EA Sports announces the debut of Icon players: Iniesta, Marcelo, and additional legendary figures rejoin the roster in FIFA 26
EA Sports FC 26 Introduces Icon-Packed Roster
EA Sports has announced the addition of a new class of Icons to Ultimate Team in their upcoming release, EA Sports FC 26. This exciting lineup consists of 12 legendary players from both men's and women's football, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Alex Morgan, Andres Iniesta, Toni Kroos, Giorgio Chiellini, Sissi, Caroline Seger, Francesco Totti, Oliver Kahn, Bum-kun Cha, Steffi Jones, and Marcelo [1][2][3].
These Icons bring distinct Archetypes inspired by historic players, designed to allow customization of play styles. Each Archetype offers unique characteristics and a new customization experience for developing Pro players, giving users greater control over gameplay and strategies [1][4].
The new Icons in EA FC 26 have traits and stats that reflect their abilities at the peak of their careers. High-rated Icons like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Andres Iniesta (both rated 92) are powerful additions to any Ultimate Team roster, immediately impacting team strength. Even the lower-rated Icons like Sissi and Cha Bum-kun (both 88) are strong starting options [2][3].
Pre-ordering the Ultimate Edition by August 26 grants players one untradeable Icon from this class for early access, incentivizing early purchases and providing competitive advantages [1][2]. Fans will receive a lower-rated version of these Icons when the game is released, with the items being upgraded later in the year.
Notable additions to the Icons roster include AS Roma's Francesco Totti, Germany's Oliver Kahn, and FC Barcelona's legendary midfielder Andres Iniesta, as well as Real Madrid's Marcelo [1][3]. Alex Morgan, previously an active player in EA FC, will receive an Icon version following her retirement [1].
Icons in EA FC 26 represent legends of the sport, with their boosted stats and traits making them highly desirable and overpowered players in Ultimate Team. The addition of superstars like Zlatan, Marcelo, and Iniesta adds excitement to the game. Previously available legends like Ronaldo Nazario, Steven Gerrard, and Thierry Henry will also be part of this feature [1].
Both Alex Morgan and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have expressed excitement about their inclusion as Icons, highlighting the honor of being recognized and the legacy aspect these players bring into the game [1][4]. This new Icons lineup enhances diversity by including both men’s and women’s football legends, adding depth and variety to gameplay choices.
In terms of impact on the game, Icons have different playstyle roles such as Target, Finisher, Creator, Maestro, Defender, Goalkeeper, and Shot Stopper, each offering specialized skill sets meant to enhance competitive gameplay [4]. They enable smoother dribbling, faster passing, increased stamina, and unlimited control in Football Ultimate Team, improving the overall player experience and tactical options [4].
In summary, the new Icons in FC 26 contribute significantly by enriching customization options through Archetypes, improving gameplay mechanics, and providing a mix of high-impact players from football history that influence team building and competitive play.
Players from various European leagues, such as Laliga, will be represented among the new Icon-Packed roster in EA Sports FC 26. Notably, Andres Iniesta, a legend from FC Barcelona, is included.
players from laliga, andres iniesta, ea sports fc 26, icon-packed roster, fc barcelona