EA Sports FC 26 is set to electrify football gaming fans with its highly anticipated release, continuing the franchise’s legacy of delivering immersive soccer experiences. The first official gameplay trailer dropped on July 16, 2025, showcasing new features, enhanced mechanics, and the return of Brazil’s Série A, as revealed on EA Sports’ YouTube channel.
Fans can expect the full game to launch on September 26 2025, with Ultimate Edition pre-order players gaining early access from September 19 2025, aligning with EA’s traditional late-September release schedule.
In a thrilling announcement for football and gaming fans worldwide, EA Sports has unveiled Jude Bellingham and Jamal Musiala as the cover stars for the Standard Edition of EA Sports FC 26, set to launch in September 2025. The selection of these two young superstars reflects EA’s commitment to showcasing the next generation of football talent, blending youth, flair, and global appeal.
Meanwhile, the Ultimate Edition will feature the iconic Zlatan Ibrahimović, adding a touch of legendary swagger to the franchise. This dual cover approach marks a significant moment for the series, as it’s the first time since FIFA 23 that two players will share the Standard Edition spotlight.
Roommates to Rivals to Cover Stars. @BellinghamJude and @JamalMusiala are side by side with the community on the #FC26 Standard Edition.
— EA SPORTS FC (@EASPORTSFC) July 16, 2025
See the full reveal today: https://t.co/5s9nHPPxcw pic.twitter.com/MHWSXG45L9
A Journey from Roommates to Rivals to Cover Stars
Jude Bellingham and Jamal Musiala’s paths have been intertwined since their days as teammates in England’s youth international setups. Once roommates, the duo’s shared history adds a heartfelt narrative to their joint appearance on the *FC 26* cover. Bellingham, now a linchpin for Real Madrid, and Musiala, Bayern Munich’s dazzling playmaker, have evolved from promising talents to global stars. Their selection as cover athletes underscores their meteoric rise and their status as icons of modern football.
The FC 26 Standard Edition cover captures this dynamic perfectly, depicting Bellingham and Musiala striding out of a tunnel in their respective Real Madrid and Bayern Munich kits for the 2025/26 season, with fans cheering and Champions League branding in the background. The image exudes a sense of competitive energy and camaraderie, reflecting their journey from youth teammates to rivals on the pitch and now co-stars on one of gaming’s biggest stages.
A Historic Moment for Musiala
For Jamal Musiala, this is a landmark achievement. At just 22, he becomes the first German player to grace the cover of the EA Sports FC franchise since Marco Reus in 2016. Musiala’s selection is particularly poignant given his recent injury—a fractured fibula and ruptured ligaments sustained during Bayern Munich’s Club World Cup quarter-final, which will sideline him for several months. Despite this setback, his inclusion on the cover is a testament to his undeniable talent and marketability.
Musiala has spoken about the surreal experience, recalling how he grew up playing the game and idolizing cover stars like Ronaldinho, Messi, and Neymar. “I was that little kid,” he said. “It seemed impossible to think that one day I’d be in their position.”
Musiala’s rise from a Chelsea academy prospect to a Bayern Munich superstar and German international highlights his versatility and flair. His 40 appearances for Germany, coupled with his quick feet and creative playstyle, have made him one of the most exciting players to watch. For EA, choosing Musiala signals a focus on the future of football, while also celebrating Bayern’s renewed partnership with the franchise, which will see the Allianz Arena return to the game for the first time in years.
Bellingham’s Second Stint as Cover Star
Jude Bellingham, already a familiar face after starring on the FC 25 cover, continues to cement his status as a global football icon. At Real Madrid, the 22-year-old midfielder has showcased leadership and consistency, making him a natural choice to remain the face of the franchise. His inclusion alongside Musiala not only highlights their shared history but also EA’s intent to spotlight players who embody the modern game’s intensity and charisma. Bellingham’s second consecutive cover appearance is a rare feat, underscoring his growing influence both on and off the pitch.
However, like Musiala, Bellingham has faced challenges this season, with injuries reportedly side-lining him for three to four months. Fans have speculated about a “cover curse,” noting the unfortunate timing of both players’ injuries. Despite these concerns, the duo’s selection was finalized well before their injuries, reflecting their stellar performances in the 2024/25 season and their undeniable star power.
A Nod to the Past with Zlatan’s Ultimate Edition
While Bellingham and Musiala represent the future, the Ultimate Edition cover featuring Zlatan Ibrahimović pays homage to football’s storied past. The retired Swedish legend, known for his larger-than-life personality and iconic career at clubs like Barcelona, PSG, and Inter Milan, recreates a nostalgic photo from his youth in Malmö for the cover. The image, complete with posters of his famous overhead kick, adds a personal touch to the Ultimate Edition. Zlatan’s inclusion as both a cover star and a new Icon in the game is a fitting tribute to his remarkable legacy.
FC without Zlatan is not complete. I'm back. @easportsfc #FC26 #ad pic.twitter.com/pEtHUXP05Q
— Zlatan Ibrahimović (@Ibra_official) July 14, 2025
