needs.
Key Takeaways from the Ratings
A few clear themes stand out:
- The torch has passed. Messi and Ronaldo are fading, while Mbappé, Haaland, and Yamal lead the new era.
- Midfielders matter. Rodri, Bellingham, and Ødegaard prove that control in the middle decides games.
- Women at the top. Bonmatí and Putellas rated alongside Salah and Mbappé mark a real milestone.
- Depth wins. Beyond the stars, players like Ødegaard, Valverde, and Kvaratskhelia can define squads.
FC 26’s ratings don’t just reflect form, they shape how the game is played. From Ultimate Team metas to Career Mode transfers, these numbers set the tone.
Salah tying Mbappé, Yamal’s rise, and Messi and Ronaldo’s decline show a football world in transition. Add women’s stars and hidden gems, and FC 26 feels like more than an update, it’s a snapshot of football’s new hierarchy.