Time: 2025-09-18
EA SPORTS FC 26 hasn’t even launched yet, but EA is already making moves—releasing its first official gameplay update before the game hits shelves. This unprecedented step shows the development team is serious about refining the experience based on early feedback. Here’s everything that’s changing in this pre-launch update.
Finesse Shot Nerf
Early testers found finesse shots overpowered—nearly every one was finding the net. EA has adjusted shot trajectories and animations, making them more realistic and less automatic. You won’t see the version from the trailers, but you will get fairer gameplay.
Goalkeeper Upgrades
Keepers are now more reliable and responsive, with:
Improved save animations and dive coverage
Better command of the box on crosses
More consistent reaction times
Low-Driven Shot Adjustments
The classic low-driven shot is back, but goalkeepers now read it better. It’s still useful—but no longer a guaranteed goal.
Defender vs. Attacker Balance
Defenders felt too fast compared to attackers, so EA optimized attacker ball control—reducing clumsy trapping animations. The result? Smoither turns and more realistic 1v1 situations.
AI Passing & Dribbling
AI-controlled players pass faster with fewer unnecessary touches
Dribbling has been tightened—especially on wet surfaces—so players keep the ball closer
AI Shooting
CPU players now take shots more decisively in good positions, making offline matches feel more authentic.
Career Mode
New challenges are waiting at launch:
European Royalty: Lead PSG to a Super Cup win or take Tottenham to a UCL final + Super Cup within 3 seasons. Rewards include classic kits.
Unlock icons like Fernando Torres, Marinette Pichon, and David Beckham.
Ultimate Team
Cornerstones Promo: Features leaders, key signings, and rising stars—all with +2 Chemistry and permanent upgrades.
Season 1 is England-themed with premium rewards.
New Icons: Pre-order or Ultimate Edition buyers get an Icon on Day 1.
Ultimate Gauntlet: A new competitive mode arriving post-launch.
New Stadiums
Al-Nassr Stadium is coming in a title update—though not available immediately at launch.
Seventeen-year-old sensation Rio Enga debuts as a 68-rated player with 90 Pace. With high potential, he’s a must-sign in Career Mode and could become an early Ultimate Team favorite.
EA isn’t waiting until after launch to make improvements. From rebalancing shots and keepers to delivering more content across modes, FC 26 is already evolving.
Want to build your Ultimate Team faster? For a quick start, be sure to check out mmomax for all your FC 26 in-game item needs—whether you’re on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC.
*EA SPORTS FC 26 launches worldwide September 26. Pre-order now to secure your Icon and get ready for a more responsive, balanced, and community-driven football experience.*