The Best Defensive Midfielders
Several formations in Ultimate Team necessitate midfielders with a natural inclination towards defense. Central defensive midfielders primarily reinforce the backline but, depending on their attributes and work rates, can also instigate attacks, rendering their role on the field strategically significant.
When opting for a central defensive midfielder, various attributes must be taken into account: defending, for supporting the defense; strength, for more effective possession-winning; heading, for dominance in aerial duels like goal kicks; pace, for covering extensive spaces; stamina, enabling active participation in offensive and defensive maneuvers; passing and possession, facilitating attack initiation. In our assessment, defending and strength stand out as the most crucial attributes for this role.
Defensive midfielders are typically selected to bolster the defense, hence it’s logical for them to boast high defensive statistics. The CDM position occupies the area where most ball contests occur, and players with superior strength stand a better chance of securing possession.
Global Overview (CDM)
Frenkie de Jong excels as a central defensive midfielder due to his impressive dribbling and passing skills, making him a key player in possession-based play. His explosiveness allows him to move quickly across the pitch, contributing both defensively and offensively. With his strong positioning and defensive awareness, de Jong is a versatile option that can dictate play from deep while still providing solid defensive support.
Aurélien Tchouaméni brings physicality and defensive prowess to the CDM role, standing out with his length and ability to dominate aerial duels. His combination of defensive awareness and physical strength makes him a perfect anchor for protecting the backline, while his passing is reliable enough to initiate attacks. Tchouaméni is ideal for teams that need a physical presence in the midfield, as he excels in breaking up play and controlling the tempo.
Rodrigo De Paul is a well-rounded option in defensive midfield, with excellent ball control and dribbling skills. He offers good balance between defensive duties and forward runs, making him a dynamic choice for those looking for a player who can contribute to both ends of the pitch. De Paul’s ability to track back defensively while also creating chances in attack makes him a versatile and affordable option.
As a budget-friendly alternative, Martín Zubimendi provides solid defensive skills and good physical attributes at a low cost. He may not excel in one particular area but performs consistently across the board, especially in defensive positioning and passing. For those looking for a reliable option who can contribute defensively and keep possession, Zubimendi offers great value without sacrificing effectiveness in midfield.
The Best Centre Midfielders
The outcome of many games is determined in the midfield rather than near the goals. It is the players in these areas who have the responsibility to create opportunities and dictate the tempo of the game.
Centre midfielders play a crucial role in finding openings that can disrupt the opponent’s defense. Their ability to deliver accurate passes is essential in assisting forwards and creating scoring chances.
Furthermore, possessing strong dribbling skills enables the team to advance up the field, presenting potential challenges for the opposing team.
Global Overview (CM)
Jude Bellingham stands out as one of the best all-around midfielders in LaLiga, combining physical presence with exceptional technical skills. His ability to drive forward with pace, contribute to goals, and provide crucial defensive cover makes him a dominant force in the game. Whether it’s his ball control, vision, or athleticism, he consistently excels in multiple phases of play, making him a top pick for teams needing a box-to-box midfielder.
Federico Valverde brings another dynamic option, with a remarkable balance of speed, power, and versatility. His explosive runs and ability to transition from defense to attack are invaluable for teams looking for a midfielder who can stretch the field. His physicality and defensive attributes make him well-rounded, but his ability to shoot from distance adds another dimension to his game.
Luka Modrić remains a master of ball control and distribution. His passing ability, coupled with dribbling that can navigate through tight spaces, makes him an ideal choice for players who favor possession and intricate play. Though he may lack the physicality of some of his peers, his intelligence, agility, and skill in reading the game compensate for it, making him a key playmaker for any squad.
For those seeking an excellent cost-effective option, Rodrigo De Paul offers a superb mix of attacking and defensive attributes at a more accessible price. His work rate, ability to win tackles, and contribute offensively, especially in tight midfield battles, make him an excellent value pick without sacrificing too much in quality. He can support both defense and attack effectively, making him a versatile and reliable choice for midfield.
The Best Attacking Midfielders
The role of an attacking central midfielder is to be the primary creator of goal-scoring opportunities. They are expected to possess strong dribbling skills, accurate passing ability, a powerful long shot, and exceptional vision on the field.
Effective passing is crucial for these midfielders to provide assists to forwards. However, their impact in the team’s attacking play can be truly game-changing if they excel in dribbling as well.
Global Overview (CAM)
LaLiga offers a range of attacking midfielders (CAMs) in FC 25 that shine for their versatility, playmaking abilities, and overall impact on the game. Among the elite options, Jude Bellingham stands out with his well-rounded skill set, excelling in passing, dribbling, and physicality. His height and strong build make him a dominant force in midfield battles, while his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively adds immense value to any team. His relentless energy and controlled dribbling allow him to drive forward from midfield, making him a dangerous threat in both attacking and defensive transitions.
Luka Modrić continues to be a standout option with his superb passing range and close control. His agility and ability to turn under pressure make him a great asset for players who rely on possession-based football. Though not the most physically imposing, Modrić’s intelligence on the ball and his trivela passing trait make him a key playmaker, ideal for unlocking tight defenses. His explosiveness allows him to accelerate quickly in small spaces, making him a great choice for orchestrating attacks in the final third.
For those looking for a more cost-effective but still highly capable CAM, Dani Olmo is a top option. He offers a balance of solid dribbling and passing, with the added bonus of four-star skills and weak foot abilities, making him a versatile player capable of playing across multiple positions in midfield and attack. His controlled dribbling and ability to beat defenders one-on-one, combined with decent pace, make him an excellent value pick for teams needing an agile, creative midfielder without breaking the bank.
Finally, for those seeking height and physical presence in midfield, Mikel Merino is an excellent choice. Standing at 6’2″, he combines strong defensive attributes with solid passing and dribbling skills. His controlled style and lengthy build make him a dominant figure in aerial duels and midfield battles. Merino’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, while maintaining balance in the midfield, makes him a great option for those who prefer a more physical CAM who can hold up play and distribute effectively.
The Best Right Midfielders
Wingers play a crucial role in providing width to the team’s attacking play.
Pace is often the standout attribute for these players as they utilize their speed to outrun opponents. However, simply being fast is not enough to penetrate the opponent’s defense. A strong dribbling ability enables wingers to navigate past opposition players who stand in their path. Once they reach the opponent’s box, wingers must make critical decisions. Often, they opt to deliver crosses, highlighting the significance of having impressive passing statistics.
Global Overview (RM, RW)
Federico Valverde stands out as one of the top right midfielders (RM) in LaLiga thanks to his well-rounded attributes. His exceptional pace allows him to make quick transitions from defense to attack, while his passing and dribbling make him an effective playmaker on the wing. Valverde’s physical presence on the field also provides added strength and endurance, making him a versatile option for both attacking and defensive situations. His ability to contribute consistently on both ends of the pitch sets him apart from other players in this role.
Rodrygo is another standout player, known for his explosive speed and agility. His dribbling ability and flair make him a constant threat to defenders, while his balanced shooting and passing attributes enhance his playmaking abilities. Although his defensive stats are not his strong suit, Rodrygo excels in fast-paced, attacking play, where he can capitalize on counter-attacks or create opportunities in tight spaces. His versatility to play as both a right winger and forward adds value, making him a dynamic option for various formations.
Nico Williams is an excellent cost-effective choice for players seeking raw speed and offensive power on the wing. His lightning pace and strong dribbling abilities make him ideal for exploiting space behind defenses, while his five-star weak foot adds unpredictability to his game. Although not the most defensively inclined, Williams’ ability to consistently push forward and contribute to attacking sequences makes him a valuable budget option for players looking for pace and technical ability on a limited budget.
Marcos Llorente provides a more defensive-minded option for the right midfield position. His high pace and defensive stats make him a hybrid player who can track back to defend while still making forward runs. Llorente’s physicality and well-rounded stats in passing and dribbling make him a reliable player who excels in both attacking and defensive transitions. His versatility to play as a central midfielder or even a fullback further enhances his value in more tactical setups.
The Best Left Midfielders
Left wingers perform a comparable function to their counterparts on the opposite side.
Their primary asset is pace, which empowers them to outmaneuver opposing defenders. Yet, pure speed alone doesn’t ensure reaching the opponent’s box. A robust dribbling skill is essential for navigating past encountered opposition players. Upon entering the opponent’s box, the winger encounters the challenge of decision-making. Usually, crossing emerges as the preferred option, highlighting the importance of having strong passing abilities.
Global Overview (LM, LW)
A selection of the top left midfielders (LMs) and left wingers (LWs) in LaLiga within FC 25 showcases a mix of speed, skill, and versatility that can enhance any squad. Kylian Mbappé stands out with extraordinary pace and dribbling abilities, making him a nightmare for defenders. His 97 pace allows for rapid breaks, complemented by impressive shooting stats, ensuring he can finish from various positions. Similarly, Vinícius Júnior brings a dynamic presence on the left flank, with his agility and 95 pace enabling him to maneuver past opponents effortlessly. Both players not only excel in their primary positions but also have the ability to adapt as forwards or attacking midfielders, giving players tactical flexibility.
Among more affordable options, Nico Williams emerges as a fantastic value for money. Priced reasonably and boasting a blistering pace of 93, he can stretch defenses and create space for teammates. His well-rounded attributes, including solid dribbling and passing, allow him to contribute effectively in build-up play and quick counter-attacks. Raphinha also deserves mention as a well-rounded winger with a balanced skill set, making him suitable for various tactical setups. His capabilities in shooting and passing provide a reliable option for creating goal-scoring opportunities.
Gavi, though primarily a central midfielder, can be effectively utilized on the left due to his versatile skill set. His dribbling and passing attributes allow him to link up well with forwards while contributing defensively when needed. This adaptability makes him a valuable asset for players seeking to optimize their midfield and wing play. Additionally, Mikel Oyarzabal, known for his creativity and shooting, offers another strategic option, blending playmaking with goal-scoring threats from the left side.
Lastly, young talents like Lamine Yamal exemplify the next generation of footballers making waves in the game. While he possesses a unique combination of speed and skill, his relatively low cost makes him a prudent choice for budget-conscious players looking to enhance their squad. This blend of established stars and rising prospects ensures that players can assemble a formidable lineup capable of competing at the highest levels in FC 25.
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