With 2026 World Cup finals approaching, EA Sports FC 26 player community is entering its most anticipated phase. As the world's most watched football tournament, World Cup not only changes the storylines of real-world football but has also been a major source of inspiration for EA's annual large-scale events.
Given EA's history of using major tournaments for special content, 2026 World Cup cycle could turn Summer Stars into one of the biggest promos in FC 26 history.
Beyond high-rated cards, these events often become snapshots of a football era, giving players iconic items tied to memorable moments.

Summer Stars May Be the Biggest World Cup Promo
World Cup is held every four years, and content built around it often carries special significance. Players gain not only high-rated players but also a star representing the football memories of this era.
Past World Cup-related events have often become important milestones for Ultimate Team. The expanded scale of 2026 World Cup gives EA more room to create a game event that truly captures the essence of football.
Based on the currently leaked roster, Summer Stars for FC 26 aren't simply built around World Cup underdogs or tournament performances, but focus directly on players with the greatest global influence. But star power alone does not guarantee dominance in Ultimate Team.
FC series has increasingly relied on player models, PlayStyles, and game mechanics compatibility in recent years. Whether a top-rated card will ultimately become a popular choice depends on actual gameplay and the update environment.
Top Superstar Arrives
Currently leaked information indicates that Messi is expected to receive a 98 OVR.
This card retains his technical characteristics, emphasizing dribbling, passing, and shooting abilities, while also incorporating abilities like Tiki Taka+ and Finesse Shot+.
Messi's combination of technical ability, nostalgia, and unique in-game feel makes him one of the most desirable cards, even if the competitive meta does not fully favor his playstyle. For players who enjoy possession-based, short-passing, and technically oriented play, he will remain a very special player.
However, from a competitive standpoint, whether Messi can become the absolute core of FC 26 remains to be seen.
In recent years, FC series has increasingly emphasized speed, physical confrontation, and rapid progression in matches. Players who previously dominated matches with their agile dribbling may find themselves limited against high-intensity defenses.
While Messi represents the appeal of technical brilliance and nostalgia, Bellingham could become one of the most valuable cards from a competitive perspective.
The leaked Bellingham boasts near-all-around midfielder stats, with top-tier speed, shooting, passing, dribbling, and defensive abilities, along with Technical+ and Incisive Pass+ capabilities.
These characteristics perfectly match the midfield needs of FC 26 Ultimate Team. He can participate in both attack and defense, providing significant assistance in transitions. For players seeking a balanced lineup, Bellingham is likely to become one of the most sought-after cards.
A Star-Studded Attack
If Bellingham represents the future of midfielders, then Mbappé and Haaland represent two different answers to the current football attacking line. Mbappé represents explosive transitions and individual breakthroughs, while Haaland represents physical dominance and ruthless finishing.
In EA Sports FC 26, Mbappé has consistently been one of the most popular attackers. His speed, explosiveness, and dribbling ability have kept him among the top players for a long time. If his Summer Stars card maintains its expected performance, he will remain a popular choice in the market.
However, players have been familiar with Mbappé's strengths for years. What truly determines his strength is not simply improved stats, but whether PlayStyles can further amplify his characteristics.
In contrast, Haaland represents a completely unique playing style.
His Summer Stars card is expected to possess extremely strong finishing ability and physical advantages, coupled with abilities such as Finesse Shot+ and Quick Step+.
Compared to Mbappé, who relies on speed to break down defenses, Haaland is more like a penalty area finishing machine.
In the past, power forwards in FC series were often overlooked because of a lack of agility, but with the changing game environment, players with high shooting accuracy and strong physical abilities are becoming increasingly valued.
If Haaland can maintain good handling, he could very well become one of the most threatening center forwards in FC 26.
Beyond the two headline strikers, Summer Stars also offers several elite attackers with different tactical profiles. Vinicius, Salah, and Kane are also worth noting.
Vinicius is expected to receive a 98 OVR, and his characteristics are very much in line with the current game environment.
Vinicius is expected to receive a 98 OVR, and his characteristics are very much in line with the current game environment. Speed, dribbling, and ball control have always been the most important abilities for wingers, and Vinicius possesses these advantages.
If his special card maintains its excellent model and feel, he is likely to become a popular choice for FC 26 wing position.
Salah is more well-rounded. Compared to some players who rely on a single ability, Salah can complete dribbling and finishing, while also possessing good playmaking ability. His advantage lies in his greater adaptability, allowing him to integrate into various tactical systems.
Kane is a different type. Although speed is not his main characteristic, his shooting, passing, and physical abilities can meet the needs of players who prefer a possession-based style of play.
If players prefer positional attacks, Kane could be a very comfortable center forward choice.
A New Generation of Defensive Stars
While attacking players usually attract the most attention in Ultimate Team, defensive options often determine whether a squad can compete at the highest level.
Summer Stars is not just a stage for attacking players; the defense may also see an upgrade. In today's FC 26, center-backs not only need to complete tackles and interceptions, but their ability to distribute the ball out from the back is also becoming increasingly important.
Therefore, a technically gifted center-back like Laporte in this Summer Stars lineup might better suit the needs of high-level players.
Compared to Laporte's maturity and consistency, Cubarsi, another player joining Summer Stars, represents future potential. His addition also aligns with World Cup-themed event's focus on developing emerging stars.
For the latest EA Sports FC 26 updates, event news, and exclusive giveaways, players can follow EZG Facebook. The page will continue to share the newest FC 26 information and giveaways, helping players stay updated on upcoming content and special opportunities.
For FC 26 players, Summer Stars could become more than another special card release. It represents a chance to connect the virtual game with one of football's biggest global moments, making this World Cup cycle a memorable chapter in Ultimate Team history.


















