The Best XI in World Football According to EA FC 26
EA Sports has unveiled its prediction for the best XI in world football in 2035, featuring players from top clubs like Barcelona, Manchester United, and Real Madrid. This list is based on the highest-potential players currently aged 22 or younger, as featured in the new game, EA FC 26.
Goalkeeper: Guillaume Restes – 86 Potential
Those familiar with Ligue 1 will already know Guillaume Restes, who has made a name for himself with Toulouse. He’s been linked with several top European sides and is expected to break into the France squad in the coming years. With a potential of 86, he’s tipped to surpass players like James Trafford and Jonas Urbig, making him a valuable addition to any team.
Right Back: Givairo Read – 88 Potential
Givairo Read has a higher potential than players like Tino Livramento and Josh Acheampong. The teenager has been developing well with Feyenoord and was linked with Liverpool and Barcelona over the summer. EA Sports believe he’s set for big things.
Centre-Back: Pau Cubarsi – 88 Potential
Pau Cubarsi, a Barcelona wonderkid, has already established himself in the first team and on the international stage. Despite the hype around him, his potential is rated at 88. Predicting the future of defenders is challenging, but Cubarsi seems destined for success.
Centre-Back: Dean Huijsen – 89 Potential
Another Spanish defender with a bright future, Dean Huijsen has shown remarkable development throughout 2024-25. At 20 years old, he’s expected to improve while playing for Real Madrid. By 2035, he could have accumulated numerous trophies.
Left Back: Jorrel Hato – 89 Potential
Jorrel Hato, capable of playing as a left-back or centre-half, has a bright future ahead. After making a name for himself with Ajax, Chelsea purchased him for £35.5 million and signed him for seven years. With a potential of 89, he’s expected to outperform players like Arda Guler and Estevao.
Midfielder: Pedri – 93 Potential
Pedri is already considered one of the best midfielders in the world, having played a key role for Barcelona and Spain. He placed 11th in the recent Ballon d’Or shortlist, which surprised many. If he stays injury-free, he could be among the best for the next decade.
Midfielder: Joao Neves – 90 Potential
Joao Neves, who played a key role in PSG winning the Champions League, is already considered one of the best midfielders. His intensity and quality on and off the ball have impressed managers like Luis Enrique, who described him as an amazing player.
Right Midfielder: Lamine Yamal – 95 Potential
Lamine Yamal is expected to be a regular in such lists. By 2035, he’ll only be 28, theoretically in the prime of his career. His high potential of 95 means that players like Arda Guler and Estevao will need to make up the bench.
Central Attacking Midfielder: Jude Bellingham – 94 Potential
Jude Bellingham has over 300 appearances under his belt for club and country. By 2035, he’ll be in his early thirties. If he remains injury-free and stays at Real Madrid, he could retire as one of the most decorated players in football history. His potential of 94 puts him slightly ahead of players like Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala.
Left Midfielder: Desire Doue – 91 Potential
Desire Doue is arguably the most exciting player to watch right now. The PSG youngster has a potential of 91, putting him slightly ahead of players like Rio Ngumoha and Antonio Nusa. Given his pedigree and club, there’s a chance he could win a Ballon d’Or by 2035.
Striker: Benjamin Sesko – 88 Potential
Benjamin Sesko is predicted to be the best striker in the world by 2035, according to EA Sports. Despite a tough start in Manchester, the 22-year-old has shown glimpses of quality during his time at RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg. Whether he’ll become the best striker in the world remains to be seen, but he has plenty of potential.
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