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With many key changes in EA Sports FC 26’s Career Mode, now is the perfect time to dive in and build your team. You can manage any club worldwide, whether you’re trying to rebuild a struggling team like Manchester United or leading a top club such as Liverpool FC. A great strategy is to add some of the best young midfielders to your roster.
If you want to invest in future stars before their transfer fees skyrocket past $100 million, these players are top picks for your team’s growth.
All midfielders listed were 21 or younger at the start of the FC 26 season.
Andrey Santos
- Overall: 80
- Age: 21
- Potential: 87
- Team: Chelsea
Andrey Santos is an excellent young midfielder for any squad. His 80 overall rating makes him suitable as a starter or at least a bench player in most top teams. Santos is a versatile, well-rounded player who can contribute both offensively and defensively now and in the future. While he might only be a starter if your team is weaker in midfield, investing time in developing him could turn him into one of the best in his position. He may not reach Jude Bellingham’s global superstar level, but Santos can be a crucial driving force in your team or lead a mid-table club to European success as a key playmaker.
Franco Mastantuono
- Overall: 77
- Age: 18
- Potential: 88
- Team: Real Madrid
Most clubs won’t be able to sign Mastantuono immediately, as Real Madrid has already lured this promising young midfielder. At just 18, he can suit mid-tier teams or serve as a star for smaller clubs. If you want to include him in your first team quickly, it might be better to loan him out so he can develop elsewhere and reach his full potential.
Jauregizar
- Overall: 78
- Age: 21
- Potential: 88
- Team: Athletic Bilbao
If signing Santos feels too costly, Jauregizar is a smart alternative. Playing for Athletic Bilbao, his transfer fee will likely be lower, making him a good option for budget-conscious teams. He’s a solid all-around player with a strong four-star weak foot, enabling accurate passes and reliable ball control. Focus on improving his passing and dribbling to unlock his full potential. He offers great versatility and could develop into a cornerstone of your team if nurtured well.
Rodrigo Mora
- Overall: 76
- Age: 18
- Potential: 89
- Team: Porto
Rodrigo Mora is one of the most promising young midfielders, already making waves at FC Porto. His four-star skill moves and weak foot make him a creative threat. He needs further development to reach his ceiling, but if you can give him enough playing time, he could grow into a future star. Sending him on loan might be beneficial if you’re with a top team like Real Madrid, but keeping him and nurturing his talent can pay off big.
Gavi
- Overall: 83
- Age: 21
- Potential: 89
- Team: Barcelona
Gavi is one of the top young midfielders in FC 26 and can fit into nearly any team worldwide. His 83 overall rating reflects a player with impressive all-around skills, backed by a high attribute count. Although he is still developing, Gavi’s balance of talent and potential makes him a versatile and valuable player.
Nico Paz
- Overall: 79
- Age: 21
- Potential: 89
- Team: Como
Although a bit older for a ‘next great hope,’ Nico Paz still offers considerable upside. Known for his excellent dribbling and ball control—both rated at 85—he needs game time to reach his potential. Placing him in your starting lineup or loaning him out early could help accelerate his growth.
Kenan Yildiz
- Overall: 79
- Age: 20
- Potential: 89
- Team: Juventus
Yildiz, a promising Turkish star, combines pace and dribbling well. His current rating is solid for his age, but further improvements in passing and decision-making can make him a dangerous attacking midfielder. He’s a player to watch for the future.
Joao Neves
- Overall: 85
- Age: 20
- Potential: 90
- Team: PSG
At just 20, Neves balances current ability with exceptional future potential. His starting rating of 85 and a ceiling of 90 make him an ideal building block for a future Champions League team. He excels at both dribbling and winning balls back, making him a vital player for any squad aiming for success now and later.
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