EA Sports Unveils FC 26 Team of the Year: Star Players Recognized

Global Poll Results Announced

EA Sports has revealed the results of a massive global poll that saw millions of votes from gamers around the world, culminating in the announcement of the final men’s and women’s Teams of the Year for FC 26.

Players selected for their outstanding performances in 2025 will receive exclusive in-game items and enhancements. For the first time, a captain has been designated for each team, acknowledging their significant contributions over the year.

Additionally, EA Sports will grant a special card to the “12th player,” who narrowly missed selection for the FC 26 Team of the Year, as well as announce various honorable mentions to be disclosed by the end of January.

Team Highlights

EA SPORTS FC 26 Men’s Team of the Year

• Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma – Manchester City & Italy
• Defenders:
  • Jules Koundé – Barcelona & France
  • William Saliba – Arsenal & France
  • Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool & Netherlands
  • Nuno Mendes – Paris Saint-Germain & Portugal
• Midfielders:
  • Pedri – Barcelona & Spain
  • Declan Rice – Arsenal & England
  • Vitinha – Paris Saint-Germain & Portugal
• Forwards:
  • Ousmane Dembélé – Paris Saint-Germain & France
  • Erling Haaland – Manchester City & Norway
  • Kylian Mbappé – Real Madrid & France

Donnarumma has replaced Emiliano Martínez as the goalkeeper, having had an exceptional year which included winning the Champions League and the Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper award before joining Manchester City. The defensive lineup sees Koundé recognized for his contributions to Barcelona’s treble-winning season, while Mendes made a significant impact during PSG’s campaign.

The midfield trio has been completely refreshed, introducing Pedri, Rice, and Vitinha to replace prior selections. Mbappé serves as the inaugural captain of the men’s team, finishing the year as the top scorer with 59 goals in 58 matches.

EA SPORTS FC 26 Women’s Team of the Year

• Goalkeeper: Christiane Endler – OL Lyonnes & Chile
• Defenders:
  • Lucy Bronze – Chelsea & England
  • Millie Bright – Chelsea & England
  • Leah Williamson – Arsenal & England
  • Selma Bacha – OL Lyonnes & France
• Midfielders:
  • Aitana Bonmatí – Barcelona & Spain
  • Mariona Caldentey – Arsenal & Spain
  • Alexia Putellas – Barcelona & Spain
• Forwards:
  • Clàudia Pina – Barcelona & Spain
  • Ewa Pajor – Barcelona & Poland
  • Alessia Russo – Arsenal & England

Endler has taken the goalkeeper role after an impressive season at OL Lyonnes. Bronze retains her position as captain, following another successful year with both club and national team, having contributed to England’s Euro 2025 victory.

The midfield sees the return of Bonmatí and Putellas, both of whom had standout seasons and have claimed multiple Ballon d’Or awards. Russo joins the Team of the Year for the first time, rounding out a formidable attacking lineup that drove their clubs to significant successes.

Overall, the selection for the Teams of the Year reflects the remarkable performances of these athletes throughout 2025, celebrating their achievements in the gaming community and on the pitch.