EA Sports FC 26 will be officially revealed this Wednesday, July 16, 2025, with Swedish legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic confirmed as the Ultimate Edition cover athlete. This marks a significant moment for the franchise as it seeks to bounce back from last year’s disappointing performance.
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Key Announcement Details
EA has confirmed that Zlatan will appear as an icon item in the game, joining the roster of legendary footballers celebrated in EA Sports FC. The iconic striker’s inclusion adds star power to what EA hopes will be a redemption year for the franchise.
EA Sports FC 26 Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Reveal Date | Wednesday, July 16, 2025 |
| Cover Athlete | Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Ultimate Edition) |
| Expected Release | September 2025 |
| Platform Availability | Multiple platforms expected |
| New Addition | Zlatan as Icon item |
Bouncing Back from FC 25’s Struggles
EA Sports FC 25 missed its financial targets, dealing a significant blow to EA’s revenue expectations. The company relies heavily on annual sports games, particularly the Football Ultimate Team (FUT) live service component, to drive profits.
Following the disappointment, EA made strategic cuts including shutting down projects at Respawn and canceling the Black Panther game by closing Cliffhanger Games. These moves highlight the pressure on FC 26 to deliver commercially.
What Zlatan Brings to FC 26
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s inclusion as cover athlete represents more than just marketing appeal. His legendary career spanning top clubs like PSG, Barcelona, Manchester United, and AC Milan resonates with global football fans. His addition to the icon roster provides nostalgic value for players seeking to recreate legendary moments.
Series Context and Expectations
Players can currently experience EA Sports FC 25 on Xbox Game Pass, which joined the service last month. However, EA’s focus remains firmly on September’s FC 26 launch, expected to follow the franchise’s traditional early fall release window.
The franchise needs a strong showing after FC 25’s commercial struggles, making Wednesday’s reveal crucial for rebuilding momentum and investor confidence.
For more EA Sports updates, check our sports gaming coverage and gaming news.
FAQs
When will EA Sports FC 26 be fully revealed?
The full reveal is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
Who is the confirmed cover athlete for EA Sports FC 26?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic will appear on the Ultimate Edition cover.
