The EA FC 26 Ultimate Team cycle is set for a transformative change with the introduction of the Ratings Reload promo. According to credible community insiders, this event will land during the winter period, delivering permanent upgrades to a carefully selected group of players who have far exceeded their original stats. Unlike temporary performance-based cards, these changes will directly adjust the base versions for the remainder of the year, influencing everything from market valuations to Squad Building Challenge requirements. For many, this could be the perfect moment to stock up on valuable assets, especially in anticipation of rising demand for FC 26 Coins to support big squad overhauls.

The Ratings Reload concept aims to align the in-game player database with current real-world football performances. Player ratings are typically fixed at the start of the cycle, derived from last season’s output. However, football’s unpredictable nature often produces phenomena—young talents emerge, veterans reinvent themselves, and renowned stars elevate their game. This promo acknowledges those changes by implementing sweeping enhancements that go beyond small rating bumps.

Expected adjustments include significant Overall Rating (OVR) increases, noticeable upgrades to Skill Moves and Weak Foot ratings for technically improving players, addition or changes to PlayStyles and even premium PlayStyles+ for standout traits, and positional reclassification for those making notable career shifts. These changes will make previously overlooked gold cards substantially viable in competitive play.

The market dynamics will shift as upgraded versions replace the old base cards in packs, affecting card rarity and availability. This could renew interest in players who were once common fodder, especially in competitive squads and themed SBCs. The ripple effect will not only be felt in high-rated upgrades but also in how managers plan squad compositions around new chemistry links and attribute boosts.

Leaked Player Upgrades: Predictions

Multiple leaks hint at several high-profile names slated for upgrades. While official lists are still pending, community speculation revolves around breakout performers and consistent stars.

• Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona): Projected to climb from an OVR 78 to 85, with boosts in Pace, Dribbling, and Shooting, plus a jump from 4-star to 5-star Skill Moves and a ‘Technical’ PlayStyles+ addition.
• Cole Palmer (Chelsea): Expected rise from OVR 84 to 87, key improvements in Passing, Shooting, and Composure, with ‘Dead Ball’ and ‘Incisive Pass’ traits included.
• Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP): Projected upgrade from OVR 83 to 86, enhancing Pace, Shooting, and Physicality, adding ‘Rapid+’ and raising Weak Foot to 4-star.
• Pascal Groß (Brighton & Hove Albion): Potential move up from OVR 82 to 85 with significant upgrades in Passing and Vision plus unique PlayStyles.
• Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen): Expected leap from OVR 85 to 87, focusing on Defending and Passing, alongside a 4-star Weak Foot increase.

Projected Ratings Reload Summary

Market Implications and Strategic Outlook

With base cards being removed from packs and replaced by upgraded versions, rarity and market prices will fluctuate sharply. Players receiving upgrades may experience rapid price surges, particularly if they are meta options or essential for high-demand SBCs. Conversely, similar-position players not receiving upgrades might see reduced demand as managers redirect resources. This opens opportunities for investors to anticipate changes and trade strategically, but it also raises the stakes—incorrect predictions can lead to losses. As the Ratings Reload draws closer, balancing risk and reward will be crucial, and many savvy managers are already preparing their clubs with targeted acquisitions, stockpiling assets, and making liquidity plans, often funded through smart purchases of cheap FC 26 Coins.