The Ultimate Right-Back Guide for EA Sports FC 25 Career Mode

The dawn of a new football season in EA Sports FC 25 brings with it the timeless thrill of career mode. Managers across the virtual world are once again tasked with the delicate art of squad building, where every position holds the key to glory or despair. In the modern tactical landscape, perhaps no role has evolved more dramatically than that of the fullback. Gone are the days of purely defensive-minded sentinels; today's elite, inspired by pioneers like Trent Alexander-Arnold, are dynamic, attack-launching engines. Finding the perfect right-back can be the difference between a stagnant side and a title-challenging force. But with so many promising names on the market, who offers the perfect blend of immediate impact and future-proof potential for your managerial project in 2026?

The Veteran Anchors: Instant Quality

Sometimes, a project needs stability from day one. For managers who have invested heavily in a young, high-potential left-back and require a rock-solid partner on the opposite flank, experience is priceless.

Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid) remains the epitome of ready-made class. Starting and peaking at an 86 overall, the Spanish stalwart offers zero growing pains. He is the definitive plug-and-play solution. However, at 34 years old in 2026, his time at the top is limited. Is he a wise long-term investment, or merely a brilliant short-term fix to stabilize your defense while you scout for the future?

A more versatile alternative is Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich). Also starting at 86 overall, Kimmich's true value lies in his incredible flexibility. Three years younger than Carvajal, he brings world-class passing (88) and the ability to slot seamlessly into central midfield. This makes him a fantastic asset for squad building; even if you eventually sign a specialist right-back, Kimmich's role is never redundant. Isn't that the kind of multi-functional player every manager dreams of?

Player	Club	Age (2026)	Starting OVR	Potential	Key Attribute
Dani Carvajal	Real Madrid	34	86	86	Defensive Reliability
Joshua Kimmich	Bayern Munich	31	86	86	Passing (88) & Versatility

The Prime Contenders: Peak Performers

These players are in the sweet spot of their careers—old enough to be elite, young enough to still improve. They are the marquee signings for managers looking to win now and for the next five seasons.

Achraf Hakimi (PSG) is a game-changer. With a starting 84 overall and 86 potential, his 91 Pace is a weapon of mass destruction on the right wing. Paired with 4-star skill moves and a 4-star weak foot, he is the ultimate offensive fullback. The question for managers is: can you refine his 80 Passing to make those blistering runs count with even more deadly final balls?

Then there's the archetype himself, Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool). Starting at 86 with room to grow to 87, TAA's passing is already a work of art at 90. He doesn't just contribute to attacks; he orchestrates them from deep. His main drawback is his 75 Pace, which is difficult to improve significantly. The challenge for a manager is clear: can you build a system that protects him defensively to unleash his unparalleled creative genius?

The Future Stars: Long-Term Projects

For those building a dynasty, the most exciting signings are the young talents whose potential outstrips their current ability. These are the players you mold into world-beaters.

At just 23 years old in 2026, Malo Gusto (Chelsea) is a raw diamond. Starting at 80 overall but with a lofty 86 potential, his foundation is built on electrifying 88 Pace. The rest is a blank canvas. Investing in his technical and defensive development from the start is crucial. Is your coaching staff up to the task of turning this speedster into the complete fullback?

A standout on the women's side, Ellie Carpenter (Lyon) represents perhaps the most exciting project of all. Starting at a very respectable 83, her 88 potential is among the highest for any right-back in the game. At 26, she has the perfect blend of youth and readiness. Her attributes are well-rounded, offering no glaring weaknesses but plenty of areas for balanced growth. With a focused development plan, she can become a dominant force within two seasons.

The Crown Jewel: Highest Potential

Sitting atop the mountain of potential is Jules Kounde (FC Barcelona). Starting from a high base of 85 overall, Kounde boasts a staggering 89 potential—the highest for any right-back in Career Mode. At 27, he is in his prime and already a defensive powerhouse with 86 Defending. He offers the rare combination of being world-class now and having the capacity to become truly legendary. His ability to also cover at centre-back adds invaluable squad depth. The only minor limitation is his 5'11" frame if used centrally. For the manager who wants the best of all worlds—elite defense, room for growth, and tactical flexibility—Kounde is the ultimate prize.

Making Your Choice: A Manager's Checklist ✅

Selecting your right-back is a strategic decision that defines your save. Ask yourself these questions:

1. What is my timeline? Win-now (Carvajal, Kimmich) vs. build for the future (Gusto, Carpenter).

2. What is my tactical style? Need a winger in disguise (Hakimi, Alexander-Arnold) or a defensive bastion (Kounde)?

3. What is my budget? Veterans and established stars cost more in wages and transfer fees, while prospects require a patient investment in training.

4. Do I value versatility? Players like Kimmich and Kounde offer multiple solutions in one squad slot.

From the instant reliability of Carvajal to the sky-high ceiling of Kounde, the right-back position in EA Sports FC 25 is rich with talent for every kind of managerial vision. Your choice will shape your team's identity for seasons to come. Who will you trust to secure your flank and launch your attacks on the road to glory?