EA SPORTS FC™ 26: Closed Beta Feedback Update and Upcoming Changes

• Feedback Overview
• Key Feedback Points
• Low Driven Shot Effectiveness
• AI Defender Speed
• Attacking AI Positioning
• Clubs Archetypes
• Contract Renewal Negotiations
• Heavy Dribble Touches
• AI Call For Pass Delay
• Be A Goalkeeper Save Delay
• FUT Tournament Time Limits
• AI Shot Selection
• Share Your Feedback

Feedback Overview

Thank you to everyone who participated in the EA SPORTS FC 26 Closed Beta. Your input has been invaluable in pinpointing areas for improvement. In this update, we’ll share some of the primary feedback we received and outline our plans for upcoming changes as we finalize the game for its release.

Key Feedback Points

Throughout the Closed Beta, important feedback emerged from our Player Feedback Portal and forums. Here are some of the most common points raised:

• Low Driven Shot Effectiveness
• AI Defender Speed
• Attacking AI Positioning
• Clubs Archetypes
• Contract Renewal Negotiations
• Heavy Dribble Touches
• AI Call For Pass Delay
• Be A Goalkeeper Save Delay
• FUT Tournament Match To Match Time Limits
• AI Shot Selection

Low Driven Shot Effectiveness

Summary

Many players expressed concerns about low driven shots being overly effective, with goalkeepers failing to respond as expected. At this juncture, we’re actively working on enhancing goalkeeper reactions to these shots and anticipate implementing these changes before Early Access on September 19.

Before and After

To provide a glimpse into the improvements, here is a comparison of low driven shot interactions from the Closed Beta and what to expect in the future. Our goal is to ensure much better goalkeeper reactions in these instances.

AI Defender Speed

Summary

Feedback indicated that AI defenders occasionally appeared excessively quick, making it difficult for attackers to get past them. After investigation, it appears that some ball trapping animations caused attackers to take longer to get moving, providing defenders with an unfair advantage.

What’s Next

We will be addressing these animation issues to enhance gameplay fluidity and improve the attacker’s ability to maneuver against defenders.

Attacking AI Positioning

Summary

Several players noted that attacking AIs regularly failed to make sensible runs or often found themselves offside. To combat this, we’ll ensure that they can better recognize open spaces and act accordingly.

Clubs Archetypes

Summary

While there has been a positive reaction to the Archetypes system, many players felt that the progression could be more engaging. To enhance this experience, we plan to:

• Increase the amount of Attribute Points (AP) awarded at level 1.
• Boost AP awarded per level up.

Look for these changes to be implemented alongside Early Access.

Contract Renewal Negotiations

Summary

Confusion regarding contract renewal readiness was another common point of feedback. We recognize that some in-game messaging may have unintentionally conveyed incorrect information about player satisfaction with their contracts.

What’s Next

We will clarify this messaging and enhance the functionality around contract renewal willingness, enabling regular updates on players nearing contract expiration.

Heavy Dribble Touches

Summary

Feedback indicated that dribble touches could propel the ball too far, leading to dispossessions. We’ll closely monitor this scenario and aim to address instances arising during specific gameplay conditions.

AI Call For Pass Delay

Summary

Many players reported that AI teammates could be lagging in their passing reactions. We’ve concluded that enhancing the timing of AI responses is necessary to rectify this.

Be A Goalkeeper Save Delay

Summary

In the Closed Beta, players indicated frustration with save inconsistencies when playing as a goalkeeper. Our design team has been reviewing this feedback closely.

FUT Tournament Time Limits

Summary

Initially, match-to-match time limits were intended to streamline gameplay, but we've decided to remove them following community feedback on frustration with this mechanic.

AI Shot Selection

Summary

In offline gameplay, AI players sometimes hesitated to take scoring opportunities. We’re working to make AI decisions around shots quicker and more intuitive.

Share Your Feedback

Thanks once more for your invaluable contributions during the Closed Beta. Your feedback helps us refine and improve EA SPORTS FC 26. Keep contributing via the FC Feedback Hub and participating in discussions on the EA SPORTS FC Discord.

Pre-orders for EA SPORTS FC 26 are now available, with a worldwide launch on September 26, 2025. Early Access begins on September 19, 2025 exclusively for the Ultimate Edition. For the latest news and updates, be sure to follow @EASFCDIRECT on X and check out the EA SPORTS FC Tracker.