As the football community eagerly looks forward to the release of EA Sports FC 26, one of the most anticipated elements is discovering which players will receive the prestigious 5-Star Skill Moves rating. These players are the masters of close control, capable of executing the most technical dribbles and advanced tricks — from Elastico variations to the Sombrero Flick. In competitive modes such as Ultimate Team, they are seen as game-changing assets, both for their in-game effectiveness and their value in the market. For those looking to build elite squads, investing in stars with FC 26 Coins can make all the difference in securing these rare talents early on.

Why 5-Star Skills Matter in EA Sports FC

The skill move rating determines the complexity of dribbling maneuvers a player can perform. At 4 stars, you unlock advanced techniques, but it’s the 5-star tier that gives access to the most elite moves. In competitive scenarios, the ability to create space with a single flick or feint can decide a match. Combined with pace and agility, players with maximum skill rating become much harder to defend against, especially for opponents who play high defensive lines or tightly packed low blocks.

Guaranteed Retainers of 5-Star Status

Some footballers are so closely associated with flair that their 5-star rating is almost untouchable. They not only possess the technical talent but also showcase it consistently in top-level matches. Based on performances and historical consistency, these players are highly likely to remain unchanged in FC 26:

  • Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) – A blend of devastating pace and flawless dribbling, central to gameplay meta and marketing appeal.
  • Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid) – His one-on-one dominance and skill-based attacking style are integral to both club and game persona.
  • Neymar Jr. (Al Hilal) – The embodiment of ‘Joga Bonito’, still an icon for both casual and competitive players.
  • Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich) – Exceptional close control with unique movement patterns, maintaining his rising-star status.
  • Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal) – Playmaking vision combined with deceptive touches and feints.
  • Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea) – Injuries aside, remains a creative and technical threat in final-third spaces.

Potential Promotions to 5 Stars

Every season features breakout performances from emerging players whose flair and control could earn them the coveted upgrade. These are the names most likely to join the 5-star club in FC 26:

  • Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona) – Fearless in taking on defenders, his early career is marked by audacious skills and efficiency.
  • Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Napoli) – Known for unpredictable movement and creativity, already has elite weak-foot ability.
  • Jérémy Doku (Manchester City) – Among the top dribblers in the Premier League, combining speed with subtle directional changes.
  • Savinho (Girona/Manchester City) – A revelation in La Liga, his style mirrors Brazil’s tradition of entertaining wingers.

Predicted FC 26 5-Star Skiller Table

Player Name Club (Predicted) Nationality Status Prediction
Kylian Mbappé Real Madrid France Certain to Retain
Vinícius Jr. Real Madrid Brazil Certain to Retain
Neymar Jr. Al Hilal Brazil Certain to Retain
Jamal Musiala Bayern Munich Germany Certain to Retain
Martin Ødegaard Arsenal Norway Likely to Retain
Christopher Nkunku Chelsea France Likely to Retain
Ousmane Dembélé Paris Saint-Germain France Likely to Retain
Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nassr Portugal Likely to Retain
Riyad Mahrez Al-Ahli Algeria At Risk of Downgrade
Thiago Free Agent Spain High Risk of Downgrade
Paul Pogba Juventus France Certain to be Removed/Downgraded
Lamine Yamal FC Barcelona Spain Potential Upgrade
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia Napoli Georgia Potential Upgrade
Jérémy Doku Manchester City Belgium Potential Upgrade
Michael Olise Crystal Palace France Potential Upgrade

Downgrade Risks

While some stars are on the rise, others risk losing their elite status. Thiago Alcântara has endured a season hampered by injuries and, with his free agent status, is likely to see a downgrade. Riyad Mahrez, despite retaining flair, has moved from a top European league to a less competitive environment, which historically impacts ratings. The most clear-cut downgrade appears to be Paul Pogba, whose ongoing professional situation makes his removal from the 5-star list almost inevitable. For players seeking their next top-tier dribbler in Ultimate Team, timing acquisitions with market trends and securing assets using FC 26 Coins buy  can be an effective strategy.