The Squad Building Challenge (SBC) landscape in EA Sports FC 25 has evolved dramatically since the game's launch, offering players unprecedented opportunities to enhance their Ultimate Team experience. With the latest updates rolling into 2025, the SBC ecosystem continues to be a cornerstone feature for club development and player acquisition.
R9 SBC: The Ultimate Icon Challenge
The most coveted SBC in the game remains the 99-rated Ronaldo Nazário (R9) challenge. This massive undertaking requires approximately 15-20 separate squad submissions, with overall costs hovering around 7-8 million coins depending on market fluctuations. Despite the astronomical price tag, thousands of players have completed the 99 R9 SBC, considering it the ultimate flex in FC 25.
"This R9 SBC is absolutely worth every coin if you can afford it," notes community manager DaveFUT. "The card performs unlike anything we've seen in Ultimate Team history."
The requirements typically include multiple 88+ rated squads with specific chemistry conditions, making fodder management crucial for completion. Players strategically tackling this challenge often spread completion over several weeks to optimize costs.
Women's Football Integration: Chloe Kelly SBC
One of the most significant additions to EA Sports FC 25 SBC content has been the seamless integration of women footballers. The Chloe Kelly SBC represents this shift perfectly, offering an exceptional right-wing option with unique PlayStyles that differentiate her from traditional male counterparts.
The Chloe Kelly SBC requires just two squad submissions – an 86-rated team and an 87-rated team with one English player. The value proposition has made this one of the most completed challenges of the season, with players praising her in-game performance.
The 26 SBC ✅ Revolution
The introduction of the "26 SBC ✅" series has transformed how players approach squad building. These challenges, designed specifically for FC 26 preparation, offer unique rewards that bridge the gap between game cycles. Completing these SBCs provides special packs and player items that carry additional benefits when FC 26 launches.
"The 26 SBC ✅ series is EA's most player-friendly initiative yet," explains content creator FUTEconomist. "They're essentially rewarding loyal players with a head start for next year while providing immediate value in FC 25."
Companion App Integration
The FC Companion App has revolutionized how players engage with SBCs, allowing completion on mobile devices without console access. This flexibility has been particularly valuable for time-sensitive challenges and market opportunities.
However, some users have reported occasional connectivity issues. Forum user Dro12 noted: "I logged on just before 1 pm est submitted 1 of the 85 players trade in and went to submit the 86 players one and started to get an error message." These intermittent server problems remain a frustration for dedicated SBC grinders.
Advanced SBC Strategies
Successful SBC completion in FC 25 requires more than just having coins or players – it demands strategic planning:
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Fodder Management: Track your high-rated untradeable cards using tools like the EA Sports FC 25 Companion App
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Market Timing: Complete SBCs during rewards days (Thursday/Friday) when card prices typically dip
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An SBC Framework: Develop template squads that maximize chemistry while minimizing coin expenditure
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Leveraging Evolutions: Use evolved players strategically in SBCs to meet rating requirements efficiently
The Future of SBCs in EA Sports FC
As we look ahead to the remainder of the FC 25 cycle and beyond, EA Sports continues to innovate with SBC formats. The introduction of "cosmetic evolutions" through SBCs has added another dimension to squad customization, allowing players to modify animations and visual effects.
"The SBC system has become so much more than just player acquisition," notes game designer EA_Darran on the official forums. "It's now a comprehensive club management tool that rewards creativity and resource management."
For players looking to maximize their FC 25 experience, mastering the SBC ecosystem isn't optional – it's essential. Whether you're chasing that elusive 99 R9 SBC or simply optimizing your club through daily and weekly challenges, Squad Building Challenges remain the beating heart of Ultimate Team.
Remember, the key to SBC success isn't always having the most coins, but rather making strategic decisions about where and when to invest your club resources. Happy building!
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