EA Sports FC 26 is set to put lower-league football firmly in the spotlight, offering fans the chance to control their favourite EFL players with a new level of realism.
Due for release on 26 September 2025, the third edition of the EA Sports FC series, since splitting from the FIFA franchise, will feature more than 750 clubs, including every team from League One. That means supporters can take control of the division’s standout performers, with new gameplay mechanics making stamina, dribbling, and tactical awareness more important than ever.
For players chasing promotion in Career Mode or looking for hidden gems in Ultimate Team, League One offers plenty of options.
League One’s Standout Cards
Jesper Daland (Cardiff City, 72 OVR)
Cardiff City centre-back Jesper Daland leads the defensive line with a strong 72 rating. At 6ft 2in, he brings aerial dominance and his physicality score of 76 makes him difficult to outmuscle. Defensively solid with 72 tackling, he represents a reliable choice for gamers looking to anchor their back four.
His card may lack pace at 58, but his awareness and positioning compensate, making him a traditional stopper with enough composure to thrive in Career Mode squads.
Teden Mengi (Luton Town, 72 OVR)
Partnering well in the digital world is Luton’s Teden Mengi, whose 78 pace gives him a huge advantage over other defenders in the division. His card also carries a 72 defensive rating and 74 physicality, marking him out as one of the most versatile centre-backs in League One.
Controlled lengthy acceleration adds to his presence, giving players the option of pushing him high to deal with counter-attacks or sitting him deeper to soak up pressure.
Elijah Adebayo (Luton Town, 72 OVR)
Up front, Elijah Adebayo offers a powerful outlet for anyone starting a League One career. Standing at 6ft 4in, his physicality rating of 79 is backed up by 83 strength and 85 jumping, making him a dominant aerial threat.
With 72 finishing and 74 pace, his card reflects his ability to trouble defenders both in the air and on the ground. For Career Mode players, his combination of power and mobility will be hard to ignore when building a promotion-chasing side.
Chris Willock (Cardiff City, 72 OVR)
On the flanks, Chris Willock provides creativity and flair. Rated 72 overall, his standout attribute is dribbling at 75, complemented by 79 pace. Willock’s four-star skills and balance of technical qualities make him a constant danger when driving at defenders.
With 71 finishing, he also poses a goal threat, while his PlayStyle options add variety to attacking moves. His versatility as a winger or wide playmaker gives gamers tactical freedom in both Ultimate Team and Career Mode.
Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town, 72 OVR)
Completing the list is Marvelous Nakamba, who provides balance in midfield. With 71 defending and 74 physicality, his card mirrors his role as a combative holding midfielder. Nakamba’s ability to read danger and protect the backline makes him a vital card for building structure in-game.
While his attacking output is limited, his high work rate and stamina ensure he screens the defence effectively, freeing creative teammates to push forward.
