Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo: Who is the better player in EA FC 26

By Ambar Jimenez | 2025-09-12 09:24:57

Messi vs. Ronaldo: Who is better in EA FC 26?

The legendary rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continues in EA FC 26. Despite being in the final stages of their careers, both forwards continue to deliver impressive performances for their respective clubs and national teams. The leaked database for the game has given fans a glimpse into how these two icons are rated, and it reveals that both players have received a slight downgrade in the new title.In EA FC 25, Lionel Messi was rated 88 overall, while Cristiano Ronaldo was 86. However, their age has resulted in an even bigger decline in their ratings for EA FC 26.Here is a detailed comparison of their overall ratings and stats in the upcoming game:
ComparisonLionel MessiCristiano Ronaldo
Overall Rating8685
Pace7876
Shooting8588
Passing8576
Dribbling9080
Defending3334
Physicality6476

PlayStyles and In-Game Performance

Their in-game performance in EA FC 26 will be defined by their unique PlayStyles and key attributes, which reflect their real-life strengths.

  • Lionel Messi: The Argentine superstar is equipped with the Tiki Taka+ PlayStyle, which accurately represents his famous pass-and-move style of play.This attribute, combined with his exceptional Passing (85) and Dribbling (90), makes him an ideal playmaker. He will be a great option forplayers who prefer to use quick, intricate passes to break down adefense.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portuguese forward has the Power Shot+ PlayStyle, which highlights his ability to score from long distances with immensepower. His superior Shooting stat (88) and five-star skill moves willmake him a lethal striker, particularly in formations with two forwardswhere he can be paired with a faster, more agile partner to exploit hispositioning and finishing.

Final Verdict

When comparing the two players directly, Lionel Messi is the more overpowered option in EA FC 26. While Cristiano Ronaldo has a higher shooting stat and a more dominantphysical presence, Lionel Messi's superior dribbling and passing makehim a more versatile and influential player on the pitch.

Messi's ability to create chances, navigate tight spaces, and deliver precisepasses makes him a valuable asset in a variety of attacking positions,including right wing, striker, or CAM, as reflected by his in-gameversatility under the new FC IQ system.

Both players have received a significant decrease in their Pace, making them less "meta" for players who rely on speed to outrun defenders. However, their elite-level attributes in other areas ensure they remain viableand effective options for their specific roles, continuing theirlegendary rivalry on the virtual pitch.

Tags: UEFA Champions League, Premier League, Bundesliga, LaLiga, CONMEBOL Libertadores, Women’s Super League, Player Career
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