Meet Eivind Helland – the towering Norwegian centre-back who rose from the third division to AC Milan stardom in FM26.
Eivind Helland is one of the most complete centre-backs you can sign in Football Manager 2026. Standing at 196 cm tall, the Norwegian giant combines strength, aerial dominance, and composure with a mentality that screams leadership. From humble beginnings in Norway’s lower leagues to commanding AC Milan’s back line, Helland is a true FM fairytale.
Starting Profile – 2025 (SK Brann)
At 20 years old, Helland starts his journey at Brann as a physically imposing defender with elite potential. His combination of strength, determination, and positioning already makes him stand out, even before his prime years. With a Resolute personality and consistent match ratings, he’s a must-scout player for anyone managing in Scandinavia.
Highlights include:
- Tackling: 15 – clean and decisive challenges
- Marking: 13 – solid defensive awareness
- Determination: 17 – mentally unshakable
- Strength: 15 – physically dominant against any striker
- Positioning: 14 – reads the game far beyond his years
Valued at £4.9M–£6.4M and earning £625 per week, Helland represents outstanding value early on. He’s best suited as a Ball-Playing Centre-Back or a No-Nonsense Defender in a structured back four, especially for teams looking to build from the back without sacrificing defensive stability.
Developed Profile – 2030 (AC Milan)
By 25 years old, Helland has transformed into one of the world’s elite defenders at AC Milan. His physicals are monstrous, and his mental attributes are world-class — positioning, anticipation, and determination all sit in the upper tier. Valued between £73M–£96M with a wage of £180K per week, he’s the definition of a late bloomer who fulfilled his immense potential.
Key attributes at this stage:
- Marking: 16
- Tackling: 16
- Heading: 15
- Determination: 17
- Concentration: 14
- Positioning: 16
- Strength: 16
- Jumping Reach: 16
Career Path and Achievements
Helland’s career started in Norway’s third tier with Fyllingsdalen, before rising through Brann where he helped win the Norwegian Cup in 2027. A move to RB Salzburg in 2027 marked his first major step abroad, where his consistency attracted attention from Europe’s elite. In 2028, AC Milan swooped in for £30M, and he quickly established himself as a key defender in Serie A, making over 60 league appearances and representing Norway 32 times at the international level.
Traits and Personality
Helland’s Resolute personality is a dream for any manager — calm under pressure, consistent in big games, and with a focused mentality that makes him a leader without the armband. His traits — Marks Opponent Tightly, Stays Back At All Times, and Avoids Using Weaker Foot — make him an intelligent defender who prioritises structure over flair.
Best Role and Usage
- Best Role: Ball-Playing Centre-Back
- Position: DC (Right)
- Formation Fit: 4-3-3 or 3-5-2
- Playstyle: Compact defensive line with disciplined build-up play
- Needs: Technical development in passing and vision to maximise ball-playing potential
Pros
- Elite physical frame – tall, strong, and powerful in the air
- Excellent positioning and anticipation
- Consistent performances in top leagues
- Natural leader with high determination
Cons
- Limited flair and creativity on the ball
- Not suited for high defensive lines against pacey opposition
Market Value and Reputation
By 2030, Helland’s market value reaches £73M–£96M with weekly wages of £180K at AC Milan. He’s recognised worldwide as an Elite Centre-Back and a cornerstone for both club and country. A Scandinavian powerhouse whose reliability makes him a dream signing for any top-tier manager.
Verdict – The Norwegian Giant
Eivind Helland embodies the perfect FM26 defensive project — calm, composed, and commanding. From the icy pitches of Norway to the bright lights of Milan, his rise is a masterclass in player development. If you want a dependable, elite defender who can anchor your defence for a decade, Helland is the man.
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