EA Sports revealed the top player ratings for FC 26 on September 8, 2025, just weeks before the game’s global launch on September 27. Soccer fans buzz with excitement as stars like Kylian Mbappe and Mohamed Salah tie for the highest mark at 91 overall, based on their standout 2024-25 seasons.
Top Men’s Players Lead with Power and Skill
Kylian Mbappe, now at Real Madrid, shares the top spot with Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah. Mbappe netted 44 goals across all competitions last season, while Salah delivered 34 goals and 23 assists to help Liverpool clinch the Premier League title under new coach Arne Slot.
This tie puts both at 91, a first for Salah in the series. Ousmane Dembele from Paris Saint-Germain jumps to 90 after a treble-winning campaign, making him a key figure in the ratings.
Other players at 90 include Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, Manchester City’s Rodri who won the Ballon d’Or, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, and Manchester City’s goal machine Erling Haaland.
Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal surges to 89 from 86 last year. The 18-year-old’s rise comes after a breakout season with crucial contributions.
He joins teammate Raphinha, plus PSG’s Achraf Hakimi and Vitinha, all at 89 for their vital roles in club successes.
Goalkeepers and Club Dominance Shine Through
Gianluigi Donnarumma tops the goalkeepers after PSG’s treble, but his recent transfer to Manchester City means fans of the English club will enjoy his skills in the game. He leads alongside Liverpool’s Alisson and Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois.
Liverpool and Real Madrid each have five players in the top 26. Liverpool’s Premier League win boosts their presence, while Real Madrid holds strong despite finishing second in LaLiga behind Barcelona.
| Club | Players in Top 26 | Key Titles Last Season |
|---|---|---|
| Liverpool | 5 | Premier League |
| Real Madrid | 5 | None (2nd in LaLiga) |
| Paris Saint-Germain | 4 | Treble |
| Barcelona | 3 | LaLiga |
These numbers highlight how real achievements influence virtual rankings. Fans note surprises like Cristiano Ronaldo falling outside the top 50, a big shift from previous editions.
Women’s Ratings Highlight Barcelona’s Strength
Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas from Barcelona top the women’s list at 91 each. This milestone comes despite Barcelona losing the Champions League to Arsenal and Spain falling to England at Euro 2025.
Caroline Graham Hansen follows at 90 for Barcelona. Teammates Patri Guijarro and Mapi Leon reach 89, giving Barcelona seven players in the top 23, more than any other club.
Arsenal shines with five in the top 23, including Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey at 89. They tie with OL Lyon for second place.
England’s national team stands out with six players making the cut:
- Alessia Russo (Arsenal)
- Chloe Kelly (Arsenal)
- Beth Mead (Arsenal)
- Leah Williamson (Arsenal)
- Lucy Bronze (Chelsea)
- Lauren Hemp (Manchester City)
This shows the growing depth in women’s soccer, with national teams like England pushing boundaries.
Impact on Gameplay and Fan Reactions
These ratings will shape strategies in modes like Ultimate Team, where high-rated cards drive team building. Gamers look forward to using stars like Mbappe for speed and Salah for finishing.
Social media erupts with debates, from Yamal’s upgrade to Ronaldo’s drop. Leaks from August matched many official reveals, building hype.
The full ratings database arrives soon, with possible updates as the 2025-26 season unfolds. Preorders offer early access starting September 20.
Looking Ahead to Release and Beyond
FC 26 introduces new features like enhanced AI and updated stadiums, making ratings even more crucial. Experts say these choices reflect a shift toward current form over legacy status.
As soccer evolves, so do the games. Fans can expect competitive esports scenes built around these top players.
What do you think of the ratings? Share your picks for overrated or underrated stars in the comments, and pass this along to your gaming friends.
