At his peak, his base card was 92-rated
EA FC 26 is almost here, and anticipation is high for the newest features, updated graphics, and refreshed Ultimate Team experience.
Yet, this year brings a major shift in the player roster that long-time gamers will immediately notice.
Several iconic players who have been staples in the gaming series for years will not appear in the upcoming release.
Their absence changes how fans build squads and approach matches, requiring fresh strategies and line-ups.
For loyal players, adjusting to these changes will be both challenging and exciting, as they navigate a game that’s evolving faster than ever.
With EA FC 26 set for general release on September 26, 2025, let’s look at seven players who won’t be in the game.
Neymar
Apart from Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar has arguably been one of the most well-known footballers of the 21st century, and in gaming circles, he has always been a must-have.
Known for his five-star skills, lightning pace, and lethal shooting, Neymar became the perfect addition to any Ultimate Team squad.
EA FC 26 won’t feature the Brazilian forward due to licensing issues with the Brazilian league, ending a remarkable run that started in FIFA 10.
At his peak, his base card was 92-rated, cementing his status as a legend in Ultimate Team.
Gamers will now need to adapt, missing the flair and creativity Neymar consistently brought to the virtual pitch.
Ivan Rakitic
Neymar’s former Barcelona teammate Ivan Rakitic is also set to disappear from EA FC 26.
After leaving Barca in 2020, Rakitic returned to Sevilla and enjoyed a four-year spell that included winning the 2023 Europa League.
A brief stint at Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia was followed by a return to Croatia with Hajduk Split before he retired in the summer.
His final card carried an 80 rating, marking the end of his Ultimate Team journey.
Known for precise passing and calm control in midfield, Rakitic offered gamers a reliable option to manage tempo and dictate play.
Roberto Firmino
Roberto Firmino’s unique style made him a key part of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool system, blending creativity, pressing, and finishing.
After eight years at Anfield, Firmino moved to Al-Ahli in the Middle East, and this summer, he joined Qatar’s Al Sadd.
Unfortunately for Ultimate Team fans, Qatar isn’t included in EA FC 26, meaning there will be no Firmino card this year.
While casual players may not notice immediately, those who appreciate his tactical intelligence and off-the-ball work will feel the difference.
Dries Mertens
Dries Mertens was a favourite among FIFA players, particularly for his blistering pace and deadly finishing.
During Belgium’s ‘Golden Generation’, he often served as an affordable alternative for those unable to get their hands on Eden Hazard.
His switch to centre-forward saw his rating peak at 87 in FIFA 18, and his long spell at Napoli cemented his reputation as a fan favourite.
After joining Galatasaray ahead of FIFA 23, Mertens spent three seasons in Turkey before retiring this summer.
EA FC 26 will now be without this dynamic forward, forcing gamers to find new players capable of breaking defences with speed and agility.
James Rodriguez
James Rodriguez’s return to Ultimate Team in EA FC 25 delighted fans, thanks to a special card featuring five-star skills, a five-star weak foot, and stats over 85 in pace, dribbling, passing, and shooting.
After a three-year absence while playing for Al-Rayyan, Olympiacos, and Sao Paulo, Rodriguez rejoined the game only to leave again after moving to Mexico’s Leon.
Liga MX will not be in the initial release due to contracts with Konami, the company behind eFootball.
But negotiations between EA Sports and the Mexican league are not closed, so it’s possible that the league might arrive in a future update.
But for now, EA FC 26 will be without the Colombian playmaker, who was known for precision passing and long-range shots.
Aaron Ramsey
Aaron Ramsey has been a reliable presence in Ultimate Team, earning 41 different cards throughout his career.
Known for balanced stats around the 70s at his peak, Ramsey offered midfield stability and versatility.
After leaving Arsenal in 2019 following an 11-year association, he moved to clubs that kept him in the game, including Juventus, Rangers, Nice, and Cardiff.
But like James Rodriguez, his transfer to UNAM Pumas in Mexico excludes him from EA FC 26.
Mats Hummels
Mats Hummels has been a staple in the series since FIFA 10, regularly earning special cards including TOTW, TOTS, TOTY, Flashback, FUT Birthday, and SBC variants.
Known for leadership, defensive intelligence, and aerial prowess, Hummels was a favourite for players building solid backlines.
When the German defender announced his retirement, EA FC 25 released a 95-rated End Of Era card.
His absence in EA FC 26 marks the end of an era of a reliable, high-quality defender who could anchor a squad and provide special card potential.
EA FC 26 promises exciting gameplay and new features, but the absence of these iconic players will be felt across Ultimate Team.
From Neymar’s flair to Hummels’ defensive reliability, each player has left a lasting mark on the series.
As new talent emerges, Ultimate Team players will need to adjust their line-ups and tactics, discovering the next generation of in-game stars.
These seven departures close significant chapters in EA FC history, leaving a mix of nostalgia and anticipation for what comes next.
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