FC 26 Player Ratings Predictions: The Biggest Upgrades, Downgrades, and Shock Changes Coming to Ultimate Team

• Lamine Yamal Set for a Massive Breakthrough
• Kylian Mbappé Holds His Ground at Real Madrid
• Ousmane Dembélé’s Champions League Heroics Deserve Recognition
• Mohamed Salah’s Best-Ever Base Card in Ultimate Team
• Virgil van Dijk Back to His Best at 91 Overall
• Haaland and Bellingham: A Surprising Downgrade Duo
• The Decline of Two GOATs: Messi and Ronaldo
• Conclusion: What Are Your FC 26 Rating Predictions?

EA Sports FC 26 is on the horizon; there’s no better time to start speculating which football superstars will see their ratings soar—and which will take a hit. Every year, EA stirs up debates across the footballing world with their player ratings, and FC 26 looks to be no different. From breakout wonderkids to seasoned legends, the next edition of Ultimate Team promises exciting changes in the player hierarchy. Let’s dive into some bold rating predictions for FC 26—and feel free to share your own thoughts in the comments below!

Lamine Yamal Set for a Massive Breakthrough

Lamine Yamal had a solid presence in FC 25 with a base rating of 81, but that modest number doesn't tell the full story of his incredible rise. The young Barcelona sensation was one of the brightest sparks in La Liga this past season, dazzling fans with his creativity, flair, and maturity far beyond his years. He has already cemented himself as a regular starter for Barça, and it’s clear that EA can’t ignore his meteoric ascent any longer.

In FC 26, it’s not unrealistic to expect Yamal to receive a significant boost, perhaps even a staggering +7 to reach an 88-rated gold item. That would place him among the elite young talents in Ultimate Team, on par with some of the world’s most dangerous wingers. His dribbling, pace, and technical stats are sure to be elite-tier, making him a fan favorite right from the game’s launch.

Kylian Mbappé Holds His Ground at Real Madrid

Despite Real Madrid not enjoying their most dominant season, Kylian Mbappé’s arrival has been the shining light at the Santiago Bernabéu. The French superstar continued to do what he does best: score goals, make headlines, and terrorize defenses. His influence on the pitch hasn’t dipped, and for that reason, it’s fair to assume EA will maintain his 91 rating going into FC 26.

Mbappé will almost certainly remain the most meta striker in the game at launch, blending blistering pace, sublime dribbling, and clinical finishing. His consistency at the top level means he’s practically untouchable when it comes to downgrades. Whether you love or hate him, you’re going to need him in your squad if you want to dominate the pitch.

Ousmane Dembélé’s Champions League Heroics Deserve Recognition

Ousmane Dembélé has been nothing short of sensational for PSG this season. He played a pivotal role in their UEFA Champions League triumph, contributing with goals and assists when it mattered most. The French winger has shown his full potential, finally delivering on the promise that made him a big-money signing years ago.

Considering his form and the silverware he helped bring to Paris, EA could reward him with a well-deserved upgrade. A bump up to an 89 overall rating would reflect his rise and solidify him as one of the most dangerous wingers in Ultimate Team. His five-star skills, electric pace, and improved composure will make him a nightmare for defenders in FC 26.

Mohamed Salah’s Best-Ever Base Card in Ultimate Team

Mohamed Salah’s campaign with Liverpool was one for the record books. The Egyptian winger shattered club and league records with his consistent goal-scoring and match-winning performances. Despite turning 33, Salah showed no signs of slowing down and remained Liverpool’s most reliable attacking weapon.

A two-point boost to a 91 overall rating feels like the right reward for such a phenomenal season. This would mark his best base item ever at launch in an EA football game, and with upgraded shooting and positioning, he’s bound to become a top-tier right-winger for Weekend League squads in FC 26.

Virgil van Dijk Back to His Best at 91 Overall

Alongside Salah, Virgil van Dijk enjoyed a stellar campaign for the Reds. The Dutch colossus led the defense with authority and consistency, reminding everyone why he’s still one of the best centre-backs in the world. His presence, strength, and leadership were key in Liverpool’s top-four finish and strong title challenge.

EA might finally acknowledge Van Dijk’s return to form by awarding him a 91-rated base card. If this happens, he could start FC 26 as the highest-rated defender in the game. Expect high defensive awareness, strength, and aerial ability, making him an anchor in any elite Ultimate Team defense.

Haaland and Bellingham: A Surprising Downgrade Duo

Erling Haaland might have bagged 22 goals in the Premier League, but injuries and a dip in form slightly dampened his impact this season. For a player with the highest of standards, a marginally quieter campaign could result in EA shaving a point off his overall. A drop to 89 rated wouldn’t be shocking and would still reflect his world-class abilities.

Similarly, Jude Bellingham started strong at Real Madrid but couldn’t quite replicate his previous season's goal-scoring form. While he remained an integral midfield force, the lack of offensive output might warrant a minus one rating, dropping him to 85 overall. Still, expect him to maintain elite box-to-box stats, making him a staple in midfield setups.

The Decline of Two GOATs: Messi and Ronaldo

Let’s address the icons of modern football Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. As much as fans might hate to admit it, time is catching up with the legendary duo. For the first time in Ultimate Team history, Ronaldo may enter the new season with a mere 85 overall rating, his lowest base card ever. Playing in the Saudi league and no longer dominating top European competitions, CR7’s status in FUT is undoubtedly waning.

On the flip side, Messi is still lighting it up for Inter Miami in the MLS. While not quite at his Ballon d'Or-winning best, his creativity and technical brilliance remain. A small downgrade to 87 overall seems likely, but his dribbling, vision, and passing will keep him extremely viable, especially as a central playmaker. Even with the decline, Messi still feels like a walkout-worthy player in FC 26.

Conclusion: What Are Your FC 26 Rating Predictions?

Those are our bold predictions for some of the biggest names heading into FC 26. From massive upgrades like Yamal and Dembélé to surprising downgrades for Haaland and Ronaldo, the upcoming ratings shake-up could dramatically shift the meta in Ultimate Team. Whether you agree or disagree, these forecasts are bound to stir up debates across the community.

Make sure to drop your own rating predictions in the comments below. Who do you think will be the most overpowered player in FC 26? As always, stay tuned throughout the summer for more in-depth coverage, news leaks, and Ultimate Team guides as we head toward the highly anticipated release of EA Sports FC 26!

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