The wait is almost over! Speculation is at an all-time high as the Team of the Year (TOTY) unveiling approaches. This roster is a calculated projection based on performances, awards, and, of course, the indisputable power of fan voting, even if certain selections may cause controversy. You may anticipate seeing a lot of recognized names from those teams given Real Madrid’s Champions League victory and Spain’s supremacy at the Euros. Let’s get started!
Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez (87 → 94 OVR)
Some might still be wrapping their heads around the idea of an Aston Villa player in a TOTY lineup, but let’s be real—Martínez has earned his spot. His heroics at the World Cup remain fresh in fans’ minds, and with the Premier League bias in voting, his path to inclusion is clear. He’s been a rock between the posts, pulling off match-winning saves and keeping Villa competitive. Expect the Argentine shot-stopper to shine in this year’s selection.
Defenders
Right Back: Dani Carvajal (85 → 94 OVR) Silverware is nothing new to Carvajal, and after another stellar season with Real Madrid and Spain, his inclusion in the TOTY seems certain. He was the top-ranked defender in the Ballon d’Or rankings and a regular in both teams. With few real contenders in his position, expect Carvajal to lock down the right flank with ease.
Center Back: Virgil van Dijk (89 → 96 OVR) Some players make the TOTY based on sheer reputation, but Van Dijk isn’t just riding his legacy—he’s still at the top of his game. Liverpool’s defensive anchor continues to command the backline with authority, and history tells us that when it comes to TOTY, name recognition matters. Expect another well-earned blue card for the Dutchman.
Center Back: Antonio Rüdiger (88 → 95 OVR) Here’s where things get interesting. While William Saliba has a strong case, history favors Champions League winners, and that gives Rüdiger the edge. The German has been a defensive rock for Real Madrid, consistently bailing out his team when needed. His aggressive, no-nonsense style makes him a favorite among FUT players as well.
Left Back: Theo Hernández (87 → 95 OVR) The French full-back is a fan favorite because of his quick speed and attacking ability. Despite Grimaldo’s outstanding season, Hernández has the advantage in winning this position due to his popularity and steady play.
Midfielders
Central Attacking Midfielder: Florian Wirtz (88 → 96 OVR) Even though midfield competition is tough, Wirtz’s combination of flair, vision, and playmaking genius makes him a deserving candidate for the TOTY award. If EA genuinely values individual excellence, Wirtz should receive his blue upgrade. Wirtz scored goals and made easy assists, hence propelling his team’s flawless season.
Defensive Midfielder: Rodri (91 → 98 OVR) Not every year do defensive midfielders win the Ballon d’Or; when they do, it’s difficult to miss. Rodri is the driving force behind Manchester City, directing play and keeping everything together. He is deserving of a TOTY card with a score of 98. There is no denying his supremacy in midfield, and City’s difficulties without him only serve to highlight his influence.
Central Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (90 → 97 OVR) Bellingham’s TOTY will reflect his recent explosive growth. He was a key contributor to Real Madrid’s triumph and an early favorite for the Ballon d’Or. Jude’s clutch goals and dominant performances have shown that he is a member of the top. You may anticipate seeing him in TOTY for years to come; this is just the beginning.
Forwards
Left Wing: Vinícius Jr. (90 → 98 OVR) Vinícius has completely assumed the position of Madrid’s primary man and silenced his skeptics. There is no question about his position in TOTY, regardless of whether you think he should have won the Ballon d’Or. He is a nightmare for defenders because he is decisive and electric. He will probably get a well-earned 98-rated card from EA to reflect his standing.
Striker: Kylian Mbappé (91 → 97 OVR) You cannot ignore him, whether you like him or not. Mbappé’s popularity in the game is unrivaled, despite some people claiming that his season doesn’t compare to goal-scoring machines like Gyökeres or Kane. This is about star power, and Mbappé has a lot of it. It’s not just about numbers. He’s almost certain to win TOTY.
Right Wing: Mohamed Salah (89 → 96 OVR) Salah has been in amazing shape at the right moment; timing is really important. Having had 19 outings and scored 18 goals and 13 assists, he is once more ruling the Premier League. Though he looks certain he will participate next year, his incredible run of performance might be sufficient to qualify him for the squad this year as well.
Final Thoughts
Although there is little question that this year’s TOTY will generate contentious debates, the roster seems to strike a balance between popularity, status, and performance. Real Madrid and Spain’s dominance naturally see them well-represented, while Premier League bias plays its usual role. Regardless of personal preferences, these players have all left their mark on the football world—and soon, on FC 25’s TOTY lineup.
