Defenders are the backbone of any successful team, especially in EA Sports FC 25, where building a solid backline is crucial for long-term success in Career Mode. Young defenders, in particular, offer a great blend of current talent and high potential, making them valuable assets for teams looking to invest in the future. The following list highlights 10 of the best young defenders in EA Sports FC 25, each with the skills, potential, and versatility to become a mainstay in any Career Mode defense.
1. Antonio Silva (SL Benfica)
- Born: October 30, 2003
- Age: 21
- Overall Rating: 79
- Potential: 87
- Nationality: Portugal
- Team: SL Benfica
Antonio Silva is a strong and composed center-back from Portugal, currently playing for SL Benfica. With an overall rating of 79 and a high potential of 87, Silva brings a mix of defensive awareness and ball-playing ability, which are essential for modern defenders. He reads the game well, intercepts passes effectively, and isn’t afraid to get physical when necessary. Silva is a great investment for any Career Mode player looking to add a young yet reliable defender to their backline.
2. Alejandro Baldé (FC Barcelona)
- Born: October 18, 2003
- Age: 21
- Overall Rating: 81
- Potential: 89
- Nationality: Spain
- Team: FC Barcelona
Alejandro Baldé has quickly risen as one of the top young full-backs in the game. Playing as a left-back for Barcelona, Baldé boasts excellent pace, dribbling, and crossing ability, making him a potent offensive weapon. With a potential rating of 89, he’s one of the most promising defenders in FC 25. His agility and positioning make him ideal for teams that rely on dynamic wing-backs, giving Career Mode managers a versatile and skilled full-back option.
3. Rico Mark Lewis (Manchester City)
- Born: November 21, 2004
- Age: 19
- Overall Rating: 76
- Potential: 85
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Team: Manchester City
As one of Manchester City’s brightest young talents, Rico Lewis has shown significant promise as a defender. With an overall rating of 76 and a potential of 85, Lewis combines speed, technical ability, and defensive awareness, making him a versatile player. Primarily a right-back, he can also be deployed in midfield, reflecting his adaptability and high footballing IQ. For Career Mode managers looking to develop a versatile young defender, Lewis is a strong choice.
4. William Saliba (Arsenal F.C.)
- Born: March 24, 2001
- Age: 23
- Overall Rating: 87
- Potential: 89
- Nationality: France
- Team: Arsenal F.C.
William Saliba has established himself as one of the best young center-backs, both in real life and in EA Sports FC 25. His 87 overall rating, combined with a potential of 89, makes him a near-complete defender. Saliba’s strength, positioning, and tackling abilities allow him to command the defense with confidence. For Career Mode managers aiming to solidify their defense with a world-class talent, Saliba is a must-have player who can anchor any backline for seasons to come.
5. Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP)
- Born: August 25, 2001
- Age: 23
- Overall Rating: 80
- Potential: 87
- Nationality: Portugal
- Team: Sporting CP
Another Portuguese talent, Gonçalo Inácio is a promising center-back with a strong potential of 87. Inácio excels at reading the game and possesses great passing skills for a defender. He is well-suited to teams that play out from the back and prioritize ball control. His calmness under pressure and his composure on the ball make him an ideal choice for any Career Mode squad looking for a technically gifted center-back.
6. Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United F.C.)
- Born: August 12, 1999
- Age: 25
- Overall Rating: 84
- Potential: 87
- Nationality: Netherlands
- Team: Manchester United F.C.
Matthijs de Ligt has been a standout defender since his teenage years, and at 25, he’s in his prime with plenty of room to grow. With an overall rating of 84 and a potential of 87, de Ligt brings a wealth of experience to Career Mode teams. Known for his strength, aerial ability, and leadership, he can be the defensive anchor that teams need. De Ligt is perfect for players looking to build a sturdy and reliable defense around a seasoned yet youthful leader.
7. Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton F.C.)
- Born: June 27, 2002
- Age: 22
- Overall Rating: 79
- Potential: 86
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Team: Everton F.C.
Jarrad Branthwaite has become a hidden gem for Everton fans and EA Sports FC 25 players alike. With an overall rating of 79 and a potential of 86, Branthwaite has the defensive qualities to develop into a top-tier center-back. His height, tackling, and defensive awareness make him a dominant presence in the backline. He’s an excellent option for Career Mode managers looking for a promising defender who can grow into a reliable starter over time.
8. Malo Gusto (Chelsea F.C.)
- Born: May 19, 2003
- Age: 21
- Overall Rating: 80
- Potential: 86
- Nationality: France
- Team: Chelsea F.C.
Malo Gusto is a dynamic right-back known for his speed, dribbling, and crossing. With an overall rating of 80 and a potential of 86, Gusto offers both defensive stability and attacking support. He is an ideal signing for Career Mode managers who want a full-back capable of bombing forward and contributing to attacks. His high work rate makes him an asset in pressing systems, and his potential to grow makes him a valuable investment.
9. Tino Livramento (Newcastle United F.C.)
- Born: November 12, 2002
- Age: 21
- Overall Rating: 78
- Potential: 85
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Team: Newcastle United F.C.
Tino Livramento is a rising star in Newcastle’s defense, known for his defensive discipline and agility. With a potential of 85, Livramento has the ability to become a first-choice right-back in Career Mode. His pace and tenacity make him effective in one-on-one situations, while his versatility allows him to play both defensively and offensively. Livramento is a valuable asset for managers looking for a dependable young full-back with high potential.
10. Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City F.C.)
- Born: January 23, 2002
- Age: 22
- Overall Rating: 83
- Potential: 87
- Nationality: Croatia
- Team: Manchester City F.C.
Joško Gvardiol is among the most sought-after young defenders in European football. With an overall rating of 83 and a potential of 87, Gvardiol combines physicality, intelligence, and technical skill, making him an elite center-back. His ability to play as a left-back adds to his versatility, allowing Career Mode managers to use him in different defensive setups. Gvardiol is a wise choice for any Career Mode squad aiming for long-term defensive stability and leadership at the back.
Building a Defense Around Young Talent in EA Sports FC 25
Investing in young defenders like those listed above is essential for a successful Career Mode in EA Sports FC 25. These players provide a blend of immediate impact and long-term growth potential, ensuring your backline remains strong for multiple seasons.
For best results, combine defenders with complementary attributes. For example, pair the physicality of Joško Gvardiol with the agility of Alejandro Baldé to create a well-rounded defense. Prioritize training sessions that enhance each player’s key strengths, such as improving tackling, positioning, and passing for your center-backs, while focusing on crossing and sprint speed for your full-backs.
With these 10 young defenders, you’re not just building a defense—you’re creating a foundation for championship-winning teams.
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