With the FIFA cycle almost coming to an end, and EA in the process of creating the next instalment in their franchise, there is no bigger time for the FIFA team to analyse and study the ability of the players residing in their game. From the upcoming youth players at your average League 2 team to the superstars of Messi and Ronaldo, every player will be reviewed to get a measure of how accurate their ratings are, and whether they need updating.
The league that generates the most attention is the Premier League – after all, it is the most watched worldwide and draws the largest TV audience in many countries across the footballing world. EA have to make sure they hold a small margin of error with the players plying their trade here to avoid any unnecessary backlash. As a result, we are going to look at the players of each of the top clubs in the country, and give them a rating ourselves for FIFA 16. We will only be doing the players who have a chance at the first team, to avoid having to rate every young player in the team.
Here they are the FIFA 16 Premier League Players Predictions.
FIFA 16 Premier League Players Predictions
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FIFA 16 Chelsea Players Predictions
The London based side had a very solid season, with a Premier League and League Cup double – therefore many of their players will be expected to gain a few ratings and increase their stats.
GK -Thibaut Courtois – 88
The young keeper made a massive statement with his first full season at Stamford Bridge and during the 2nd half of the season performed to an exceptional level to keep Chelsea on target for their league title. With only De Gea realistically able to claim a better season, the keeper has to be on the receiving end of an upgrade for his efforts in the team.
GK – Asmir Begovic – 83
To replace the outgoing Cech Chelsea have signed Stoke’s former No. 1, and years of consistency at the Britannia Stadium should see Begovic gain a minor upgrade. A good signing by Mourinho, who will surely be able to count on the Bosnian if Courtois is unable to play.
RB – Branislav Ivanovic – 83
Ivanovic has been a consistent defender for years and his talents have largely gone unappreciated – yet Chelsea benefitted from his services throughout the season and as a result he should be ranked with the best full backs in Europe. He would gain a higher rating, but EA do not tend to rate full backs as highly as other defenders and sadly that means he won’t be on the same level as the rest of his cohort.
LB – Cesar Azpilicueta – 83
Despite playing most of his career at right back, Azpilicueta has found new form under Mourinho on the left back, and easily earnt the title of best left back last year. This should see him earn a +2 to become the highest rated left back in the league.
CB – John Terry – 84
The veteran defender enjoyed another excellent season with Chelsea as he captained them to their 4th Premier League title – yet sadly his age will limit the boost that EA will give to his stats. Nevertheless, Terry is deserving of an upgrade and should receive one.
CB – Gary Cahill – 82
Whilst the England centre back did not have as good a season as his other defensive team mates, he still showed why he is considered one of the best defenders in the country, and really has enough ability to warrant a boost in rating.
CB – Kurt Zouma – 75
When called into action by Chelsea Zouma performed his task well, and showed his versatility in a number of roles. He has become one of Europe’s most talented young players and therefore should make the step up to Gold for next FIFA.
RM – Willian – 83
Willian is one of Chelsea’s most underrated players and the high levels of effort he puts in across the pitch should see his FIFA 14 rating restored. He brings a lot of balance to the Chelsea line up and should be rewarded in game with a +1 overall.
RM – Juan Cuadrado – 83
The Colombian did not enjoy a productive run in the first team with Chelsea and found himself on the bench behind Willian at points in the season – yet his performances at Fiorentina and for Colombia are what keep him from getting a downgrade. Still a top player on his day and shouldn’t lose his rating over his dry spell this year.
LM – Eden Hazard – 90
At times last year the Belgian was unplayable for Chelsea. Hazard has a higher shot conversion rate than Cristiano Ronaldo, and only 2 fewer assists than the Portugal captain. He is the most fouled player in the league because defenders find it so tough to stop him in his flow. As a result, he has made massive steps to being considered one of the best players in the world and should earn a rating that puts him in that world class bracket.
CM – Cesc Fabregas – 86
Fabregas’s season was split into two halves – his outstanding first half where he led the European assists table, and his poorer 2nd half which saw him pick up a red card and suffer a few injuries. It was his passing and vision in the team that saw Chelsea pull away right from the start of the season, and that is more than enough to return to his FIFA 14 rating.
CDM – Nemanja Matic – 85
Matic is without any doubt one of the best defensive midfielders on the planet at the moment – his promise and solid attitude at Benfica has flourished into a world class midfielder at Chelsea, and should be given a boost in stats to match this.
CAM – Oscar – 83
The Brazilian play maker did not show his ability to the full in 2014-15, often looking out of touch and sloppy around his teammates. As a result Oscar should receive a minor downgrade, which would see him go down to 83, still a high rating for someone in his position but not one of the best in the league as his current rating may suggest.
CDM – Ramires – 81
Ramires found himself stuck behind Matic and Fabregas for much of last season, only getting into the team when either of the two were injured or suspended. Consequently his rating should be kept the same – he did not impress, but he was not disappointing, and keeps his 81.
CDM – John Obi Mikel – 76
Whilst Ramires’s form remained neutral for the most part, Mikel had poor performances whenever he found himself in the first team. His age has caught up with him, and he does not maintain the same fitness level that Matic and Ramires both share – which should see him receive a downgrade and potentially make him non-rare.
ST – Diego Costa – 86
Similar to Fabregas, Costa’s season was a tale of two halves, with a world class first half and a mediocre second half. His goals were crucial in keeping Chelsea 1st and despite a lack of goals in the 2nd half and in Europe the striker was one of the signings of the 2014-15 campaign. As a result he should keep the 86 rated upgrade that he received in the winter.
ST – Falcao – 84
A series of lethargic for Manchester United last season do not reflect well on the Colombian striker, and it will be a major surprise if he manages to keep a rating as high as 88, or indeed anything above 86. He will receive a major downgrade, but will still retain a decent card as his record for other teams is very prolific and warrants recognition in FIFA
ST – Loic Remy – 81
Whenever Remy featured for Chelsea, he made significant impacts with crucial goals in games won by a single goal margin. His ability should see him gain a small upgrade, and a rating closer to that of previous FIFA’s.
FIFA 16 Manchester City Players Predictions
Despite finishing 2nd and continuing their 4 year streak of finishing in the top 2, there were several players at the club who did not play to their full potential, and those who failed to live up to the clubs high standards. Some downgrades are expected to be heading City’s way.
GK – Joe Hart – 85
Hart earnt the Premier League Golden Glove for the 4th time in his career and was superb for City in an otherwise substandard season for the City defence. His performance in the Champions League tie v Barcelona was world class and it’s time his rating reflected that – and an 85 should give him that credibility.
GK – Willy Caballero – 79
Caballero made two appearances last year, and shouldn’t see any change with his card. Nothing else to say for him really.
RB – Pablo Zabaleta – 83
He has earnt himself the reputation of the best right back in the league in FIFA 15 yet last year he was caught out at times in the City defence, and Ivanovic has probably earnt himself the same level of recognition at Chelsea. Despite this, Zabaleta should keep his rating as he is still one of the best full backs in the league and a key part of City’s defence.
RB – Bacary Sagna – 80
Sagna barely received a game for City last year but that shouldn’t detract from the obvious ability that the Frenchman still has. Should keep his rating like Caballero as he would still play well for City is given the chance.
LB – Gael Clichy – 79
Clichy fell out of form for much of the 2014-15 season and became a bit of a liability at the back – and therefore should receive a downgrade for his shoddy performances. He is becoming eerily similar to Kyle Walker, who also holds very solid pace but lacks the defensive ability required to be a top full back.
LB – Aleksandar Kolarov – 78
Kolarov is still a decent player, even if behind Clichy in the squad, and should keep his rating for FIFA 16. His dead ball skills are enough to keep him at 78, even if at times his defending has not been excellent.
CB – Vincent Kompany – 85
Kompany has not held good form for an entire year now and his status amongst the best defenders in the world is slipping as a result. Despite this, the Belgian is still a key part of the City defence and will retain a very good rating for a defender – even if it is a rating below what it is this year. 85 seems fair considering his poor performances this year.
CB – Eliaquim Mangala – 78
Mangala did not enjoy a good season at City whatsoever, with his shambolic defending and rugged decision making turning him into the worst defender at City last season by a mile. He will struggle to hold onto his 80 rating and should slip down into the high 70s, most likely at 78. This, of course, will be a bonus for teams built with cheap players as his pace will no doubt be used by those needing a quick fix.
CB – Martin Demichelis – 79
Demichelis was the laughing stock of City despite not doing terribly last season and this year he has become a more reliable defender at the club than many of his cohort. He probably did not perform well enough to earn an upgrade, but was not bad by any means and should keep his 79 rating.
RM – Jesus Navas – 80
The Spaniards stint in England has proven to be a revelation in the exaggeration of Navas’s ability as a player. Poor decision making, sloppy dribbling, a failure to find the net and limited impact against the top teams make Navas a clear contender for the biggest downgrade and should be moved down to an 80 rating.
LM/CAM – David Silva – 89
Silva has received a lot of criticism in the past for not performing to the level that his ability demands, but 2014-15 was one that really highlighted his importance to the team. Superb dribbling, brilliant passing and a good eye for his teammates make him fully deserving of an upgrade to 89. The only thing uncertain is whether he will be shifted out to LM again or back at CAM.
LM – Samir Nasri – 82
An injury hit season did not excuse the poor performances that were given by Samir this season, as the Frenchman failed to use his ability to make much of an impact. Pales in comparison to team mates like Silva, and will be receiving a downgrade almost definitely.
CM – Yaya Toure – 85
The Ivorian midfielder did not hit the heights that he did in 2014-15, and his age is slowly beginning to show with less dominant performances in the middle of the pitch. A downgrade is due, however he will not lose too many of his solid stats as he still can make the difference for City in the middle of the pitch.
CM – Fernandinho – 80
The former Shakhtar man will look back on 2014-15 with disappointment. Failed to perform to the level that his 82 card would have suggested and often looked lackadaisical in the City midfield. Will not be expected to keep such an extortionately high rating for FIFA 16.
CDM – Fernando – 77
Fernando was another player who failed to make the grade as a Matic style CDM last year, and was perhaps an even poorer fit than Fernandinho – meaning a downgrade is likely to be given to him. City did not see a return in the extortionate fee paid for the Brazilian and will be hoping Fernando can try and rectify last season’s mistakes.
CM – Fabian Delph – 78
Enjoyed an energetic and progressive spell under Tim Sherwood at Aston Villa, and if given game time can build on that form at the Etihad. Deserves a big boost in rating as well as a rare card for a player who has been an England international for nearly a year.
CAM – Raheem Sterling – 80
The abuse has been continuous for the former Liverpool attacker but after a lacklustre campaign with Liverpool Sterling should be able to develop his game further with players like Aguero and Silva around him. He will most likely keep his rating as he still was one of Liverpool’s best players in 2014-15 and will hope to perform well in 2015-16 as his transfer fee suggests.
ST – Edin Dzeko – 83
Dzeko suffered from a lack of playing time last year, and a 15 game dry spell in front of goal meant he only scored 6 from 31 appearances in the season. A move away looks likely – yet the Bosnian should not lose his rating as he is still a very able striker with a good record in previous years.
ST – Sergio Aguero – 89
One of the best strikers in the world when he stays fit, and one of the key players at Manchester City. Won the golden boot last year and looks set to lead the line in a similar fashion – and such ability should see his rating boosted to the world class level that the Argentine clearly plays at.
ST – Wilfried Bony – 81
Bony did not feature much in the City team, only gaining a few sub appearances and one or two starts, yet his performances for Swansea should be more than enough to let Bony keep his rating. A good alternative for Aguero and a solid card at 81 should be seen in FIFA 16.
FIFA 16 Arsenal Players Predictions
3rd place in the league, solid victories over Liverpool and Manchester City, and another FA Cup gives Arsenal another great season to build on. Many of their players were exceptional and will surely be the recipients of upgrades across the board.
GK – Petr Cech – 85
One of Arsene Wenger’s most important signings in recent years, as his performance in the Community Shield displayed. The former Chelsea no. 1 did not get much game time in 2014-15, being behind Courtois, but clearly still holds much of his ability and class and should keep his rating with ease.
GK – David Ospina – 78
Managed to displace Wojciech Szczesny from the starting line-up, and followed it up with decent performances for the team. The Colombian is growing in recognition as a keeper and should receive a boost in rating as a result.
RB – Mathieu Debuchy – 80
Debuchy was unlucky to have so many injuries inflicted upon him last season, and should keep the same rating as a result. Next season will be more of a test for him if he stays fit.
RB – Hector Bellerin – 75
One of the biggest breakthroughs of the season came in the form of Hector Bellerin. Arsenal looked set to struggle with injuries littered all over the defence yet his dominant displays made sure the Gunners did not fall apart. Deserving of a massive upgrade and just about enough to get a gold card – which would be another huge bonus for those looking to build cheap pace teams.
LB – Kieran Gibbs – 80
Looked a natural fit for England when deployed out on the left, and was solid there for Arsenal when remaining fit. Whilst 80 may be a bit generous, the England full back has performed when needed to and is deserving of recognition for that.
LB – Nacho Monreal – 79
Monreal has taken vast amounts of criticism from Arsenal yet his hard work and graft in the team is more than often ignored. Another stand in for the injured Gibbs and at times a CB in for Koscielny, he was crucial at times for Arsenal and fully deserving of a big upgrade next year.
CB – Laurent Koscielny – 84
The most important defender at the club. Keeps Arsenals defence organized, is excellent in the air, and deals with fast strikers better than the majority of defenders. Easily one of the best CBs in the league, and deserving of an upgrade to match that.
CB – Per Mertesacker – 81
The same cannot be said of Per Mertesacker – his pace has been exposed several times this season such as in the Champions League and he is not the defender that his 83 rating would suggest. He can cope against smaller teams but attackers with confidence have not found it hard to beat him – and he should receive a downgrade.
CB – Gabriel – 77
The Brazilian did not receive enough playing time to be given an upgrade or downgrade, so shouldn’t change from his 77 card.
RM – Theo Walcott – 81
The go to man for pace should keep his rating again – another injury hit season has prevented him from having the impact he could have done but when he is played up front he has found goals and he did at points last season. He should remain at RM though given the competition for ST at Arsenal.
RM – Alex Oxlade Chamberlain – 80
Walcott’s cheaper replacement is deserving of some recognition for his ability – he has a decent shot to him and knows how to make an impact in a game. Whilst the prediction is generous he does hold serious ability and could find himself gaining more plaudits with a good run of form in 2015-16.
CAM – Mesut Ozil – 87
He has come in for much criticism during his time at Arsenal yet his continued influence in the middle of the park for his team cannot be ignored. One of the most influential players at the club in terms of playing style and deserves his FIFA 14 rating back.
CM – Santi Cazorla – 86
The Spaniard is another player who controls play for Arsenal. Performances such as the 2-0 win over Man City show why he is so coveted by clubs in Spain and why Arsenal have done well to keep him for the next few years. When kept in the middle Arsenal play a far greater game and should give him a nice upgrade at CM.
CM – Aaron Ramsey – 83
Though not as stellar as 2013-14, Ramsey still contributed to the overall campaign with goals and assists, including a fantastic effort against Galatasaray in December, and should keep his rating. Useful all round player for Arsenal to have in their squad.
CM – Jack Wilshere – 82
Wilshere, when fit, can be very difficult to stop. Solid performances for both England and Arsenal have shown that he is on his way to reaching the potential that his early career promised, and his current form is more than worthy of improving his rating to 82.
CDM – Mikel Arteta – 78
With his influence in the team’s midfield already dipping, an injury hit season was not what Arteta would have wanted as club captain. It is sad to see him losing physicality with his age but he is not the midfielder he used to be and his rating should reflect that in FIFA 16.
CAM – Tomas Rosicky – 80
When Rosicky gets a game, he nearly always looks impressive and a natural fit to the Arsenal playing style – which prevents Rosicky from receiving a downgrade. However for years he has found himself behind his teammates and with his age it will be harder for Rosicky to keep up the performances necessary to earn a 80 rating.
CDM – Mathieu Flamini – 76
Age has caught up to Flamini in the same way that is has affected Arteta, and he finds himself with less game time and falling in importance at Arsenal – this will most likely see him drop a rating down to 76.
CDM – Francis Coquelin – 75
The young Frenchman has become Arsenal’s most reliable CDM over the course of a few months, and his solidarity for the side in the 2nd half of 2014-15 should see him rocket up in rating to become a Gold player. A very good player to have in the team for Wenger.
RW – Alexis Sanchez – 86
Arsenal’s most important player of 2014-15’s first half was easily Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean winger lifted Arsenal in numerous games and made a statement of intent for the club with the players that it wanted to sign. Is fully deserving of a card approaching the world class bracket and will surely be a key player in 2015-16.
ST – Olivier Giroud – 80
Giroud may not be a world class striker but his role in the team regarding link up play and positioning is key. The player knows how to earn a goal from tight positions and that should earn him a minor upgrade to reach the 80 standard.
ST – Danny Welbeck – 79
Welbeck may not score as many as other strikers around him, but his work attitude and energy in the team make him a valuable asset for Wenger to have at his disposal. Combine that with a hat-trick against Galatasaray, and leading the way for England in the European qualifiers, and you have enough to earn him a marginal boost in rating.
FIFA 16 Manchester United Players Predictions
After a disappointing 2013-14, Louis van Gaal has successfully steered United to within a play–off of the Champions League. This should see a few upgrades across the squad for their players.
GK – David De Gea – 88
It is not often a goalkeeper can be considered the best player at a club but if there were ever a case for it de Gea would have won it. His performances kept United afloat for much of the 1st half of the season and should be rewarded with a card to put him on the same platform as other world class goalkeepers such as Courtois and Neuer. If he stays at the club it will be a massive bonus for United.
GK – Anders Lindegaard – 77
Looks to be on his way out of the club but even so a 77 rating for FIFA 16 seems fair, given that he did not gain much playing time at the club.
GK – Sergio Romero – 75
Argentina’s No. 1 is good enough to receive a gold card, even if his performaces at the Copa America were not excellent. He is not a top goalkeeper but a decent stand in and worthy of a gold card at least.
RB – Matteo Darmian – 77
One of the underrated stars of Serie A now has a home at Old Trafford and will surely be set to have a good 2015-16 for United. He should receive a boost in rating anyway as he is now a RB instead of a RM, and his improved stats at RB will see him get a push into the Gold category.
LB – Luke Shaw – 75
Luke Shaw had an inconsistent first season at United, with solid performances in some games, and recklessness and ill-discipline following it in the next. He shouldn’t lose a rating as his ability is still enough for a gold card, yet if he is to continue to develop his game he will need a longer run in the team, and thus should not receive an upgrade.
CB – Jonny Evans – 77
Evans has been substandard for a good few years now and incidents such as the one against Papiss Cisse last season do not help his cause. Should be given a downgrade and reduced to 77 overall.
CB – Chris Smalling – 79
A much improved defender under Louis van Gaal, and his performances this year deserve a card on the same level as England teammate Phil Jones. Smalling can easily fulfill the potential shown during his time at Fulham and early years at United, and will hopefully continue to impress for both club and country.
CB – Marcos Rojo – 80
As with many other players, Rojo played well when fit but wasn’t fit for enough of the season. He was, however sublime when he played for Argentina and helps to dispel the myth that the country has no decent defenders in it. 80 is a fair rating for Rojo.
CB – Phil Jones – 79
Jones’s commitment and tenacity whilst defending can be matched by very few others in the Premier League. On the other hand his decision making can be very poor and leads to costly mistakes being made at the back for the side. It is his recklessness that prevents him from getting an upgrade, as at points in 2014-15 he looked far more composed and reliable than ever before in a United shirt.
RM – Antonio Valencia – 81
Valencia’s versatility paid off this season – despite players like Mata and Di Maria occupying his preferred RM position he was able to effortlessly switch to a full back position to prevent United’s defensive injuries from costing the team points. His blistering speed and improved defensive ability should see the Ecuadorian gain a rating for FIFA 16.
LM – Ashley Young – 80
One of United’s most overrated players in past FIFA’s, Young has seemingly turned his form around with a series of solid performances in the team. His once laughable crossing and passing has turned into a skill effective enough to keep Angel di Maria out of the team – this warrants recognition, and should give him enough to get an 80 rated card
CAM – Angel Di Maria – 86
Whilst he looks set to join PSG, Di Maria still has a rating that can be debated. Whilst he did not enjoy a great season with United, he still managed to tally an impressive number of assists, which reflect well on his record there. In addition the argument can be made that Di Maria deserved an upgrade following his move from Real Madrid, in which he was their best player of the 2013-14 season. Taking all form from 2013-15 the rating should be left at 86 – as despite a poor return for the Manchester side he is still a world class player that could play well at most clubs around the world.
CM – Bastian Schweinsteiger – 88
A world class player like Schweinsteiger will no doubt be a huge signing for van Gaal. However, Schweinsteiger’s injury problems have prevented him from building on the form that saw him lift the World Cup with his national team. This will ultimately prevent him from gaining another rating – though really 88 is very solid in its own right and should satisfy his ability.
CM – Juan Mata – 86
Whilst Oscar often found a lack of form at Chelsea, Mata showed his former club what they were missing out on with some of his performances for the Reds. The £40m man performed exceptionally well in games against Liverpool and will look to build on his good form in the new season, where he should have an upgraded 86 rating.
CDM – Morgan Schneiderlin – 81
Southampton will dearly miss Schneiderlin going into the new season, and United will reap the benefits of having him in their squad. The player has performed well for a number of seasons in the Premier League and he provides cover to a region that was often stretched when Carrick got injured – and as a result should see an upgrade up to an 81.
CDM – Michael Carrick – 81
Carrick may have felt hard done by his -3 downgrade between FIFA 14 and 15 but his form – when fit – this year has been crucial to the 4th place finish that the team has accomplished. His card is in need of a boost to match the passing and graft that accompanies Carrick’s game and a boost up to 81 should do that.
CM – Marouane Fellani – 80
The former Everton man performed as was asked under van Gaal and finally looks more settled in his deeper role as a CM. Should be in line for a marginal upgrade for his efforts.
CM – Ander Herrera – 81
Spain’s ability to produce quality attacking playmakers is one matched by none worldwide, and Herrera’s talent should not go unrecognised for FIFA 16. He was sublime at times for United and his hard work should give him a boost in rating.
CDM – Daley Blind – 80
Similar to Valencia, Blind was asked to play in a number of positions over the course of the season and did so with diligence. His defensive work should see him gain a rating to move up to 80 as a result.
LW – Memphis Depay – 81
Depay has been one of the best players of the Eredivisie for a good few years and a reunion with van Gaal with no doubt hugely benefit the player. Depay should see his card get a boost up to around 81 and his ability will surely shine through under a manager who has seen the best of him at the World Cup last year.
ST – Javier Hernandez – 81
A season on the bench at Real Madrid has done little to convince van Gaal that Hernandez is still viable to stay at the club but his rating should remain at 81 – he is still a good striker when given time in the team. It will be finding that time that will be Hernandez’s biggest concern for 2015-16.
ST – Wayne Rooney – 87
Despite Rooney recording his lowest goal tally since joining the club, it is clear that Rooney has still had a good season in his new role as club captain. He was deployed a lot deeper by van Gaal where he used his good ball control and passing to have an impact, and when played up front could still be clinical and efficient. Should return to his FIFA 14 rating.
FIFA 16 Tottenham Spurs Players Predictions
A season of progress at Tottenham after the disappointment of the wasted money under Andre Villas Boas, and the emergence of one player in particular will get many Tottenham fans looking forward to 2015-16.
GK – Hugo Lloris – 86
Another excellent season for Lloris has seen another wave of bids come in for the Frenchman. Regardless of that, Lloris is deserving of an upgrade and will more than likely return to his FIFA 13 rating of 86, which has the potential to go higher if his form continues into next year.
GK – Michel Vorm – 79
Vorm has not got much action since his move to Tottenham and is set for another season on the bench – making it very likely that he will keep his current rating.
RB – Kyle Walker – 76
The England defender has struggled for fitness but even so has not been the defensive prospect Tottenham were hoping he would develop into. With the exception of his pace Walker has often been caught out by attackers and thus should lose a rating.
RB – DeAndre Yedlin – 72
Yedlin has enjoyed success with Seattle Sounders and can challenge Kyle Walker’s spot in the team with continued form going into 2015-16. He should get a substantial upgrade going into 2015-16.
LB – Danny Rose – 75
Rose over the past year has been considered for England duty and established himself fully in the Tottenham team. He should get the marginal upgrade to move him to gold status.
LB – Ben Davies – 75
Davies has become a seasoned Wales international and were it not for injury the young Spurs full back would have featured more prominently this season. Another promising young player that Tottenham have in their team who should be making the step up to gold fairly shortly.
CB – Eric Dier – 75
A season in the Premier League has let Dier show off some of his European experience with Sporting, and he now looks a far more accomplished centre back as a result. Ignoring the poor European under 21s, Dier has made progress over the 2014-15 season and should receive an upgrade heading into FIFA 16.
CB – Jan Vertonghen – 82
Tottenham’s defensive mistakes last year were panned by many critics, yet one man – Jan Vertonghen – has stood out above the rest. It is no coincidence that Tottenham’s finest period of form came when Kaboul was replaced by Vertonghen, and as a result he should retain his place.
CB – Federico Fazio – 79
Fazio shouldn’t take too much of the blame, with main perpetrator Kaboul shipped out of the club, but his defensive performances were not always great last year and the Argentine looks set to lose a rating as a result.
CB – Toby Alderweireld – 80
Kaboul’s replacement will surely give Tottenham a large stride towards fixing their defence. At Southampton the Belgian was superb in a parternship with Jose Fonte, and will surely form a crucial partnership with Jan Vertonghen in the heart of the Spurs back line. The upgrade is a given at this point.
RM – Aaron Lennon – 79
Lennon played well on loan for Everton which balances out the relatively dry spell he had whilst under Pochettino in the first half of Tottenham’s season. Should retain his rating for FIFA 16.
RM – Erik Lamela – 78
A very frustrating player to have in the team – one minute he will use his technical ability to score a fantastic goal, the next he will struggle to beat a defender and fail to string together a pass. Whilst his ability is there he has a long way to go before he can restore the FIFA 14 rating of 80, and will likely remain at 78.
RM – Andros Townsend – 75
Townsend, when playing well, can be a game changer – look to the England game against Italy for an example of what he is capable of. His growing confidence and ability should be reflected in his rating and that should see him leap up to a gold card at 75.
LM – Nacer Chadli – 78
Chadli, before Harry Kane started firing goals in for Tottenham, was the team’s top scorer at the start of the season and has shown his skill in games internationally and at club level. An upgrade should be on its way for the Belgian.
CAM – Christian Eriksen – 85
The first half of the 2013-14 season saw the young Dane put in performances worthy of a world class label. Whilst the 2nd half did not reflect on the achievements of the first, it is quite obvious that Eriksen is on the way to the very top of world football as one of the best playmakers in Europe. An upgrade will surely be heading his way.
CM – Moussa Dembele – 80
Dembele did not have a great season under Pochettino but it was not as awful as some have suggested, and nowhere near the level that Paulinho was performing at during his tenure at White Hart Lane. Should retain his rating – though is certainly on the cusp of losing it and dropping down to 79 or 78.
CM – Nabil Bentaleb – 75
Bentaleb is another young player looking promising at Tottenham. His ability on the ball is too high to be given a silver card, and should be the recipient of a gold card for FIFA 16.
ST – Harry Kane – 82
One of the breakthrough performances of the 2014-15 season came in the form of Harry Kane, who fired his way to 31 goals in 51 games and the PFA Young Player of the Year. As a result a massive upgrade should be heading to the young Englishman, and should put him firmly into the 80+ rated players.
ST – Emmanuel Adebayor – 78
The Togolese striker had a poor season under Pochettino and his ability in front of goal appears to be drying up. A downgrade following his seemingly imminent move to Aston Villa will accompany him over to FIFA 16.
ST – Roberto Soldado – 79
Soldado’s dry spell for Tottenham has become well known, and represents just one of the many failed signings made with the Bale transfer money under Villas Boas. Whilst his effort is praise worthy his goal scoring record isn’t, and a downgrade is almost certainly set to hit the Spaniard.
FIFA 16 Liverpool Players Predictions
The departure of star striker Luis Suarez, and injuries to strikers across the season left Liverpool struggling for goals up front – it was a striking feature in an overly negative season for the club following the excitement of 2013-14. But whilst the team on the whole struggled, there were still good performances from some members of the squad.
GK – Simon Mignolet – 81
Mignolet came in for a lot of criticism at the beginning of the season, with many calling for a massive downgrade for the Belgian. However his form did pick up in the 2nd half and he did put in some match winning performances – not enough to completely eliminate the prospect of a downgrade but enough to prevent the downgrade reducing the rating by more than one.
RB – Nathaniel Clyne – 79
A superb campaign with Southampton should see Clyne receive a hefty upgrade for FIFA 16. Both England and Liverpool have lacked a quality defender on the right flank for some years now and Clyne looks that natural fit to fill that role for years to come. 79 would be an increase of three on his current rating but really the upgrade could be even bigger, Clyne has played that well.
LB – Alberto Moreno – 76
A dire season at Liverpool has seen the Spaniard look out of his depth in the Premier League, and a downgrade in rating is expected for FIFA 16. Moreno will most likely leave Liverpool for Italy or Spain, where his pace will be better used – but in the Premier League just having pace is not an acceptable level for a defender at a top club.
CB – Martin Skrtel – 81
It is well known fact that Liverpool are a far stronger team defensively when Martin Skrtel plays, and whilst he does not deserve an upgrade he should not be one of the Liverpool players receiving a downgrade by any means.
CB – Mamadou Sakho – 80
A poor season for the Frenchman should see him lose a rating to slip down to 80. The defender was by no means the worst of the Liverpool defence but he did not have a good season and the downgrade will reflect that.
CB – Dejan Lovren – 77
Lovren has already become a joke name when listing centre backs in the Premier League and a weighty downgrade is surely on its way. The defender has not done anything to replicate his Southampton form and should see a big reduction in his rating.
CB – Kolo Toure – 76
Kolo Toure has become a shadow of the player he once was, with his lack of positioning and defensive awareness an easy feature to exploit for opposition attackers. Another Liverpool player heading for a downgrade in FIFA 16.
RM – Lazar Markovic – 77
The Serbian has failed to impress in his first season at Liverpool and a sending off in the Champions League won’t help his progress at Liverpool either. With Sterling gone, however, he has a chance to reinstate himself in the team for 2015-16 – but the downgrade will probably be heading Markovic’s way.
CAM – Philippe Coutinho – 83
Coutinho was one of the shining stars of 2014-15 for Liverpool, and would have vastly improved Brazil’s Copa America as well had he not been injured. He should easily move his rating to a higher 83, and looks set to lead the creative side of Liverpool’s game in 2015-16.
CAM – Roberto Firmino – 81
Liverpool have quite a few attacking playmakers stocked at the club now, and Firmino will hope to take his good form at Hoffenheim with him to Liverpool. The Brazilian faces stern competition from Coutinho and Lallana in the squad, and will have to play at his best to maintain a space in the squad. He should carry his rating from this season over to FIFA 16.
CAM – Adam Lallana – 80
Lallana will have to show more of the form seen at Southampton that earnt him a move to Liverpool if he is to stake his place in this highly competitive squad after a relatively quiet 2014-15 season for the Englishman, but his 80 rating is a fair one and one he has earnt following the 2013-14 season at the Saints.
CDM – Jordan Henderson – 82
He is the new cover star of FIFA in the UK and it is almost guaranteed that EA will be giving Henderson a big upgrade. Despite the turmoil of the 2014-15 season Henderson was a shining light, earning himself a team of the season and with Gerrard’s departure became the captain of Liverpool. An upgrade into the 80s is probably on its way, and Henderson will have to use his leadership skills to fill the gap left by Gerrard at the club.
CDM – Lucas Leiva – 79
More of a squad player than a key player at this point in his career, Lucas is still a useful player for Brendan Rodgers to have at the club. Hasn’t done much wrong when called upon and should easily keep his current rating of 79.
CM – James Milner – 80
Milner’s departure from Manchester City was seen as a loss for the club and Liverpool can gain a lot from the services of Milner. An upgrade should be given if Milner does get his wish and play at CM for Liverpool, and his versatility and graft will no doubt secure Liverpool’s squad depth for 2015-16.
CM – Joe Allen – 77
Allen had a relatively average season as whilst he didn’t do much wrong failed to captivate the team with his performances and did not perform to the standard needed at the top level. He is safe with his 77 rating for now yet will struggle to keep hold of it if a similar performance follows him into 2015-16.
CDM – Emre Can – 78
Emre Can should be viewed as another positive for Liverpool with his performances in 2014-15. When played at CDM he looked a solid choice, and far more secure than Gerrard had done previously at the position. So long as he stays in midfield Can should be in line for a substantial upgrade and a gold card in his natural position.
LW – Jordan Ibe – 70
The England youngster showed promise at times in last season’s campaign, and has been tipped as an automatic replacement for Sterling – and whilst such hopes seem fanciful, there is no doubt that given time Ibe could be a star of the future. Ibe should receive a decent upgrade for FIFA 16, however.
ST – Daniel Sturridge – 83
Injuries kept Sturridge away from the first team for the majority of the 2014-15 season. It must be said that Liverpool are a far more clinical team with him in the team and for that Sturridge should keep his rating heading into FIFA 16. When fitness is restored he will be a vital asset for Liverpool to have.
ST – Christian Benteke – 81
April’s Premier League Player of the Month did not truly come into form until the 2nd half of the season, but when he did find his touch Benteke fired Aston Villa away from the relegation zone, and into an FA Cup final. He is a definite improvement to the Liverpool strike force, and should be gaining an upgrade for 2015-16.
ST – Mario Balotelli – 80
Balotelli suffered immensely in his first season at Liverpool and whilst the play was not ideal for strikers it must be said that the Italian did poorly given the chances he was given. A downgrade is a certainty, and Balotelli must harness the talent that he possesses if he is to return to the higher scores of the 80s that he once held.
ST – Divock Origi – 76
Origi’s spell on loan at Lille should see him return to Liverpool as a substitute striker, but his ability has been seen in performances last year and will see him gain a marginal upgrade. Will most likely compete with Danny Ings for the spot as a reserve striker, as one will likely go out on loan.
ST – Danny Ings – 74
Danny Ings had a good season at Burnley, despite a goalless run towards the end of the season negatively affecting his form in front of goal. With more able and talented team mates Ings should be able to compete to a higher level and should make the most of his opportunities at the club – which is why the player should be the recipient of an upgrade to match it.
These were the FIFA 16 Premier League Players Predictions. Stay tuned with us for more FIFA 16 Players Predictions.
The Author: Owen Macdonald
Owen Macdonald is a 26 year old from London, United Kingdom and supports Fulham FC. Whilst a relative newcomer to the Ultimate Team franchise, having created his first team in FUT 13, Owen’s passion and ever growing knowledge of the footballing world has led to a love for FUT.
His enthusiasm for the game is not matched by many, and if asked will gladly talk about FUT and football on the whole for hours. Away from football Owen is a keen writer and enjoys politics and cinema.