Best EA FC 26 Fullbacks 2025 Top 25 RB & LB for Career Mode

The best fullbacks in EA FC 26 Career Mode range from Achraf Hakimi's elite 89 rating to hidden gems with massive potential, with PSG dominating the top spots and Real Madrid's Trent Alexander-Arnold bringing his 86 rating after his high-profile transfer. These modern fullbacks can transform your tactical setup as inverted midfielders, box-to-box runners, or traditional wing-backs, making them essential for any successful Career Mode campaign.

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Quick Overview: Top Fullbacks at a Glance

Top 5 Fullbacks	Position	Rating	Team	Key Stats
Achraf Hakimi	RB	89	PSG	Pace: 95, Defending: 78
Jules Kounde	RB	87	Barcelona	Defending: 86, Physical: 80
Nuno Mendes	LB	86	PSG	Pace: 92, Dribbling: 83
Trent Alexander-Arnold	RB	86	Real Madrid	Passing: 90, Vision: 88
Federico Dimarco	LB	85	Lombardia FC	Crossing: 87, Stamina: 85

I've spent countless hours analyzing EA FC 26's Career Mode to bring you the definitive guide to fullback signings. Whether you're managing a Champions League contender or building a mid-table project, this comprehensive breakdown will help you find the perfect defensive flankers for your system.

The Complete Top 25 Fullbacks in EA FC 26 2025

Elite Tier (85+ Rating)

The cream of the crop in EA FC 26's fullback department offers immediate world-class quality:

1. Achraf Hakimi (RB, PSG, 89) - The undisputed king of fullbacks returns after a trophy-laden season. His blistering pace and attacking prowess make him unstoppable down the right flank.
2. Jules Kounde (RB, Barcelona, 87) - France's defensive maestro offers versatility, capable of playing center-back when needed. His technical ability suits possession-based systems perfectly.
3. Nuno Mendes (LB, PSG, 86) - Portugal's rising star partners with Hakimi to form PSG's devastating fullback duo. At just 22, he has room for further growth.
4. Trent Alexander-Arnold (RB, Real Madrid, 86) - Following his blockbuster move from Liverpool, TAA brings his legendary passing range to the Spanish capital. Perfect for teams that build from deep.
5. Federico Dimarco (LB, Lombardia FC/Inter, 85) - Italy's creative left-back offers exceptional crossing ability and set-piece delivery. A bargain considering his quality.
6. Dani Carvajal (RB, Real Madrid, 85) - The veteran Spanish defender remains reliable despite his age. His experience and leadership qualities are invaluable.

Top Tier (83-84 Rating)

These fullbacks offer near-elite quality with significant potential for growth:

7. Josko Gvardiol (LB, Manchester City, 84) - Croatia's versatile defender can play anywhere across the backline. His physical presence and ball-playing ability make him perfect for Pep-style systems.
8. Marc Cucurella (LB, Chelsea, 84) - Spain's tenacious defender brings energy and defensive solidity. His work rate and pressing intensity suit high-pressing tactics.
9. Alphonso Davies (RB, Bayern Munich, 84) - Canada's speed demon has switched flanks but remains lightning quick. His recovery pace makes him ideal for high defensive lines.
10. Denzel Dumfries (RB, Lombardia FC/Inter, 84) - The Netherlands powerhouse offers physical dominance and aerial ability. Perfect for teams that defend deep and counter.
11. Theo Hernandez (LB, Al-Hilal, 84) - The French speedster's move to Saudi Arabia makes him potentially available. His attacking output rivals most wingers.
12. Marcos Llorente (RB, Atletico Madrid, 84) - Spain's utility man can play multiple positions. His versatility and stamina make him invaluable for squad rotation.
13. Joao Cancelo (RB, Al-Hilal, 84) - Portugal's technical wizard offers creativity from deep. His ability to invert into midfield creates numerical advantages.

Quality Options (82-83 Rating)

Solid performers who won't break the bank:

14. Alejandro Balde (LB, Barcelona, 83) - La Masia's latest gem offers pace and potential. At 21, he could develop into a world-beater with proper game time.
15. Jeremie Frimpong (RB, Bayer Leverkusen, 83) - Netherlands' attacking fullback sensation brings explosive pace and dribbling. His potential makes him a smart long-term investment.
16. Ben White (RB, Arsenal, 83) - England's versatile defender offers reliability and consistency. His ability to play center-back provides tactical flexibility.
17. Giovanni Di Lorenzo (RB, Napoli, 83) - Italy's captain brings leadership and defensive intelligence. His experience makes him perfect for younger squads.
18. Milos Kerkez (LB, Liverpool, 82) - Hungary's rising star joins Liverpool's revolution. Already tied to the club, making him unavailable in your first season.
19. Jurrien Timber (RB, Arsenal, 82) - Netherlands' technical defender returns from injury stronger. His ball-playing ability suits possession-based football.
20. Pedro Porro (RB, Tottenham, 82) - Spain's attacking right-back offers goals and assists. His shooting ability makes him a threat from distance.
21. David Raum (LB, RB Leipzig, 82) - Germany's crossing specialist delivers pinpoint balls. His left foot is among the best in the game.
22. Antonee Robinson (LB, Fulham, 82) - USA's speed merchant offers raw pace and improving technical ability. A budget option with room for growth.
23. Maximilian Mittelstädt (LB, Stuttgart, 82) - Germany's rising talent had a breakout season. His potential makes him an excellent investment.
24. Konrad Laimer (RB, Bayern Munich, 82) - Austria's versatile midfielder-turned-fullback offers tactical flexibility. His work rate and pressing are exceptional.

Value Pick (81 Rating)

25. Reece James (RB, Chelsea, 81) - England's injury-plagued star has dropped in rating but remains quality when fit. A potential bargain if you can manage his fitness.

Transfer Strategy: Smart Signings for Every Budget

Big Club Strategy (€100M+ Budget)

If you're managing Real Madrid, Manchester City, or PSG, target the elite tier immediately. Hakimi and Kounde command premium fees (€80-120M) but transform your defense instantly. Consider pairing an elite fullback with a high-potential youngster for the future.

Priority Targets:

• Hakimi for immediate impact
• Gvardiol for versatility
• Balde for long-term development

Mid-Table Ambitions (€30-60M Budget)

Focus on the 82-83 rated bracket where value meets quality. Players like Antonee Robinson (€25-35M) and David Raum (€30-40M) offer excellent bang for your buck. These signings can elevate your team without destroying finances.

Smart Buys:

• Robinson for pace and potential
• Porro for attacking output
• Timber for versatility

Lower League Gems (Under €20M Budget)

Scout the wonderkids and players from smaller leagues. While not on this top 25 list, players with 75-79 ratings often have 85+ potential. Focus on loans with option to buy for immediate quality.

Hidden Gems to Scout:

• Look for young Portuguese and Dutch talents
• Scout South American leagues for raw potential
• Consider loan deals for Cancelo or Theo Hernandez

Tactical Analysis: Maximizing Your Fullbacks

The Modern Inverted Fullback

With EA FC 26's new tactical system, inverted fullbacks are more effective than ever. Players like Cancelo and Alexander-Arnold excel when drifting into midfield, creating overloads and dictating play from deep positions.

Best for this role:

• Trent Alexander-Arnold
• Joao Cancelo
• Marcos Llorente

Traditional Wing-Backs

High-pressing systems demand fullbacks who can cover enormous ground. Davies, Hakimi, and Robinson offer the pace to support attacks while recovering defensively.

Ideal candidates:

• Alphonso Davies
• Achraf Hakimi
• Antonee Robinson

Defensive Fullbacks

For teams prioritizing clean sheets, focus on defensive stats over attacking prowess. Kounde and White offer solidity without sacrificing ball-playing ability.

Top defensive options:

• Jules Kounde
• Ben White
• Giovanni Di Lorenzo

Wonderkids and Future Stars

While established stars dominate the top 25, EA FC 26's Career Mode rewards long-term planning. Here are fullback wonderkids with massive potential:

Right-Back Prospects

• Jeremie Frimpong - Already 83-rated with 88+ potential
• Rico Lewis (Manchester City) - Versatile and technical
• Martim Fernandes (Porto) - Hidden gem with elite potential

Left-Back Prospects

• Alejandro Balde - Can reach 90+ rating with proper development
• Milos Kerkez - Liverpool's new signing has 87+ potential
• Luca Netz (Borussia Mönchengladbach) - Budget option with high ceiling

Career Mode Features Impacting Fullback Development 2025

EA FC 26 introduces game-changing Career Mode features that affect fullback development:

Dynamic Development Plans

Customize training to develop specific attributes. Transform defensive fullbacks into attacking weapons or vice versa through targeted training programs.

Loan System Improvements

You can now loan freshly bought players immediately. Perfect for developing young fullbacks who need game time but aren't ready for your first team.

ICONs and Heroes Integration

Unlock legendary fullbacks through the Season Pass. Imagine pairing current stars with Roberto Carlos or Cafu in your ultimate squad.

Transfer Negotiation Tips

Timing Your Approach

• January Window: Clubs are more willing to sell backup fullbacks
• Summer Window: Better selection but higher prices
• Contract Expiry: Monitor players with 1-2 years remaining

Negotiation Strategies

1. Player Exchange: Offer surplus wingers or midfielders plus cash
2. Sell-On Clauses: Reduce initial fee by including future percentages
3. Performance Bonuses: Structure deals with appearance/trophy bonuses

Dealing with Top Clubs

PSG rarely sells Hakimi or Mendes unless you offer astronomical fees. Consider unsettling players through media comments or waiting for transfer requests.

Building Your Defense: Pairing Strategies

Balanced Approach

Pair an attacking fullback with a defensive one:

• Right: Hakimi (attacking)
• Left: Gvardiol (defensive/versatile)

All-Out Attack

Deploy two attacking fullbacks for maximum width:

• Right: Alexander-Arnold
• Left: Theo Hernandez

Youth Development

Mix experience with potential:

• Right: Carvajal (experience)
• Left: Balde (potential)

Platform-Specific Considerations

Next-Gen Consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X/S)

Enhanced player animations make pacey fullbacks even more effective. The improved defensive AI means positioning matters more than pure speed.

PC Version

Mod support allows for updated transfers and ratings. Consider community patches for the most realistic experience.

Previous Gen (PS4, Xbox One)

Pace remains king on older hardware. Prioritize speed merchants like Davies and Robinson for maximum effectiveness.

Advanced Scouting Tips

Key Attributes to Prioritize

For Attacking Systems:

• Pace (85+)
• Crossing (80+)
• Dribbling (75+)
• Stamina (85+)

For Defensive Systems:

• Defensive Awareness (80+)
• Strength (75+)
• Heading (70+)
• Tackling (80+)

Hidden Attributes That Matter

• Work Rates: High/High ideal for box-to-box fullbacks
• Weak Foot: 4-star minimum for inverted fullbacks
• Skill Moves: 3-star helps beat pressing forwards

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overpaying for aging stars - Carvajal is quality but consider his age
2. Ignoring stamina - Fullbacks cover the most ground
3. Neglecting weak foot ability - Crucial for inverted roles
4. Buying without scouting - Always scout for injury proneness
5. Ignoring chemistry - Fullbacks need partnerships with wingers and center-backs

Budget Alternatives Outside the Top 25

For managers with limited resources, consider these affordable options with high potential:

• Destiny Udogie (Tottenham) - 79 rated with 85+ potential
• Malo Gusto (Chelsea) - Young with excellent growth curve
• Rico Lewis (Manchester City) - Versatile and technical
• Conor Bradley (Liverpool) - Northern Irish talent with promise

FAQ Section

Which fullback has the highest potential in EA FC 26?

Alejandro Balde and Jeremie Frimpong have the highest potential among current fullbacks, both capable of reaching 90+ overall ratings with proper development and game time.

Is Trent Alexander-Arnold worth buying after his Real Madrid move?

Absolutely. His 86 rating and exceptional passing stats make him perfect for possession-based systems. His price may be high, but his playmaking ability from right-back is unmatched in EA FC 26.

Can I still sign Theo Hernandez and Joao Cancelo from Saudi clubs?

Yes, both players can be signed from Al-Hilal, often at reduced prices compared to their European valuations. They're excellent options for teams wanting world-class fullbacks without competing with top European clubs.

What happened to Reece James's rating?

James dropped to 81 due to persistent injury issues in recent seasons. However, he remains a quality option and could be a bargain signing if you can manage his fitness carefully.

Are there any must-avoid fullbacks in the top 25?

While all listed players offer quality, be cautious with older players like Carvajal (34) unless you need immediate short-term success. Also, James's injury record makes him risky for long-term planning.

How do inverted fullbacks work in EA FC 26's new tactical system?

The FC IQ system allows fullbacks to intelligently drift into midfield positions during possession, creating numerical advantages. Players with high passing and vision stats excel in this role.

Community Resources

Official Channels

• EA SPORTS FC Official Website - Latest updates and patch notes
• EA FC Reddit Community - Tips, discussions, and squad suggestions
• Official EA FC Discord - Real-time discussions and finding online opponents

Career Mode Resources

• FIFACM Database - Complete player statistics and potential ratings
• FUTWIZ Career Mode Calculator - Calculate player growth and wages
• YouTube Career Mode creators for tactical guides and player reviews

Social Media

• Follow @EASPORTSFC on Twitter for announcements
• Join Facebook groups dedicated to Career Mode discussions
• Check Instagram for squad building inspiration

Final Verdict: Building Your Dream Defense

The fullback position in EA FC 26 Career Mode has never been more important or exciting. Whether you're splashing cash on Hakimi's elite pace or developing Balde into a world-beater, success depends on matching players to your tactical philosophy.

For immediate success: Target Hakimi, Kounde, or Mendes For long-term building: Focus on Balde, Frimpong, or Kerkez For value signings: Consider Robinson, Raum, or Mittelstädt

Remember that in 2025's game, fullbacks are tactical Swiss Army knives. The best managers in EA FC 26 will be those who recognize their fullbacks aren't just defenders – they're playmakers, wing-backs, and sometimes even auxiliary midfielders.

The evolution of the fullback position reflects modern football's tactical revolution, and EA FC 26 captures this perfectly. Whether you prefer traditional defending or modern inverted roles, this list provides options for every style and budget.

Start your Career Mode journey in September 2025 with the confidence that you're building on solid defensive foundations. These 25 fullbacks represent the best the game has to offer – now it's time to bring them to your club and dominate both flanks.

Ready to revolutionize your defense? Boot up EA FC 26, head to Career Mode, and start building your dream team with these elite fullbacks. Don't forget to experiment with different tactical setups to maximize their potential.