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)
In FC 25, Ligue 1 boasts a variety of top-tier central midfielders (CMs) and defensive midfielders (CDMs), each with unique attributes that make them valuable in different playstyles. One standout option is Vitinha from PSG. His combination of 87 dribbling, 84 passing, and 77 shooting makes him a dynamic and creative force in the midfield. Despite his relatively low physicality (68), his ability to control the ball and dictate play from deeper positions makes him a must-have for teams looking for technical midfield control, all for a reasonable price.
For managers looking for a solid cost-benefit option, Fabián Ruiz offers incredible value. With 80 passing, 80 dribbling, and impressive height (6’2″), Fabián is perfect for a possession-based game, providing both physical presence and technical ability. His controlled body type ensures smooth movements in tight spaces, while his decent 76 shooting means he can contribute offensively. Fabián represents one of the best low-cost midfielders in the game for those who want a balanced performer.
Warren Zaïre-Emery is another intriguing option, priced at only 700 coins. With his well-rounded stats, including 80 dribbling, 79 pace, and 77 passing, Zaïre-Emery brings both defensive solidity and attacking capability. His 4-star weak foot allows him to play versatile roles in midfield, either as a deep-lying playmaker or as a box-to-box option. His balance of pace and technical skills makes him a valuable asset for budget-conscious managers seeking a young, developing player with high potential.
Lastly, Manuel Ugarte, although costing no coins in some modes, stands out for his physicality (80) and defensive capabilities. Ugarte’s strength (78) and stamina (80) allow him to dominate the midfield, breaking up opposition play while offering decent distribution with his 73 passing. His combination of length and control makes him ideal for those needing a pure CDM with a defensive mindset, providing exceptional value, especially in defensive setups.
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)
In FC 25, Ligue 1 boasts a wide array of central midfielders (CMs) with diverse attributes that can significantly impact gameplay. Vitinha, playing for PSG, is one of the most dynamic options. His exceptional dribbling and passing abilities allow him to control the tempo of the game, making him a perfect fit for managers who favor a possession-based approach. With solid pace and agility, Vitinha can easily weave through the midfield while also providing key passes in attacking plays, making him a versatile playmaker.
For those looking for a more physically imposing midfielder, Fabián Ruiz offers a unique combination of height and technical skills. Standing at 6’2″, Ruiz excels at intercepting passes and shielding the defense, thanks to his defensive awareness and strength. His composure on the ball and his ability to deliver precise long passes also make him a great asset for starting counterattacks. Ruiz’s versatility allows him to be deployed in deeper roles while maintaining a significant presence in build-up play.
A cost-effective yet highly efficient option is Zaïre-Emery. Despite being an affordable choice, Zaïre-Emery brings balanced stats across the board, making him ideal for managers who need a box-to-box midfielder. His strong dribbling, combined with decent passing and defensive stats, allows him to contribute both offensively and defensively. This makes him an excellent choice for managers looking to optimize their budget without sacrificing midfield stability.
Lastly, Jordan Veretout is another standout for his well-roundedness. Veretout’s stamina and high work rate allow him to cover significant ground, making him a reliable option in both attacking and defensive transitions. His ability to distribute the ball effectively while maintaining defensive discipline makes him a great choice for teams that rely on a balanced midfield presence. For managers seeking consistency and balance, Veretout is a solid all-around option.
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)
In FC 25, Ligue 1 offers an exciting selection of central attacking midfielders (CAMs) that bring unique attributes to the game. Ousmane Dembélé is one of the top-tier options due to his blistering pace and dribbling skills. Though primarily a winger, Dembélé’s ability to play as a CAM allows him to create numerous scoring opportunities, both for himself and for his teammates. His quick footwork and five-star weak foot make him highly unpredictable, capable of cutting inside or delivering dangerous through balls. In high-pressure matches, his flair and agility give him the edge to break down tough defenses.
For a more affordable but equally effective option, Téji Savanier is a fantastic choice. Savanier excels in passing and dribbling, with a playstyle perfect for controlling the game’s tempo. His ability to orchestrate attacks from deeper midfield positions and deliver precise long balls makes him an excellent playmaker. Furthermore, Savanier’s vision and composure on the ball mean he’s always a threat when distributing to the wings or feeding strikers through tight spaces. For managers focused on a possession-heavy style, Savanier is a cost-effective option that delivers top-tier performance.
Another versatile player is Carlos Soler, who can operate both as a central midfielder and attacking midfielder. Soler’s balanced attributes in passing, shooting, and dribbling make him a reliable box-to-box midfielder. His strength lies in his consistency—he offers a well-rounded skill set, contributing defensively while also playing a vital role in buildup plays. Soler’s stamina and ability to hold up the ball allow him to remain effective throughout the game, making him an essential figure in midfield transitions.
Lastly, Marshall Munetsi stands out as an excellent value-for-money option, offering physicality and defensive prowess in the midfield. Despite being categorized as a central midfielder, Munetsi’s attributes make him more suited for breaking up opposition plays and winning aerial duels. His strength and defensive awareness make him a valuable asset in a CDM role, while his decent dribbling and passing allow him to contribute offensively when needed. For managers looking for a budget-friendly option with a focus on defensive stability, Munetsi provides excellent value with his balanced stats.
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)
In FC 25, Ligue 1 offers several standout right midfielders (RMs) and right wingers (RWs) with a variety of playstyles that can suit different team setups. Ousmane Dembélé is arguably one of the top picks, thanks to his combination of exceptional pace and five-star skills. His dribbling ability makes him a nightmare for defenders, and his five-star weak foot ensures he’s a dual-threat on either side of the pitch. Dembélé’s ability to cut inside or deliver precision crosses allows him to adapt to different attacking strategies, making him a versatile and explosive winger who excels in one-on-one situations.
A more budget-friendly yet effective option is Marco Asensio, whose passing and shooting abilities make him a well-rounded playmaker from the right side. Asensio may not have the same raw pace as Dembélé, but his ball control and passing range allow him to contribute significantly to buildup play. His strength lies in his ability to deliver dangerous crosses and take shots from distance, making him an ideal choice for managers looking for creativity over speed. Asensio’s four-star weak foot also ensures he’s not limited in his offensive contributions.
For managers looking for an explosive winger, Bradley Barcola stands out with his blistering pace and height. Barcola excels in stretching defenses with his speed, making him a constant threat on counter-attacks. Though his defensive attributes are lower, his ability to outpace defenders and deliver balls into the box makes him a great option for teams that focus on fast breaks. His height also gives him an aerial presence, a rare trait for a winger, which adds another dimension to his game, especially during set pieces.
Finally, Romain Del Castillo offers an excellent balance between cost and effectiveness. His pace and dribbling are strong, and while not the flashiest player, his consistent ability to deliver crosses and navigate tight spaces makes him a solid, reliable option. For managers working with a tighter budget, Del Castillo provides a dependable option without sacrificing too much on technical skills, making him a cost-effective winger that can perform well in a variety of formations and playstyles.
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)
In FC 25, several left midfielders (LMs) and left wingers (LWs) from Ligue 1 excel not only in their ratings but also through their on-pitch performance and versatility. Wilfried Zaha stands out as one of the most explosive options in this category. With his impressive pace and five-star skill moves, Zaha is incredibly effective in creating space and dribbling past defenders. His physical presence and agility also allow him to be a constant threat on the wing, whether delivering crosses or cutting inside for a shot. He is an ideal player for managers who want a dynamic, fast-paced winger with elite dribbling skills.
Another excellent choice is Alexandr Golovin, whose balanced attributes make him one of the most well-rounded midfielders. Golovin’s dribbling, passing, and shooting abilities make him a strong playmaker on the left side, and his four-star weak foot allows for versatility in both attacking and build-up play. His ability to control the ball and deliver precise passes make him valuable in possession-based systems. Additionally, Golovin’s solid defensive stats contribute to his utility in transitioning from defense to attack, offering a bit more balance compared to pure attacking wingers.
For managers looking for a more affordable yet highly effective player, Amine Gouiri offers great value as a left midfielder or winger. His solid finishing, combined with decent dribbling and physical stats, make him a valuable asset for those who prefer a winger capable of contributing to both scoring and assisting. Gouiri’s versatility as both a striker and winger also adds tactical flexibility, allowing him to play different roles depending on the match situation. His well-rounded stats make him one of the best cost-effective options in the game.
Lastly, Moses Simon brings electrifying pace to the left wing, making him a fantastic option for those who rely on counter-attacks or quick offensive transitions. Simon’s speed, combined with his four-star weak foot, makes him dangerous when breaking down defenses. While his passing and physical stats are not as high as some other players, his sheer pace and ability to exploit space more than compensate for this, especially for managers who prefer high-speed wingers that can stretch the opposition’s defense.
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