Make Player Relationships Feel Authentic

Player morale and manager interactions are present in FC 25, but they feel shallow and repetitive. Football Manager 24 introduces more complex interactions, with FC 26 Coins diverse scenarios and detailed dialogue trees. FC 26 should adopt a more nuanced system, offering layered interactions that affect morale, performance, and team chemistry. Press conferences and media handling should also influence the team atmosphere, adding another strategic layer.

Overhaul Youth Development From the Ground Up

Youth academies are crucial in football management, yet in FC 25, their implementation feels surface-level. EA Sports should introduce a more detailed player development system in FC 26, complete with comprehensive scouting reports, youth facility upgrades, and youth league competitions. Adding U21 tournaments and training-based growth mechanics would make nurturing young talent both rewarding and realistic.

Backroom Staff Management Needs Expansion

In FC 25, staff hiring is limited to four coaching roles, and even those feel like an afterthought. In contrast, FM 24 offers full control over a backroom team, from medical staff to data analysts. FC 26 should include an expanded staff management system that allows for strategic hiring. Staff should come with attributes and specializations that influence training quality, injury recovery, and tactical planning.

Tactical Set Pieces Offer Untapped Depth

Set pieces in FC 25 lack tactical variation and rarely feel impactful. FC 26 should implement a robust set piece creator, allowing managers to design specific routines for corners and free kicks. Letting players assign detailed roles, movement patterns, and positional strategies would enhance realism and allow for EA FC 26 Coins match-winning moments that feel earned.