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Your options are more diverse than ever in EA Sports FC 26 career mode. You can quickly jump into the current season to mirror real-world action or start fresh at the beginning of a new year to have full control over every decision. No matter when you pick up the game or which league you select, having strong defensive midfielders is essential to controlling play.
Midfield is where matches are often won or lost. Maintaining possession, recycling the ball, and regaining control from opponents are crucial tactics. The best young defensive midfielders (DMs) can elevate your team to a higher level.
Dario Essugo
Overall: 75
Age: 20
Potential: 85
Team: Chelsea
Dario Essugo is a promising young defensive midfielder. His main downside is that he’s often benched at Chelsea because of competition from top-tier players like Moises Caicedo. At 20, a 75 overall isn’t very impressive in the game, but Essugo’s strong potential makes him a good bargain. He can grow alongside a young team aiming to stay in top leagues or move upward through divisions.
Romeo Lavia
Overall: 78
Age: 21
Potential: 85
Team: Chelsea
Slightly older and better than Essugo, Romeo Lavia was acquired by Chelsea during their 2023 summer transfer spree, joining Lavia and Caicedo. Although one year older, Lavia already shows more promise, with a high potential to reach an 85 overall. If you need a dependable starter for a mid-table or better team, Lavia is a top option who could become a star. Keep in mind, he might take a couple of years to reach his full potential.
Zeno Debast
Overall: 78
Age: 21
Potential: 86
Team: Sporting
Zeno Debast is an underrated player if you aren’t familiar with Liga Portugal. Similar in age and potential to Lavia but physically larger at 6’3″ (191 cm), he offers a commanding presence. If you want a tough, physically intimidating player to shut down opponents and protect your defense, Debast is a great choice. Give him a year, and you’ll notice his impact increasing as he establishes himself.
Adam Wharton
Overall: 79
Age: 21
Potential: 86
Team: Crystal Palace
Adam Wharton is considered an early favorite to join Liverpool due to his impressive defensive skills, overall quality, and high ceiling. His four-star weak foot and good passing ability make him one of the most valued young DMs. He can distribute the ball well with both feet and prevent opponents from breaking through in the midfield.
Archie Gray
Overall: 75
Age: 19
Potential: 86
Team: Tottenham
Despite his slim frame, Archie Gray stands out as an excellent project player for a developing team. At just 19, he’s one of the youngest talented defensive midfielders available, with the potential to become an 86-rated player after a few years of growth. Standing 6’2″ (187 cm) and possessing a four-star weak foot, Gray is versatile and promising. He will require about three years to fully develop into a top-tier player.
Carlos Baleba
Overall: 81
Age: 21
Potential: 87
Team: Brighton
If you have a large transfer budget and want an immediate impact, Carlos Baleba might be your best choice. He starts with an 81 overall and has the potential to grow to 87 in two years. Baleba combines youth with proven ability, making him a balanced and reliable choice for clubs wanting stability. His physical presence at 6’2″ (188 cm) and excellent passing make him a versatile and commanding midfielder.
Aleksander Pavlovic
Overall: 79
Age: 21
Potential: 87
Team: Bayern Munich
Pavlovic is near Baleba in potential and profile, with impressive size at 6’2″ (188 cm). While his current overall is just 79, he has massive upside. With time and training, Pavlovic could be your primary defensive option in two to three years. Expect him to reach around 85 or higher by the start of the third year, so directing his development with training is recommended.
Jorthy Mokio
Overall: 70
Age: 17
Potential: 89
Team: Ajax
Jorthy Mokio is a standout young prospect, especially if you’re building for the future. At just 17 years old, he has an incredible potential of 89, which could make him a top defensive midfielder after a few years of growth. Since his starting overall is only 70, expect to spend about three years developing him fully into a regular starter.
Using loan moves to give young players game time is an effective way to accelerate their growth and help them reach their potential faster, especially when your team is already packed with experienced players.
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