Time: 2025-09-29
The FC 26 Cornerstones players are now in packs, but the excitement doesn't stop there. The challenging Ultimate Gauntlet mode is set to launch shortly, bringing a new strategic layer to the game.
This recurring mode, returning every two weeks during Season 1, tasks you with building and managing up to three separate squads to earn superior rewards. What does this mean for you, and how can you prepare your club for this new challenge?
Understanding the Ultimate Gauntlet Rules
The core rules are simple but demanding:
You must build three entirely separate squads (including benches), totaling 54 unique players.
After each match, the squad you used is locked and unavailable for the next round.
You have one attempt per day and must complete all three matches, regardless of results.
This structure means a single elite team is not enough. You'll need to strategically build your club depth, making savvy use of your FC 26 players or the transfer market to fortify your second and third teams. This will inevitably drive up demand for affordable, meta gold cards, likely causing short-term price spikes.
Secure Your Ultimate Gauntlet Squads with FC 26 Coins from MMOMAX
Trading Tips for Ultimate Gauntlet
Capitalize on Squad Battles Rewards: Sunday, after Squad Battles rewards drop, is a prime investment window. The market gets flooded with new, tradable cards, causing a temporary price dip. As Ultimate Gauntlet goes live on Monday, demand for these utility players will surge. Buy low on Sunday and sell high on Monday for a quick profit.
The 85 OVR Retegu SBC: While not a top-tier card, this SBC is cheap to complete. He's perfect as a high-rated squad filler or a super-sub for your Gauntlet teams, making him a recommended completion.
Player Investment Strategies
Focus on short-term arbitrage with practical players around the 10,000 coin mark. However, be cautious with midfielders due to the potential release of a popular SBC like Leon Goretzka on Monday, which could increase midfielder supply.
Alternatively, consider investing in high-rated (84-85 OVR) fodder to prepare for potential SBC requirements. After Squad Battles, players have more coins, which may boost demand for mid-to-high-tier players (70,000-80,000 coins).
Cards from Team of the Week (TOTW) and TOTW 2 remain solid long-term investments due to their scarcity. "Extinct" promo cards, like some Cornerstones, are also worth watching, as their fixed supply can lead to price increases once they are out of packs.
Recommended Investment Targets:
80 OVR Thomas Müller (~500 coins): An affordable and effective chem link.
84 OVR Xavi Simons (~3,400 coins): A high-value, meta attacker.
83 OVR Kingsley Coman (~1,100 coins): Offers valuable Saudi League and French links.
84 OVR Pickford (~4,200 coins): A popular Premier League goalkeeper.
Market Outlook & Recent Events
The recent FC Points exploit on PC, which caused significant market disruption, has been resolved by EA, with bans and coin wipes for offenders. The console market was unaffected.
The new Prime Bronze and Silver Upgrade SBCs, refreshed weekly, are EA's way of regulating the silver market. By increasing supply, they prevent silver players from becoming overpriced due to requirements in modes like Silver Tournaments.
Preparing for Ultimate Gauntlet requires strategic planning. Building three competitive teams is a challenge that will expose any weaknesses in your club. Choose an investment strategy that fits your coin balance. With FC 26's slower player depreciation but also less generous rewards, building your dream squad can be a grind. For players looking to fast-track their progress, MMOMAX offers a secure platform to buy FC 26 coins and players, ensuring you're ready for any challenge.