In EA FC 25’s Ultimate Team (UT) mode, building a competitive squad is all about finding the right players at the right price. While many gamers focus on securing top-tier players with 90+ ratings, there’s great value to be found in mid-tier players who are rated between 84 and 88. These players can fill important gaps in your squad without breaking the bank, making them perfect for those working with a tighter budget.
Whether you’re trying to complete Squad Building Challenges (SBCs), improve your squad depth, or simply build a solid and well-rounded team, these cheap 84, 85, 86, 87, and 88-rated players will help you do it without overspending. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best budget-friendly options in each rating category and explain why they’re worth considering.
Why Are 84 to 88-Rated Players Important in Ultimate Team?
In EA FC 25 Ultimate Team, players rated between 84 and 88 are often critical for several reasons:
- SBCs: Squad Building Challenges frequently require high-rated players to meet specific rating thresholds. Using budget-friendly 84-88 rated players helps you complete these challenges without using up your more valuable assets.
- Chemistry Links: These players can help you maintain good chemistry in your squad, particularly when paired with higher-rated or specific nationality players.
- Squad Depth: As the game progresses, you’ll need to rotate your team or improve your bench. Cheap, mid-rated players are excellent for filling out these positions, especially if they offer key stats that align with your team’s style.
Best Cheap 84-Rated Players in EA FC 25
1. Francesco Acerbi | Italy | Lombardia FC | Overall Rating: 84
Acerbi is a solid center-back with excellent defensive awareness (85) and strength. He’s perfect for stabilizing your backline, especially when you need a dependable Italian defender.
Why He’s Cheap:
Francesco Acerbi plays for Lombardia FC (a generic name for clubs in certain leagues due to licensing issues) and is somewhat overlooked because he’s not from one of the world’s most popular leagues like the Premier League or La Liga. Additionally, while he’s a reliable center-back, his pace (61) is not ideal for many players, who often prioritize fast defenders.
Key Stats:
Acerbi shines in his defensive stats, boasting 85 defensive awareness and 83 standing tackle, making him an excellent defender for keeping your backline organized. His 84 strength and 84 aggression make him a physical presence on the pitch, capable of holding his own against most attackers. While his low pace limits his usefulness against fast forwards, if you play a more traditional, defensive style, Acerbi can be a rock in your defense at a low price.
2. Manuel Akanji | Switzerland | Manchester City | Overall Rating: 84
Akanji is a versatile defender with a great combination of pace (79) and defensive attributes, making him ideal for playing out from the back. His 84-rated overall provides value for any squad looking to shore up their defense.
Why He’s Cheap:
Despite playing for Manchester City, one of the top clubs in the Premier League, Akanji’s price remains lower because of the abundance of highly-rated center-backs in the game, which pushes his value down. Additionally, while Akanji is a great defender, other Premier League defenders like Virgil van Dijk or Ruben Dias tend to overshadow him.
Key Stats:
Manuel Akanji is a well-rounded defender with 84 standing tackle and 85 defensive awareness. What sets him apart from other cheap defenders is his 79 pace, which allows him to keep up with fast attackers—an essential quality in competitive Ultimate Team matches. Akanji also has 82 strength and decent ball-playing abilities, with 77 passing, making him an ideal choice for players who like to play out from the back.
3. Nathan Aké | Holland | Manchester City | Overall Rating: 84
Aké is known for his physicality and agility, providing strong defensive stats and enough pace to keep up with faster forwards. His ability to play as both a center-back and left-back gives your squad tactical flexibility.
Why He’s Cheap:
Nathan Aké, another Manchester City defender, remains affordable due to his versatility. While he is a solid center-back or left-back, he doesn’t have elite pace or dribbling stats, which diminishes his market value compared to more specialized defenders. His price is also kept lower due to the availability of other high-rated Manchester City players who are more highly sought after.
Key Stats:
Aké’s 76 pace makes him a solid choice in defense, able to keep up with most forwards. His 84 defensive awareness and 82 standing tackle make him reliable for cutting out attacks, while his 81 jumping and 82 heading accuracy ensure he can dominate aerial duels. Additionally, his versatility to play both as a center-back and left-back offers tactical flexibility, making him a valuable asset for any squad without a huge price tag.
Best Cheap 85-Rated Players in EA FC 25
1. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia | Georgia | SSC Napoli | Overall Rating: 85
Kvaratskhelia is a creative and dynamic winger known for his excellent dribbling skills and agility. His ability to beat defenders with his 88 dribbling and 84 pace makes him a strong attacking option, especially for players who value flair on the wings. Despite his talent, he remains affordable in EA FC 25 due to his league and competition from other wingers in higher-rated leagues.
Why He’s Cheap:
Kvaratskhelia plays for SSC Napoli in Serie A, a league that often doesn’t attract as much attention as the Premier League or La Liga. Despite his excellent performances in real life, his relatively low name recognition and competition with other wingers in Ultimate Team keep his price down. His physical stats are decent but not elite, which may deter players who prioritize attributes like pace or shooting.
Key Stats:
Kvaratskhelia stands out for his 88 dribbling and 86 agility, making him an outstanding winger for those who enjoy taking on defenders. His 84 pace allows him to stretch defenses, and his 82 crossing makes him a valuable asset when delivering balls into the box. While his 78 shooting might not be top-tier, he’s still an excellent winger for players who prioritize dribbling and creativity over raw pace.
2. David Alaba | Austria | Real Madrid | Overall Rating: 85
Alaba is one of the most versatile defenders in the game, capable of playing as both a center-back and left-back. His 83 passing and 82 pace make him an ideal ball-playing defender, especially for teams looking to build attacks from the back. Despite playing for Real Madrid, his market value remains lower due to competition from other, faster defenders.
Why He’s Cheap:
Despite playing for Real Madrid, one of the world’s most prestigious clubs, Alaba is surprisingly affordable. His lower price is mainly due to the fact that he’s not the fastest defender compared to other options in the game, and speed is often a priority for many Ultimate Team players. Additionally, competition from other elite center-backs in La Liga keeps his price lower.
Key Stats:
Alaba offers a versatile range of abilities. His 82 defending and 84 ball control make him a solid option at center-back or left-back, depending on your squad’s needs. His 82 pace is not as fast as top-tier defenders but is still respectable for his role. What makes Alaba special is his ability to pass and start attacks from the back, with 83 passing and 83 dribbling, making him an ideal ball-playing defender.
3. Ronald Araujo | Uruguay | FC Barcelona | Overall Rating: 85
Araujo is a powerful and physically dominant center-back known for his 89 strength and aerial ability. With 86 defensive awareness and 87 jumping, he’s excellent at breaking up attacks and dominating in the air. His lower price is due to competition from other elite FC Barcelona defenders, but he’s a budget-friendly option for strong defensive coverage.
Why He’s Cheap:
Araujo’s low market value stems from his overshadowing by higher-rated FC Barcelona teammates like Jules Koundé. While he has excellent defensive stats, his relatively low passing and dribbling abilities compared to more modern center-backs make him a cheaper alternative. His pace is decent but not game-changing, which also impacts his price.
Key Stats:
Araujo’s biggest strength is his physical presence, with 89 strength and 86 defensive awareness. He is a rock at the back and is particularly effective at winning aerial duels, thanks to his 85 heading accuracy and 87 jumping. His 79 pace is solid for a center-back, allowing him to keep up with most forwards. If you need a physical, no-nonsense defender, Araujo is a great budget option.
4. Ona Batlle | Spain | FC Barcelona | Overall Rating: 85
Batlle is an exciting right-back known for her pace and versatility. With 87 pace and 84 dribbling, she’s great at joining the attack while also being defensively solid with 84 interceptions. Her value remains affordable due to the general lower demand for full-backs, but she’s a fantastic choice for those needing a quick, all-round full-back in their squad.
Why She’s Cheap:
Ona Batlle is an emerging talent in women’s football, but her relatively lower market value in Ultimate Team can be attributed to the general lower demand for full-backs compared to center-backs or forwards. Additionally, her position as a right-back, a spot that many players tend to overlook in favor of attackers or center-backs, keeps her price affordable.
Key Stats:
Batlle is one of the best value full-backs in the game, with 87 pace making her an asset on both sides of the pitch. Her 84 dribbling and 82 passing make her excellent in possession, allowing her to contribute effectively to attacks. Defensively, she’s solid with 84 interceptions and 82 standing tackle, making her a great all-rounder at right-back. Her combination of speed, dribbling, and defensive acumen makes her a bargain for any squad needing a versatile full-back.
Best Cheap 86-Rated Players in EA FC 25
1. Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | Al Nassr | Overall Rating: 86
Ronaldo may not be at his peak, but he still offers elite finishing with 90 finishing and 89 heading accuracy, making him lethal in the box. His pace has dropped to 77, but his ability to score from crosses and his strength on the ball make him an excellent target man for budget squads.
Why He’s Cheap:
Gabriel plays for Arsenal, one of the Premier League’s top clubs, but his 84-rated card is still cheap because of the abundance of higher-rated defenders in the game. Although Gabriel has solid defensive stats, his price remains low because he lacks the blistering pace that many Ultimate Team players seek in center-backs.
Key Stats:
Gabriel is a physically strong defender, with 87 strength and 85 defensive awareness making him a reliable presence at the back. His 84 standing tackle and 82 jumping also make him effective in one-on-one situations and aerial duels. However, his 74 pace may deter some players, but for those who prefer physicality and defensive positioning over speed, Gabriel is a bargain.
2. Gabriel | Brazil | Arsenal | Overall Rating: 86
Gabriel is a strong and reliable center-back with 87 strength and 85 defensive awareness. Though his 74 pace may not stand out, his ability to win physical battles and dominate in aerial duels makes him a solid defensive option for players who focus on positioning and power.
Why He’s Cheap:
Gabriel plays for Arsenal, one of the Premier League’s top clubs, but his 84-rated card is still cheap because of the abundance of higher-rated defenders in the game. Although Gabriel has solid defensive stats, his price remains low because he lacks the blistering pace that many Ultimate Team players seek in center-backs.
Key Stats:
Gabriel is a physically strong defender, with 87 strength and 85 defensive awareness making him a reliable presence at the back. His 84 standing tackle and 82 jumping also make him effective in one-on-one situations and aerial duels. However, his 74 pace may deter some players, but for those who prefer physicality and defensive positioning over speed, Gabriel is a bargain.
3. Granit Xhaka | Switzerland | Bayer Leverkusen | Overall Rating: 86
Xhaka is a powerful defensive midfielder known for his long passing (86 long passing) and shot power (86 shot power). Though his 61 pace is a drawback, his strong defensive stats and ability to control the midfield make him a key player for those who prioritize passing and strength over speed.
Why He’s Cheap:
Xhaka’s move to Bayer Leverkusen and his role as a defensive midfielder make him less popular in Ultimate Team, where most players seek faster, more attacking midfielders. Xhaka’s lack of pace (61 pace) makes him cheaper in the market, even though his other stats are quite impressive for a central midfielder.
Key Stats:
Xhaka excels in passing and physicality, with 86 long passing and 84 vision, making him perfect for deep-lying playmaker roles. His 86 shot power also makes him a threat from distance, while his 84 interceptions and 84 aggression make him solid defensively. Despite his slower speed, Xhaka’s ability to control the midfield through accurate passing and strong defensive contributions makes him a valuable and affordable option.
4. Khadija Shaw | Jamaica | Manchester City | Overall Rating: 86
Shaw is a fast and physical forward, boasting 88 strength and 87 finishing. Her 84 sprint speed and 85 positioning make her an outstanding striker for budget squads, offering both pace and power to break down defenses and finish scoring chances.
Why She’s Cheap:
Khadija Shaw is an emerging talent in women’s football, but her card remains affordable due to the lower general demand for women players in Ultimate Team compared to their male counterparts. Additionally, her lower rating compared to some of the game’s top strikers keeps her price down, making her a bargain for those looking for a strong forward option.
Key Stats:
Shaw is a powerhouse forward with 88 strength and 87 finishing, making her a force inside the box. Her 84 sprint speed allows her to outpace defenders, while her 85 positioning ensures she’s always in the right place at the right time to score. Shaw’s combination of physicality, pace, and finishing makes her one of the best budget options for those looking to add a reliable goal scorer to their squad.
Best Cheap 87-Rated Players in EA FC 25
1. William Saliba | France | Arsenal | Overall Rating: 87
Saliba is a powerful and reliable center-back with 88 defending and 87 standing tackle, making him a strong defensive presence. His 79 pace and 84 strength allow him to compete with fast and physical attackers, providing a well-rounded option for any defense.
Why He’s Cheap:
Despite being one of the best young defenders in the Premier League, Saliba’s price remains affordable due to the competition in the 87-rated defender category. Players often opt for higher-rated defenders or those with slightly better stats in key areas like pace.
Key Stats:
Saliba is an exceptional center-back, known for his 88 defending and 87 standing tackle, which make him a force at the back. His 79 pace is solid for a defender, allowing him to keep up with fast attackers, while his 84 strength ensures he can physically dominate opposing forwards. If you’re looking for a dependable defender on a budget, Saliba is a top pick.
2. Victor Osimhen | Nigeria | Galatasaray | Overall Rating: 87
Osimhen is a lethal striker, boasting 91 pace and 90 finishing. His 88 heading accuracy and 85 jumping make him a significant aerial threat, while his positioning (88 positioning) ensures he’s always in the right spot to score. His speed and finishing make him a dangerous forward for any squad.
Why He’s Cheap:
Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray in this game edition keeps his price lower compared to strikers in more high-profile European leagues like the Premier League or La Liga. Players often prioritize strikers from bigger leagues, which drives his price down despite his impressive stats.
Key Stats:
Osimhen is a fast and powerful striker with 91 pace and 90 finishing, making him a lethal forward in front of goal. His 88 positioning ensures he’s always in the right place to score, while his 85 jumping and 88 heading accuracy make him a threat in the air. He’s a great budget option for those looking for a pacey striker who can finish with precision.
3. Jamal Musiala | Germany | FC Bayern München | Overall Rating: 87
Musiala excels as a creative midfielder with 91 dribbling and 87 agility, allowing him to navigate through tight defenses. His 84 passing and 83 shooting enable him to both create and finish chances, making him an excellent playmaker in the midfield.
Why He’s Cheap:
Musiala is affordable due to his competition with other high-rated attacking midfielders and forwards, especially from more well-known players like Kevin De Bruyne or Neymar. His lower physical stats also make some players hesitant to use him in physical matchups.
Key Stats:
Musiala shines with 91 dribbling and 87 agility, making him one of the most creative and skillful midfielders in the game. His 84 passing and 83 shooting allow him to create chances and score from distance. For players looking for a technical playmaker who excels in tight spaces, Musiala is an excellent choice.
4. Bukayo Saka | England | Arsenal | Overall Rating: 87
Saka is an explosive winger with 90 pace and 90 dribbling, giving him the ability to beat defenders on the flanks. His 84 passing allows him to deliver precise crosses, while his 85 positioning helps him find space in the attack. Saka’s combination of speed and skill makes him a great wide player for any Ultimate Team.
Why He’s Cheap:
Saka remains affordable because, despite his immense talent, players often prefer attackers with better finishing or physical stats. His lower shooting stats compared to other wingers also contribute to his lower price.
Key Stats:
Saka’s 90 pace and 90 dribbling make him an explosive winger capable of beating defenders with ease. His 84 passing ensures he can deliver accurate crosses and through balls, while his 85 positioning helps him find spaces in the final third. If you need a pacey, skillful winger for a reasonable price, Saka is a fantastic option.
Best Cheap 88-Rated Players in EA FC 25
1. Phil Foden | England | Manchester City | Overall Rating: 88
Foden is a dynamic playmaker with 90 dribbling and 89 agility, making him a perfect choice for creating chances in tight spaces. His 84 passing and 82 shooting allow him to contribute both in playmaking and finishing, while his 85 positioning ensures he’s always involved in attacking plays.
Why He’s Cheap:
Foden’s price is kept affordable due to his competition with other high-rated attacking midfielders and wingers in Ultimate Team. Players often prioritize more physically imposing or faster options, which makes Foden cheaper despite his impressive skills.
Key Stats:
Foden’s greatest strengths are his 90 dribbling and 89 agility, making him a superb playmaker in tight spaces. His 84 passing and 82 shooting allow him to create and finish chances, while his 85 positioning ensures he’s always involved in attacking plays. Foden is an excellent choice for players seeking a creative midfielder at a reasonable price.
2. Marie Katoto | France | Paris SG | Overall Rating: 88
Katoto is a powerful and fast striker with 90 finishing and 88 sprint speed, making her a constant goal-scoring threat. Her 87 strength helps her hold off defenders, and her 85 positioning ensures she’s always in the right spot to score, making her an excellent choice for budget-conscious players looking for a reliable forward.
Why She’s Cheap:
Katoto remains affordable because she competes with more well-known forwards in the men’s game, despite her impressive stats in the women’s section. Her lower profile compared to some male counterparts keeps her price down.
Key Stats:
Katoto is a clinical forward with 90 finishing and 88 sprint speed, making her a constant threat to defenders. Her 87 strength allows her to hold off defenders, while her 85 positioning helps her find the right spaces to exploit in the attack. For players looking for a powerful and fast striker, Katoto is an excellent budget option.
3. Lionel Messi | Argentina | Inter Miami CF | Overall Rating: 88
Even with a lower pace of 75, Messi remains a creative genius with 92 dribbling, 90 ball control, and 89 passing. His 84 shooting ensures he’s still lethal in front of goal, making him a strong choice for players who value technical play and creativity over speed.
Why He’s Cheap:
Messi’s move to Inter Miami in the MLS has lowered his market value compared to his time in European leagues. While still an incredible player, his lower league visibility and declining pace make him cheaper than other 88-rated stars.
Key Stats:
Messi shines with 92 dribbling, 90 ball control, and 89 passing, making him one of the most creative and technically gifted players in the game. His 84 shooting ensures he can score from anywhere on the pitch, despite his 75 pace not being as high as in his peak years. Messi remains a magician with the ball, especially for players who value creativity over speed.
4. Debinha | Brazil | KC Current | Overall Rating: 88
Debinha is a nimble and creative forward with 91 dribbling and 88 agility, excelling in attacking roles. Her 85 finishing and 84 passing allow her to both score and set up goals, making her a versatile option for players seeking a fast and technical attacker at a bargain price.
Why She’s Cheap:
Debinha is affordable due to the generally lower demand for women players in Ultimate Team compared to men, despite her high rating and skillset. This makes her an under-the-radar pick for savvy players.
Key Stats:
Debinha excels with 91 dribbling and 88 agility, making her one of the most nimble and technical players in the game. Her 85 finishing and 84 passing allow her to both score and create chances, making her versatile in attacking roles. For players looking for a creative, fast, and affordable attacker, Debinha is a fantastic option.
FAQs About Cheap 84-88 Rated Players in EA FC 25 Ultimate Team
Ans. Lionel Messi remains the highest-rated Argentinian player in EA FC 25 with a rating of 90.
Ans. Lautaro Martínez is a great option for career mode, given his age and potential for growth.
Ans. Emiliano Martínez is the best Argentinian goalkeeper with a rating of 84.
Ans. Paulo Dybala and Ángel Correa are two of the most versatile players, able to play in multiple attacking positions.
Ans. Despite his age, Messi remains highly effective due to his excellent dribbling, passing, and finishing abilities.
Conclusion…
Building a strong and affordable squad in EA FC 25 Ultimate Team doesn’t require a fortune. By focusing on cheap 84-88 rated players, you can fill important gaps in your squad, complete SBCs, and even stay competitive in online matches. Players like Yann Sommer, Marco Verratti, and Thomas Müller offer incredible value for their price and can be instrumental in helping you succeed in Ultimate Team. Whether you’re crafting your squad for FUT Champions or simply want to upgrade your team without spending all your FUT coins, these budget-friendly players are worth considering.
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