FC 26 Barcelona's Ultimate Team Past & Present
Welcome back to our weekly “Past & Present” series, where we explore the unique Ultimate Team journeys of the world’s biggest stars. This week, we’re focusing on a club renowned for its legendary talent: FC Barcelona.
This squad is a fascinating mix of established global icons and the next generation of La Masia superstars. We’re comparing their official FC 26 Ultimate Team cards to their very first appearances in the game, showcasing some truly incredible evolutions.
The Attack:
- Now (FC 26): 88 ST
- Then (FIFA 10): 71 ST
A true Ultimate Team veteran. Robert Lewandowski made his debut way back in FIFA 10 as a 71-rated silver for Lech Poznań. Over a decade later, he stands as one of the greatest strikers in history. His Past & Present story is one of sustained excellence, reflected in his elite 88-rated card.
- Now (FC 26): 89 LM
- Then (FIFA 18): 76 LM
Raphinha’s FUT journey began with a 76-rated gold card at Vitória S.C. in FIFA 18. After lighting up Portugal, France, and the Premier League, he’s now a creative force for Barcelona, earning a superb +13 overall increase to an 89-rated card in FC 26.
- Now (FC 26): 89 RM
- Then (FC 24 ): 81 RW
Lamine Yamal’s rise is nothing short of historic. After breaking records with his debut, his first high-potential card in Ultimate Team was a sign of things to come. In FC 26, he has exploded to an incredible 89-rated card, cementing his status as one of the most exciting wonderkids in world football.
The Midfield:
- Now (FC 26): 85 CAM
- Then (FIFA 19): 75 LM
A product of La Masia, Dani Olmo honed his craft at Dinamo Zagreb, where he earned his 75-rated FUT debut. Now a star for Barca and the Spanish national team, his official FC 26 rating of 85 showcases his technical brilliance and creative prowess.
- Now (FC 26): 89 CM
- Then (FIFA 20): 72 LM
Pedri debuted in FIFA 20 as a 72-rated silver for Las Palmas. In just a few seasons, he won the Golden Boy award and became the creative heart of Barcelona’s midfield. His +17 overall rating jump in his Past & Present journey is a clear indicator of his world-class talent.
- Now (FC 26): 87 CM
- Then (FIFA 16): 63 CM
This is a colossal glow-up. Frenkie de Jong started his FUT journey as a 63-rated bronze for Ajax in FIFA 16. His evolution through Ajax to becoming a cornerstone at Barcelona is reflected in a massive +24 overall rating increase, one of the most impressive Past & Present transformations in the game.
The Defence & Goalkeeper:
- Now (FC 26): 83 LB
- Then (FIFA 22): 66 LB
Another La Masia gem, Balde’s first card was a 66-rated Silver in FIFA 22. His electrifying pace and attacking drive have seen him lock down the left-back spot, earning him a huge +17 upgrade to a fearsome 83-rated card in FC 26.
- Now (FC 26): 83 CB
- Then (FIFA 21): 67 CB
Araújo debuted as a 67-rated silver, but his combination of speed, strength, and defensive ability quickly saw him become a fan favorite. His +16 overall rating increase reflects his growth into one of La Liga’s most commanding central defenders.
- Now (FC 26): 82 CB
- Then (FC 24 ): 72 CB
Like Yamal, Cubarsí’s emergence has been breathtaking. After a stunning debut season, his first FUT card quickly became obsolete. His official FC 26 rating of 82 is a testament to his incredible composure and technical skill, marking a rapid +10 upgrade.
- Now (FC 26): 87 CB
- Then (FIFA 19): 73 CB
Koundé started as a 73-rated silver at Bordeaux. His elite defensive skills and versatility saw him rise through Sevilla to Barcelona, becoming one of the most sought-after defenders in the world and earning a +14 rating boost.
- Now (FC 26): 86 GK
- Then (FIFA 11): 63 GK
Ter Stegen’s first Ultimate Team card was a 63-rated Bronze for Borussia Mönchengladbach. Over a decade later, he is an undisputed world-class goalkeeper. His Past & Present journey highlights remarkable consistency and development at the highest level.
The Final Verdict
This Barcelona Past & Present squad beautifully illustrates the club’s philosophy of blending seasoned world-beaters with fearless young talent from its famed academy. The evolution from their first FUT cards to their official FC 26 ratings is a story of incredible growth and potential realized.
