All Returning Players in EA FC 26 Ultimate Team

In the ever-evolving world of EA FC, the thrill of building squads with familiar faces keeps gamers coming back. With FC 26 Ultimate Team introducing fresh dynamics like updated evolutions and squad chemistry tweaks, the return of certain players adds layers of strategy. These comebacks stem from club transfers, lifted bans, or licensing shifts that bring back cards absent in previous editions. 

These additions promise diverse playstyles for all skill levels. Squad builders can now experiment with new formations, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics. As the season kicks off, focusing on these returning talents could give your club an edge in rivals or weekend league runs.

Key Players Returning to FC 26 Ultimate Team

Several standout names are set to reappear in packs and markets, offering fresh options for team construction. Their cards reflect real-world moves and potential upgrades through in-game features. Below, explore the details on why they're back and how they fit into the mode.

FC26 Icons Leading the Charge

Icons remain a cornerstone for high-end squads, and this cycle sees some big returns. Zlatan Ibrahimovic headlines as a striking force, with his card boasting solid attributes for aerial duels and finishing. Based on early leaks, his 92 overall rating includes pace at 79, shooting at 94, passing at 82, dribbling at 86, defending at 34, and physical at 85. Playstyles like Power Header+ and Acrobatic make him a threat in crossing setups. His inclusion stems from icon status updates, allowing gamers to pair him with modern attackers for hybrid builds.

• Zlatan's fit:
  • Strong in physical battles, ideal for hold-up play.
  • Weak foot at 4 stars, skill moves at 4 stars for versatile attacking roles.
  • Potential for evolutions to boost pace, turning him into a meta staple.

Paul Pogba also rejoins the fray after his ban lift, signing with Monaco. His base card sits at 79 overall as a CM, with pace 70, shooting 76, passing 83, dribbling 82, defending 68, and physical 82. Playstyles such as Long Ball Pass+ and Technical+ highlight his vision and control. "Premier League legends return as @EASPORTSFC Heroes!" echoes a sentiment from the official Premier League account on X, capturing the excitement around comebacks like this one.

FC26 Player Transfers: Bringing Fresh Talent

Club switches have enabled several players to return, filling gaps in leagues like Ligue 1 and La Liga. 

1. Thiago Almada moves to Atletico Madrid, escaping prior licensing issues with the Brazilian league. His projected card is 83 overall CAM, featuring pace 85, shooting 80, passing 82, dribbling 87, defending 50, and physical 68. With playstyles like Finesse Shot+ and Flair, he suits creative midfield roles.

    

2. Richard Rios arrives at Benfica following a strong Palmeiras stint. Expected at 86 overall CM, stats include pace 82, shooting 79, passing 81, dribbling 84, defending 78, and physical 83. His Relentless playstyle aids in box-to-box duties.

    

3. Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting joins the NY Red Bulls in MLS, likely starting at 78 overall ST. Pace 70, shooting 78, passing 70, dribbling 75, defending 40, physical 75, with Aerial+ for headers.

    

4. Ivan Perisic continues with PSV, rated around 83 LM, pace 80, shooting 80, passing 82, dribbling 81, defending 75, physical 78, playstyles Dead Ball+ for set pieces.

    

5. Carlos Alcaraz returns to Everton post-loan, projected 80 CM, pace 75, shooting 78, passing 79, dribbling 82, defending 70, physical 76, with Incisive Pass.

    

6. Douglas Costa signs with Sydney FC, 80 RW, pace 85, shooting 78, passing 80, dribbling 85, defending 45, physical 70, Trivela+ for outside-foot shots.

    

7. Dele Alli, now a free agent after Como, could appear as 78 CAM, pace 75, shooting 78, passing 80, dribbling 82, defending 60, physical 75.

    

8. Steven Nzonzi bolsters Stoke at 78 CDM, pace 60, shooting 70, passing 78, dribbling 75, defending 80, physical 82, with Block+ for defensive solidity.

These transfers not only refresh the player pool but also open doors for chemistry links in diverse squads. For those looking to integrate more FC players, the expanded database provides ample choices.

Buy FC 26 Coins now to stock up on resources and snag these cards early, avoiding market inflation during launch hype

FC26 Returning Players Stats Overview

This table summarizes projected base cards, subject to official reveals. Use it to plan evolutions or SBC fodder needs.

Evo Potential and Squad Building Tips

Returning players shine in evolutions, where boosts to attributes can transform mid-rated cards into elites. Pogba's technical base makes him a prime candidate for stamina and pace upgrades, potentially reaching 85+ overall. Similarly, Almada's dribbling lends itself to attacking evos, enhancing flair for skill-based plays. Perisic's versatility across wings and fullback positions allows flexible squad tweaks.

In career modes bleeding into UT, these returns add realism, with players like Rios offering breakout potential in objectives. Bullet points for quick tips:

• Prioritize chemistry: Pair Pogba with French links for max boosts.
• Market watch: Snag low-rated returns cheap for future promos.
• Playstyle synergy: Combine Aerial+ strikers with Dead Ball+ deliverers for set-piece dominance.

Overall, these comebacks enrich FC 26 Ultimate Team, blending legacy with innovation for endless squad experiments.