Complete FM26 wonderkids scouting guide with roles, traits, prices, and development tips.
Chasing wonderkids in FM26 is half the fun and most of the edge. With the fresh UI and tactical tweaks, recruitment has never mattered more - nail your first three signings and you turn a decent save into a dynasty. Below you’ll find my hand-picked 50 best wonderkids in FM26 - the youngsters with elite ceilings, smart price tags and the right attributes to explode under good coaching.
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Lamine Yamal - Barcelona - AMR
Lamine Yamal is FM26’s headline right-sided wonderkid - a 17-year-old left-footer at Barcelona with outrageous end product and flair. He thrives as an Inverted Winger or Inside Forward on AMR, dancing past full backs with Dribbling 18, First Touch 18, Technique 18 and Flair 19, while Passing 17 and Crossing 17 make him a creator as much as a finisher. Vision 18 and Decisions 16 mean he regularly picks the killer ball rather than forcing shots, though Finishing 14 and Long Shots 15 already hint at double-digit league goals. He comes with four perfect traits for the role - Uses Outside of Foot, Tries Tricks, Likes Ball Played Into Feet and Cuts Inside From Right Wing. Physically he is sharp off the mark with Acceleration 16 and Agility 18, but you should manage his workload early as Stamina 12 and Strength 10 are still developing. Contracted to 2031 on a massive wage and valued at £203m - £223m, he is almost untouchable in year one, so your best play is admire from afar or build your save around him if you are Barça.
Dean Huijsen - Real Madrid - DC
At 195 cm with Jumping Reach 17 and Heading 15, Dean Huijsen is a towering ball-playing centre-back who eats aerials for breakfast and then glides into midfield to progress play. Composure 17, Passing 15 and Technique 14 make him ideal for a possession side that wants the CB to split lines rather than punt it. Positioning 14, Decisions 14 and Anticipation 14 give you calm defensive reads, while Determination 15 and an Ambitious personality suggest steady year-on-year growth. He is two-footed enough to play either side of a pairing and carries the Brings Ball Out of Defence trait, so he naturally steps in to create overloads. The caveats are Acceleration 12, Strength 12 and Natural Fitness 11, meaning he needs gym work and careful load management if you run a high line. Valued at £61m-£97m on £150k p/w until 2030, he is expensive but far more gettable than Madrid’s untouchables and can anchor your defence for a decade.
Gavi - Barcelona - DM/MC
Gavi is FM26’s midfield metronome with bite - a relentless presser who also threads killer balls. Passing 15, Technique 15 and Vision 15 let him run build-up as a Deep-Lying Playmaker or dictate tempo as a box-to-box presence, while Tackling 14 and Off the Ball 16 keep him influential out of possession. The Perfectionist personality plus Determination 19, Work Rate 18 and Teamwork 16 scream captain material. He comes with spicy traits - Tries Killer Balls Often, Comes Deep To Get Ball, Winds Up Opponents and Dives Into Tackles - so expect line-breaking passes and a few shithouse moments. At 173 cm he is not towering, but Aggression 19 and Bravery 19 make him compete above his size, backed by Stamina 14 for heavy minutes. Valued at £87m-£107m on £155k p/w until 2030, he is a premium buy for elite saves or the heartbeat you build around if you are Barça.
Désiré Doué - PSG - AMR/AML/AMC
Désiré Doué is a slippery, two-footed creator who can play anywhere across the attacking midfield line and wreck defenders in transition. With Dribbling 17, First Touch 17 and Technique 16, he receives on the half-turn, glides past pressure and feeds runners with Passing 15 and Vision 15. Flair 16 plus the Uses Outside Of Foot trait makes his deliveries unpredictable from either flank, while Acceleration 16 and Agility 16 give him that snap over five yards you want in tight games. He is more provider than finisher right now - Finishing 12 and Composure 13 - so train Final Third and add Places Shots to push his goal output. Determination 15 and a Resolute personality hint at steady development, though Stamina 13 and Strength 11 need gym work if you play a high-intensity press. Valued at £91m-£145m on a modest £45.5k p/w until 2029, he is a premium but realistic marquee signing who lifts your ceiling immediately.
João Neves - PSG - DM/MC
João Neves is the neat-and-nasty glue of an elite midfield - quick to the ball, tidy on it and relentless without it. With Passing 15, First Touch 15 and Technique 14 he recycles possession cleanly, while Tackling 15 and Marking 13 let him snap into duels and win it back. The mental stack is outstanding for a 20-year-old - Aggression 17, Determination 16, Work Rate 16, Composure 15 and Concentration 16 - so he stays sharp for 90 minutes. Physically he runs all day with Stamina 17 and Natural Fitness 17, even if top speed is only Pace 13. Use him as a Central Midfielder or Midfield Playmaker in a three, or sit him at DM to screen and dictate in build-up. Valued at £108m to £173m on £150k p/w until 2029, he is pricey but instantly raises your floor and your ceiling.
Kenan Yıldız - Juventus - AML/AMR/AMC/ST
Juventus’ crown jewel is a 185 cm technician who glides inside from the left and punishes teams with a vicious right foot. Dribbling 17, Technique 17 and First Touch 16 let Kenan receive under pressure and beat a man, while Passing 15 and Vision 14 feed runners in behind. He already threatens goal with Long Shots 15 and Finishing 13 - add Places Shots and Shoots From Distance to turn half chances into screamers. Acceleration 15 and Agility 16 give him that snap over five metres, and Determination 16 with a Resolute personality means steady year-on-year growth. Use him as an Inside Winger on AML or a free 10 in a 4-2-3-1 - he links play, carries through the half spaces and arrives late to finish. Valued at £167m-£184m on £49k p/w until 2029, he is expensive to pry away but a franchise attacker if you can land him.
Pau Cubarsí - Barcelona - DC
Pau Cubarsí is the modern ball playing centre back you plug into a high line and forget about for a decade. Passing 16, Technique 15 and First Touch 15 let him thread lines from the back, while Decisions 15, Positioning 15 and Concentration 16 keep him ice cold under pressure. He is right footed but comfortable on his left, so he can play either side of a pairing and still hit those diagonal switches. At 184 cm with Pace 14 and Agility 14 he covers ground well, even if pure aerial dominance is still growing with Heading 13 and Jumping Reach 13. The Model Citizen personality plus Determination 16 is gold for development and for mentoring younger defenders. Valued at £87m - £107m on £86k p/w until 2029, he is expensive but a culture setter for elite possession saves.
Arda Güler - Real Madrid - AMC/MC
Arda Güler is a left-footed silk merchant built for running your final third - think Advanced Playmaker with licence to shoot. Technique 18, First Touch 17 and Passing 16 combine with Vision 17 and Flair 15 to pick locks others don’t even see, while Long Shots 16 and set pieces at 15/14/14 add direct goal threat. He naturally Comes Deep To Get Ball and Dictates Tempo, then Arrives Late In The Box to finish - perfect in a 4-2-3-1 as a free 10 or as a roaming CM in a three. Very Ambitious with Determination 16, he’ll climb quickly if you give him minutes and responsibility. The knocks - Pace 12 and Stamina 11 mean you should manage loads and rotate, and his right foot is weak, so keep him central or on the right half space to open his left. Valued £96m-£118m on £89k p/w to 2029, he’s a statement signing who turns good strikers into Golden Boot winners.
Jamie Gittens - Chelsea - AMR/AML
Jamie Gittens is a straight-line menace from either flank - pure pace and directness that terrifies full backs. With Dribbling 17 and Technique 16 he carries cleanly at top speed, while Acceleration 17, Pace 17 and Agility 16 mean he is gone the moment he knocks it past a man. His traits back it up - Likes To Beat Opponent Repeatedly and Runs With Ball Often - so use him as a Winger or Inside Forward and keep the instructions simple. End product is developing with First Touch 14 and Long Shots 13, though Finishing 11 and Decisions 10 need polish through chance creation roles and focused training. Ambitious by profile, he will climb quickly if you feed him minutes and work on composure. Valued at £44m-£71m on £125k p/w to 2032, he is a realistic pickup for clubs that want raw speed to stretch the pitch right now.
Rico Lewis - Man City - DR/WBR/DM
Rico Lewis is a coach’s dream for modern inverted full-back play - tidy on the ball, brave under pressure and tactically sharp. Acceleration 15 and Agility 17 get him out of tight spots, while Passing 13, Technique 13 and Composure 15 let him step into midfield and keep tempo with short, simple passes. Determination 17, Work Rate 16 and Positioning 16 make him rock solid in rest defence, and his traits - Gets Forward Whenever Possible, Gets Into Opposition Area, Plays Short Simple Passes and Tries To Play Way Out Of Trouble - are tailor-made for a Pep-style system. He is 169 cm with Jumping Reach 8 and Heading 12, so don’t ask him to dominate aerially or spam crosses given Crossing 10. Use him as an Inside Wing-Back or Playmaking Wing-Back on the right, or as an emergency DM against low blocks. Valued at £45m-£56m on £90k p/w until 2030, he’s a realistic elite-club pickup who raises your technical floor immediately.
Kobbie Mainoo - Man Utd - DM/MC
Kobbie Mainoo is a press-resistant midfield organiser who glides through traffic and keeps your build-up clean. Technique 16, First Touch 15 and Composure 16 make him ice-cold under pressure, while Agility 17 and Balance 16 help him roll challenges and carry through the centre. Passing 14 and Vision 13 give steady progression, and Finishing 13 lets him arrive late for goals when used as a Central Midfielder on support. His traits - Comes Deep To Get Ball, Plays One-Twos and Runs With Ball Through Centre - suit a positional 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 where he links defence to attack. The weaknesses are aerial presence and pure pace, so pair him with a ball-winner or athletic 6 and keep the line sensible. Valued at £51m - £82m on a modest £10k p/w until 2027, he is one of the most attainable blue-chip midfielders in the game - extend early or rivals will circle.
Endrick - Real Madrid - ST/AMR
Endrick is pure chaos in the box - a spring loaded striker with explosive bursts and a ruthless left foot. Finishing 15, Technique 15 and First Touch 14 combine with Off the Ball 14 and Flair 17 to create constant shooting windows, while Acceleration 16, Pace 15 and Strength 15 make him a nightmare to contain once he spins. He carries confidently from the right channel and loves the spectacular - Likes To Round Keeper, Attempts Overhead Kicks, Tries Tricks and Runs With Ball Often. Composure 14 is fine at 18 and Natural Fitness 18 screams long career - just manage his minutes if he is coming back from a knock. Use him as a Poacher or Channel Forward in a 4-2-3-1 and keep service quick and low across the six yard box. Valued at £96m-£118m on £67k p/w to 2030, he is a generational No 9 in the making if you can ever prise him from Madrid.
Myles Lewis-Skelly - Arsenal - DL/DM/MC
Myles Lewis-Skelly is a press resistant left footer who can play as a modern wing back or invert into midfield to progress play. Dribbling 15, First Touch 15 and Technique 15 let him receive under pressure and glide past the first line, while Passing 14 and Vision 13 keep moves flowing. Physically he is outstanding for an 18 year old - Acceleration 16, Agility 17, Balance 17 and Natural Fitness 17 with Strength 15 mean he rides contact and recovers quickly. The traits fit his profile perfectly - Brings Ball Out of Defence, Runs With Ball Through Centre and Tries To Play Way Out Of Trouble. Defensive fundamentals still need sharpening with Marking 10, Positioning 10 and Tackling 12, so pair him with a stay at home centre back while he develops. Valued at £52m-£83m on £70k p/w until 2030, he is a high ceiling LB/DM project who can become an elite carrier in a year or two of good coaching.
Mateus Fernandes - West Ham - MC/AMC
Mateus Fernandes is a balanced Portuguese midfielder who mixes clean distribution with honest graft. Technique 16, First Touch 15 and Passing 15 let him keep the ball moving, while Decisions 14, Concentration 16 and Composure 15 keep his head steady under pressure. He works like a trooper with Work Rate 16, Teamwork 16 and Determination 15, so you can trust him to cover ground and stick to structure. Tackling 14 means he can play as a Central Midfielder on support in a two, yet his set pieces - Corners 14 and Free Kicks 13 - add value higher up as an Advanced Playmaker. Pace 12 and Strength 12 are the limits, so pair him with an athletic partner and let him dictate rather than chase. Valued at £39m - £62m on £60k p/w to 2030, he is a sensible upgrade for any European hopeful that wants reliability with a bit of craft.
Ethan Nwaneri - Arsenal - AMC/AMR/MC
Ethan Nwaneri is a left-footed technician who glides through traffic and punches holes between the lines. Dribbling 15, Technique 15 and First Touch 14 let him receive on the half-turn, while Acceleration 16 and Agility 15 give him that pop to separate from markers. Vision 14 and Passing 14 make him a natural connector, and Finishing 13 plus Long Shots 14 hint at real end product if you play him as an Inside Winger on the right cutting in on his stronger foot. Composure 14 and Determination 15 are solid for an 18-year-old, backed by a Resilient personality that develops well with minutes. He is still slight - Strength 10 and Stamina 13 - so manage his loads early and target Composure/Decision-making and End Product in training. Valued at £44m-£58m on £60k p/w to 2030, he is a high-upside creator who can become a starter by season two with consistent minutes.
Valentín Barco - Strasbourg - DL/WBL/ML
Valentín Barco is a feisty left footer who plays with winger technique from full back and loves to surge into the final third. Crossing 15, Dribbling 15 and First Touch 15 mean he delivers quality on the move, while Technique 15 and Passing 13 keep combinations crisp when he inverts. He is dangerous from dead balls with Corners 16 and Free Kicks 14, so you instantly gain set piece threat from the left. Traits fit perfectly - Gets Forward Whenever Possible, Brings Ball Out of Defence and Tries Tricks - making him ideal as a Playmaking Wing Back or Inside Wing Back in a back four or five. The caveats are obvious - 172 cm with Jumping Reach 7, Strength 6 and Stamina 10, so protect him aerially and manage loads as he builds robustness. Valued at £44m - £57m on £19.5k p/w to 2029, he is a high upside attacking LB who gives you end product straight away in Ligue 1 and beyond.
Tom Bischof - Bayern Munich - DM/MC
Tom Bischof is a high-motor midfield all-rounder who blends box-to-box industry with tidy playmaking. Work Rate 17, Stamina 16 and Determination 16 let him press and cover huge spaces, while Passing 14, Technique 14 and First Touch 14 keep your circulation clean. He offers genuine threat from range with Long Shots 16 and is a set-piece asset thanks to Corners 15 and Free Kicks 15. Mentally he is sharp and aggressive - Aggression 16, Teamwork 16, Vision 14 - so he constantly shows for the ball and links thirds. Pace 10 and Strength 10 cap the raw athleticism, meaning he suits a structured side rather than a track meet, but Natural Fitness 16 ensures he churns out 90s all season. Valued at £28m-£46m on £99k p/w to 2029, he is a sensible buy who raises your intensity and gives you goals from 20 yards.
Lewis Hall - Newcastle - DL/WBL
Lewis Hall is a cultured left back who gives you tidy build-up and reliable end product from wide areas. Crossing 15 with Technique 13 and Passing 13 means his deliveries arrive with purpose, while Composure 15 helps him stay calm when pressed. Defensively he is honest and switched on - Tackling 14, Positioning 12 and Work Rate 15 - so he copes in a back four as well as a more aggressive wing-back role. Physically he has enough to get up and down with Acceleration 14, Pace 14 and Stamina 14, even if aerials are not his game with Jumping Reach 9. The Tries Killer Balls Often trait adds disguised cut-backs and clipped passes when he inverts inside. Valued at £42m-£54m on £50k p/w to 2029, he is a sensible pick for sides that want steady progression from the left without sacrificing defensive responsibility.
Nico Paz - Como - AMC/MC
Nico Paz is a 186 cm left-footer who runs games between the lines - pure silk with bite in the final pass. First Touch 18, Technique 17, Dribbling 17 and Passing 16 with Vision 17 let him receive, roll pressure and slip killer balls on cue. Determination 16 and a Resolute personality mean he’ll trend up fast with minutes, while Places Shots and Plays One-Twos add classy end product to Finishing 13 and Long Shots 14. He’s useful on set pieces too with Free Kicks 15 and Pens 13. The trade-offs are obvious - Marking 5, Positioning 6 and Work Rate 11 - so keep him central as an Advanced Playmaker or Free 10 and protect him with a destroyer. Valued at £64m-£84m on just £15.5k p/w until 2028, he’s a star for Como now and a Champions League creator in short order.
Jobe Bellingham - Borussia Dortmund - MC/AMC/DM
At 191 cm, Jobe Bellingham is a tall, composed technician who links thirds and arrives late to threaten goal. First Touch 15, Passing 15 and Technique 15 with Composure 16 make him calm under pressure, while Determination 16 keeps his level high across the season. He can play as an Attacking Midfielder or deeper as a Midfield Playmaker, using Off the Ball 13 and Finishing 13 to pop up in scoring positions. Defensively he holds his own - Tackling 12, Marking 12 and Positioning 13 - so he fits a balanced 4-3-3 as the connective 8. The athletic profile is more robust than rapid - Pace 11, Stamina 11, Strength 14 - so target endurance and agility training early and teach Arrives Late In Opponents' Area to boost output. Valued at just £19.5m-£25m on £83k p/w to 2030, he’s one of the smartest value plays among elite-club starlets.
Mathys Tel - Tottenham - AML/AMR/ST
Mathys Tel is a straight-line, power wide forward who can also lead the line - think explosive runner with a wicked, curled finish. Acceleration 15, Pace 15 and Agility 14 let him separate on the break, while Dribbling 14 and Technique 14 keep the ball glued when he’s at full tilt. Finishing 13 plus the Curls Ball trait makes him lethal cutting in from the left onto his stronger right - classic Inside Forward stuff. Determination 16, Work Rate 14 and Natural Fitness 15 point to steady year-on-year gains if you give him minutes. The polish points are Composure 11 and Decisions 10, so keep his instructions simple and hammer End Product training. Valued at £39m-£62m on £90k p/w to 2031, he’s a sensible swing for any side that needs pace and direct goals from the flank right now.
Warren Zaïre-Emery - PSG - DM/MC
Warren Zaïre-Emery is the gold standard FM26 midfield core - a Model Citizen engine who handles build-up and the press without fuss. First Touch 15, Passing 15 and Technique 14 keep circulation crisp, while Positioning 15, Tackling 14 and Marking 13 give you real bite out of possession. The mentality is elite for a 19-year-old - Determination 16, Work Rate 16, Teamwork 15 and Vision 14 - so he runs games for 90 minutes. Physically he is balanced and robust with Agility 15, Balance 15 and Stamina 16, which lets him play as a box-to-box 8 or as a Deep-Lying Playmaker at the base. Trait wise he Gets Forward Whenever Possible, so in a 4-3-3 let him surge beyond the ball while a holding 6 stays home. Valued at £66m-£106m on £140k p/w to 2029, he is expensive but a culture setter who raises your floor the day he walks in, with aerial dominance the only real gap.
Leny Yoro - Man Utd - DC
Leny Yoro is a 190 cm thoroughbred centre-back - quick enough for a high line and strong enough to dominate the box. Acceleration 16, Pace 15 and Agility 14 are outrageous for a defender his size, and with Jumping Reach 15 and Heading 15 he wins his duels cleanly. On the ball he’s calm and progressive with First Touch 14, Passing 13 and the Brings Ball Out of Defence trait, so he’ll step in to break lines rather than hoof it. The mentality is there too - Determination 16, Composure 14 and Positioning 14 - which keeps the chaos down when games get wild. He’s not the finished article defensively with Marking 13 and Tackling 13, so pair him with a no-nonsense partner while he sharpens the details. Valued at £49m-£64m on £115k p/w to 2029, he’s a cornerstone signing who can anchor your back line for a decade.
Antonio Nusa - RB Leipzig - AMR/AML
Antonio Nusa is a one-v-one merchant - give him grass and he’ll roast full backs for fun. Dribbling 16 and Technique 15 with Acceleration 16 and Pace 16 make him electric in transition, while his traits - Tries Tricks and Likes To Beat Opponent Repeatedly - tell you exactly what he’s about. First Touch 14 and Crossing 12 mean he can still pick out a runner when teams sit off, but Finishing 10 and Vision 11 show he’s more chaos creator than cold finisher right now. Work on End Product and Composure while keeping his instructions simple - attack the full back, low crosses, far-post cut-backs. Fairly Ambitious with Determination 13 and Stamina 13, he’ll climb with minutes, though Strength 10 and Natural Fitness 10 need gym time. Valued at £52m-£68m on £49.5k p/w to 2029, he’s the pace injection for any side that wants direct threat from either wing.
Yankuba Minteh - Brighton - AMR/AML
Yankuba Minteh is a chaos winger with elite jets - Acceleration 17 and Pace 17 make him uncatchable once he knocks it past you. He’s left footed and direct, best as an Inside Winger on the right where Dribbling 14, Off the Ball 14 and Finishing 14 turn breaks into shots. Composure 13 and First Touch 13 aren’t silky yet, but Work Rate 17 and Stamina 15 mean he’ll press, run and keep stretching the pitch for 90 minutes. Passing 12 and Crossing 11 show he’s more scorer than provider, so keep his instructions simple - attack full back, low crosses, far post runs. Train End Product and Decision making, and hide his weak right foot by keeping him on the right half space. Valued at £46m-£73m on £41k p/w to 2029, he’s a plug and play transition weapon for any high tempo side.
Geovany Quenda - Sporting CP - AMR/AML
Geovany Quenda is a livewire left footer who loves isolations on the right and slicing inside to wreak havoc. Dribbling 16, Technique 15 and Flair 18 combine with Acceleration 16 and Agility 17, so he beats his man and carries ground at pace. Vision 15 and Passing 13 give him enough slip balls and cut-backs, while Corners 13 and Free Kicks 12 add handy set-piece utility. The finishing isn’t there yet - Finishing 8 and Composure 11 - so keep him as an Inside Winger or Wide Forward and train End Product rather than asking him to be your scorer. Work Rate 8 and Strength 9 mean he needs a clear role and protection behind him, plus his right foot is weak, so keep him on the right half space. Valued at £49m-£64m on £60k p/w to 2032, he’s a high-ceiling chaos merchant who can flip tight games once you polish his final action.
Rodrigo Mora - FC Porto - AMC/AML
Rodrigo Mora is a whippet-quick creator who thrives between the lines - pure agility and flair with a punchy final ball. Dribbling 16, First Touch 15 and Technique 15 let him ride challenges, and with Acceleration 15, Agility 17 and Pace 15 he separates in a heartbeat. Vision 16 and the traits Tries Killer Balls Often and Runs With Ball Often make him a nightmare as a free 10 or second striker, while Finishing 13 and Long Shots 12 hint at double-digit goals with minutes. He’s only 168 cm with Strength 5 and Stamina 12, so protect him with a destroyer behind and work on gym time and endurance. Spirited with Determination 14 and Flair 17, he develops fast if you give him responsibility. Valued at £60m-£74m on £18.5k p/w to 2030, he’s a high-upside talisman for Porto or a savvy raid for clubs chasing a slippery No 10.
Sverre Nypan - Middlesbrough - AMC/MC
Sverre Nypan is a two-footed schemer who glides into pockets and links play with mature timing. First Touch 13, Passing 13 and Technique 13 pair nicely with Vision 14 and Flair 16, so he slips runners or drives at the back line when space opens. The movement package is strong for a teen - Runs With Ball Through Centre, Moves Into Channels and Arrives Late In Opponents' Area - while Tries Killer Balls Often gives you punch in the final third. Determination 16 and a Professional personality suggest steady growth, though Composure 10, Decisions 10 and Stamina 11 mean you should manage minutes and hammer End Product/Decision-making early. At 182 cm he’s tidy rather than dominant physically (Strength 9), so partner him with a ball-winner and let him float between lines. Valued at £21m-£26m on £40k p/w to 2030, he’s a clever, affordable playmaker who will repay trust by season two.
Badredine Bouanani - VfB Stuttgart - AMR/AMRC
Badredine Bouanani is a left-footed right winger who mixes sharp ball-carrying with swagger and invention. Dribbling 15, Technique 15 and First Touch 14 let him take on full backs, while Flair 17 and the traits Uses Outside Of Foot and Cuts Inside From Right Wing make his final action hard to read. He has pop off the mark with Acceleration 15, Agility 16 and Pace 14, and he adds set-piece utility with Free Kicks 13, Corners 12 and Pens 12. Play him as an Inside Winger or Inside Forward on AMR and keep instructions simple - receive to feet, drive inside, combine and shoot or slip the 9. The polish jobs are end product and physicality - Finishing 10, Strength 10 and Stamina 12 - so focus training on End Product and add gym work. Valued at £29m-£47m on £33k p/w to 2030, he is a smart buy for clubs wanting a creative wide threat who can win you tight games.
Youssoufa Moukoko - FC København - ST
Youssoufa Moukoko is a lively, two-footed striker who thrives attacking the space between centre-backs and full backs. With Acceleration 14, Pace 14 and Agility 15 he bursts beyond the line, while Dribbling 14, First Touch 14 and Technique 14 keep the ball under control at speed. Finishing 13 with the Places Shots trait means he’s more about clever placement than raw power, and Off the Ball 13 helps him find those near-post lanes. He’s best as a Channel Forward or Poacher in a 4-2-3-1 - keep the service quick and low and let him run across the front of defenders. Composure 11 and Heading 11 cap him aerially, so work on composure and strength and avoid hopeful crosses. Valued at £18.5m - £23m on £16k p/w to 2030, he’s a savvy buy for clubs wanting a mobile No 9 who can grow into a 15+ goal striker.
Facundo Buonanotte - Chelsea - AMC/AMR/MC
Facundo Buonanotte is a nimble left footer who thrives between the lines - quick touches, sharp carries and disguised through balls. Dribbling 15, First Touch 14 and Technique 14 help him wriggle away from pressure, while Passing 14, Vision 14 and Flair 14 give you consistent final-third supply. He carries purposefully with Acceleration 14 and the traits Runs With Ball Through Centre and Tries To Play Way Out Of Trouble, so keep him on the half turn and let him combine. Finishing 13 and Long Shots 14 mean he’ll chip in with goals if you free him as an Advanced Playmaker or roaming 10. The caveats - Composure 12, Decisions 11 and Strength 10 - so keep instructions simple and pair him with a ball-winner. Valued at £40m-£64m on £35k p/w to 2028, he’s a smart pick for sides that want a slippery creator who can speed up your attacks without hogging the ball.
Michael Kayode - Brentford - DR/WBR
Michael Kayode is a modern up-and-down right back who brings pace, bite and a nasty long throw to your arsenal. Acceleration 15, Pace 15 and Agility 14 get him into advanced zones quickly, while Tackling 14, Marking 12 and Positioning 13 keep him trustworthy in defensive duels. On the ball he is tidy rather than flashy - Crossing 13, Passing 13 and Technique 13 - so use him as a Wing-Back on support to hit early deliveries and recycle play. Determination 15, Work Rate 15 and Teamwork 14 scream reliability over 90 minutes, and his Spirited personality means he develops well with minutes. The secret weapon is Long Throws 19 plus the Possesses Long Flat Throw trait - set pieces from the right become corners. Valued at £32m-£51m on £50k p/w to 2030, he is a plug-and-play upgrade for sides that want athletic width without sacrificing defensive standards.
Archie Gray - Tottenham - MC/DM/DR
Archie Gray is a coach’s dream - a tidy, intelligent midfielder who can also deputise at right back without fuss. Passing 14, Technique 15 and First Touch 13 keep your build-up clean, while Composure 15 and Decisions 14 mean he rarely forces the risky ball. Determination 15, Teamwork 15 and Work Rate 14 give you honest graft and consistency over 90 minutes, and Leadership 10 hints at future armband material. Physically he is balanced rather than explosive - Pace 14, Stamina 15 and Balance 14 - so he suits a possession side that values positioning over chaos. Use him as a Midfield Playmaker on support or a deeper 6 who screens and circulates, with the bonus that he can cover DR in injury crunches. Valued at £43m-£56m on £75k p/w to 2030, he is a reliable glue player who raises your floor the second he starts.
Kota Takai - Tottenham U21 - DC
Kota Takai is a 192 cm centre-back built for duels in the box - big frame, tidy on the ball and calm under pressure. With Marking 13, Tackling 14 and Positioning 14 plus Anticipation 15 and Composure 13, he reads danger early and deals with it without drama. In the air he’s solid - Jumping Reach 14 and Heading 14 - and his Passing 13 and First Touch 12 mean he can play as a Ball-Playing CB rather than a row Z merchant. The caveat - he’s no sprinter with Acceleration 10 and Pace 10, so keep the line sensible or pair him with a quicker partner. Fairly Determined with Determination 15 and Work Rate 14, he’ll climb quickly once he gets senior minutes. Valued at £4.7m-£7.6m on £25k p/w to 2030, he’s a smart, low-cost project for teams that defend a bit deeper and want composure when they win it back.
Jack Hinshelwood - Brighton - MC/DM/DR
Jack Hinshelwood is a plug-and-play system midfielder who reads the game, keeps the ball moving and turns up with well-timed runs. First Touch 14, Passing 13, Technique 13 and Decisions 14 give you clean circulation, while Tackling 14, Positioning 13 and Work Rate 14 make him reliable out of possession. He’s got the engine too - Pace 13 and Stamina 15 - and the Arrives Late In Opponents' Area trait adds sneaky box entries that pair nicely with Finishing 11. Use him as a Central Midfielder on support or as a DM on support in a 4-3-3, with the bonus that he can cover at right back without drama. He’s not an overlap-and-cross full back - Dribbling 9 and Crossing 9 show his lane is central rather than the touchline - so keep his role tidy and positional. Valued at £32m-£42m on £30k p/w to 2028, he raises your floor immediately through intelligence and versatility.
Evan Ferguson - Roma - ST
Evan Ferguson is a classic centre forward with modern mobility - strong, tidy and ruthless when the ball drops in the box. Finishing 14, First Touch 14 and Technique 14 keep his shots clean, while Heading 14 and Jumping Reach 15 make him a constant set-piece threat. He moves well for a big lad too - Pace 16, Acceleration 14 and Off the Ball 14 let him dart across centre-backs rather than wait for service. Composure 12 is decent rather than elite, but his Strength 14 and Spirited mentality mean he keeps offering and bullying defenders anyway. Play him as a CF on support or a Poacher in a 4-2-3-1, feed low crosses and near-post runs, and work on composure and link play to unlock a 15+ goal season. Valued at £33m-£52m on £50k p/w to 2029, he is a sensible, high-upside No 9 for sides that want variety - he can score, wall-pass or attack the back stick.
Lucas Bergvall - Tottenham - MC/AMC
Lucas Bergvall is silk-and-steel in one package - 186 cm, strong (Strength 15) and deceptively quick off the mark, but with velvet feet. First Touch 17, Passing 18 and Technique 17 plus Composure 16 and Vision 16 make him a top-tier distributor who can also carry through the centre (trait - Runs With Ball Through Centre). He’s best as an Advanced Playmaker/CM(s) No 8 who links thirds and dictates tempo, with bonus set-piece value from Corners 16 and Free Kicks 16. Don’t ask him to be your destroyer - Tackling 7 and Finishing/Crossing 8 show his game is craft, not crunch or end-product. Sharpen Decisions (12) and off-ball pressing habits to unlock a complete midfield hub. Valued at £42m-£55m and on £50k p/w to 2031, he’s a culture-setting “Model Citizen” who raises your floor and ceiling from day one.
Kanta Doi - FC Tokyo - DC/DM
Kanta Doi is a rugged, determined centre-back who reads danger early and wins his duels without fuss. With Determination 20, Strength 16 and Heading 15 he relishes contact, while Anticipation 14, Positioning 14, Marking 13 and Tackling 15 make him dependable in a compact block. He’s composed enough to build from the back - Composure 15, Passing 13, Technique 12 - but don’t ask him to defend huge spaces given only 11 for Acceleration and Pace. Play him as a Ball-Playing CB on a slightly deeper line or as a no-nonsense stopper beside a quicker partner; he can also cover as a destroyer DM when you need protection in front of the back four. At £300k - £3m and on a tiny wage, he’s a value pick with proper captain’s habits - polish his pace and short passing and you’ve got a reliable first-teamer for years.
Dennis Seimen - SC Paderborn (loan from Stuttgart) - GK
Dennis Seimen is a modern, proactive keeper with the tools to play from the back and ignite counters. Reflexes 15, One-on-Ones 14 and Agility 13 give you solid shot-stopping, while Aerial Reach 13 and Jumping Reach 16 help him command balls into the six-yard box. On the ball he’s tidy - First Touch 12, Passing 12, Kicking 13 - and his Throwing 16 plus the “Uses Long Throw To Start Counter Attacks” trait makes him great for fast breaks. He’s keen to sweep (Rushing Out 16) and has a Driven mentality with Determination 18 and Leadership 13, but Decisions 11 and Pace/Acceleration 8 mean you don’t want an ultra-high line behind chaos. Use him as a Sweeper Keeper (support) in a mid-to-high block or a Ball-Playing GK in a balanced 4-2-3-1, and coach decision-making and aerial presence to round him off. Valued at £200k-£7.4m on £13.25k p/w to 2029, he’s a cost-efficient No 1 with clear upside for possession sides who break quickly.
Can Uzun – Eintracht Frankfurt – AMC/AML
Silky and incisive, Uzun is a classic No.10 who links play and finishes moves. First Touch 17, Technique 17 and Dribbling 16 let him operate in tight pockets, while Finishing 15 and Long Shots 16 add goals from the edge. Passing 14 and Flair 17 pair perfectly with his traits — “Plays One-Twos”, “Places Shots”, “Tries Tricks” and “Runs With Ball Often” — so expect quick give-and-goes and guided efforts into the corners. Composure/Decisions 13 are sound, but Pace 10 and Strength 8 limit his ability to burst away or ride challenges. Use him as an Attacking Midfielder (S/A) or inverted from the left on his very strong right foot, with runners around him to stretch the pitch. Train acceleration and off-the-ball to push him towards elite output.
Guillaume Restes – Toulouse FC – GK
Composed and tidy, Restes profiles as a modern keeper who’s comfortable in possession without being overly flashy. Reflexes 15 and One-on-Ones 14 give him reliable shot-stopping, while Agility 14 and Positioning 13 help him deal with close-range scrambles. He’s secure with the ball (First Touch/Passing/Kicking all 12) and a Resolute personality with Determination 16 is a nice marker for development. The air is the next step: Aerial Reach and Command of Area at 11 plus Handling 12 mean you’ll want extra work on crosses if you play a high line. Use him as a Sweeper Keeper (support) in a possession side or a Ball-Playing GK in a mid-block, and keep distribution to the left – his right foot is weak. Valued at £13.5–17.5m on £10.75k p/w to 2028, he’s a cost-effective No 1 with scope to grow.
Estêvão – Chelsea – AM (R)
Lightning off the mark and razor-sharp on the ball, Estêvão looks tailor-made for the right flank cutting in on his stronger left. Dribbling 16, Technique 15 and First Touch 14, allied to Acceleration 16 and Agility 17, make him a one-v-one menace who “Tries Tricks” and “Runs With Ball Often”. He’s tidy in the final action too – Crossing/Finishing 13 and Passing 14 – with Flair 16 ensuring defenders can’t set their feet. The next step is decision-making and end product under pressure (Decisions 10, Composure 11), plus a bit of physical beef (Strength 6, Stamina 11). Use him as an Inverted Winger or Inside Forward on the right in a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1, pair with an overlapping full-back, and give him licence to isolate full-backs. At £46–59m and £70k p/w to 2030, he’s a high-ceiling wide threat who can become a top creator and scorer with targeted work on choices and finishing.
Luka Vušković – Hamburger SV (loan from Tottenham) – DC
Standing at 193cm with Jumping Reach 16 and Strength 15, Vušković is already a serious presence in both boxes. He reads it well for his age (Anticipation 12, Concentration 13, Determination 17) and is tidy on the deck – First Touch/Passing/Technique all 12 – with the “Brings Ball Out of Defence” trait hinting at ball-playing upside. Core defensive tools are steady (Heading 14, Marking 12, Tackling 12, Positioning 13) and his Bravery 16 helps him attack duels. The one watch-out is mobility: Acceleration 11 and Agility 9 suggest you don’t want him patrolling acres behind a very high line. Use him as a Ball-Playing Centre-Back (defend) in a compact back four, and work on agility and 1v1 defending to round off a high-ceiling stopper valued at £30–39m.
Vitor Roque – Palmeiras – ST/AM (RL)
Lightning off the shoulder with Acceleration/Pace 15 and Work Rate 16, Vitor Roque is built for darting runs in behind. His trait trio – Gets Into Opposition Area, Moves Into Channels and Likes To Beat the Offside Trap – marries nicely with Off the Ball 14 and Anticipation 13, making him a constant menace across the front line. Finishing 14 and Technique 14 are already tidy, while Aggression 17 and Stamina 15 mean he’ll press aggressively for 90 minutes. He’s not one for the air (Jumping Reach 7, Heading 12), so keep the service on the floor and into space rather than to his head. Use him as an Advanced Forward or Pressing Forward in a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1, and coach composure/decision-making to sharpen his end product. Valued at £42–55m and on £16k p/w, he’s a high-energy line-leader with real upside.
Franco Mastantuono – Real Madrid U19 – AM (RC)
Mastantuono is an outrageous 17-year-old technician: Dribbling 17, Technique 16 and First Touch 14 make him a natural ball-carrier between the lines. With a very strong left foot, Pace 14 and traits for Plays One-Twos and Shoots From Distance, he looks tailor-made for an inverted role from the right where he can drive inside and let fly. Vision 14 and Passing 13 combine with Tries Long Range Free Kicks and set-piece numbers (FKs 16, Corners 13) to give you end-product both in play and dead balls. He’s slight (Strength 8) and Decision-making at 10 can rush him in crowded areas, so plan for physical development and focused mentorship. Deploy as an Inside Forward/Advanced Playmaker on the right in a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1 and give him licence to roam and exchange quick combinations. A premium-valued wonderkid (£74–96m), but one with genuine star power if nurtured carefully.
Kosta Nedeljković – RB Leipzig (loan from Aston Villa) – RB/WB (R)
A modern, up-and-down right-back with serious legs: Pace 17 and Acceleration 15 make him electric on the overlap, while Stamina 14 and Work Rate 15 keep him bombing on for 90 minutes. Defensively he’s steady – Marking 12 and Tackling 12 – and a Fairly Determined mentality with Determination 16 means he competes well in duels despite Heading 8. On the ball he’s tidy rather than flashy (Crossing/Dribbling 12, Passing 11, Technique 11) so don’t expect tons of final-third output yet, especially with Finishing 6. Use him as a Wing-Back (support/attack) in a 4-3-3 or as a wide outlet in a back three, where his recovery pace covers a high line. Development focus: crossing and decision-making in the final third, plus a bit of aerial work to round him out.
Mario Stroeykens – Anderlecht – AM (C)
Silky between the lines and clever in tight spaces, Stroeykens profiles as a classic No.10 who links play and slips runners through. First Touch 14, Passing 14 and Technique 14, backed by Vision 14 and Flair 14, give you crisp combinations, while Composure 13 and Decisions 12 keep him tidy under pressure. His trait stack – Plays One-Twos, Tries to Play Way Out of Trouble, Tries Long Range Passes, Likes Ball Played Into Feet and Places Shots – screams give-and-go football and threaded through-balls. Physically he’s adequate rather than explosive (Acceleration/Pace 12, Stamina 11), and Tackling 9 means you won’t want him doing much dog work. Use him as an Advanced Playmaker (support) in a 4-2-3-1/4-3-3, ask him to roam and play more risky passes, and pair with a runner from midfield to attack his through-balls. At £8–9.8m on £5.75k p/w to 2028, he’s a value creator who’ll blossom with a touch more end product and conditioning.
Assane Diao – Como – AM (L/R), ST
Direct, rapid and ruthless in the box, Assane Diao looks built for modern wide-forward work. With Acceleration 17 and Pace 15 he explodes past full-backs, and the Knocks Ball Past Opponent trait plays perfectly into that straight-line burst. He’s not just a runner, either: Finishing 15, First Touch 13 and Technique 13 give him tidy end product, while Off the Ball 16 and Composure 15 help him arrive in scoring positions and finish calmly. Passing 12 and Decisions 11 hint there’s still refinement needed with his final choice, but the raw tools are there. Use him as an Inside Forward (attack) from the left or a Wide Forward on the right in a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1, and encourage early runs in behind. Valued at £62–81m on £15.5k p/w to 2029, he’s a high-ceiling transition threat who can become a 15-plus goals a season winger with sharper shot selection.
Roony Bardghji – Barcelona – M/AM (R)
Silky on the half-turn and happy to carry danger inside, Bardghji profiles as a classic right-sider cutting in on his stronger left. Dribbling 14, Technique 15 and First Touch 14 combine with Agility 15 to make him a slippery one-v-one threat, while Finishing 13, Passing 14 and Long Shots 14 play neatly into his traits – Runs With Ball Often, Plays One-Twos, Cuts Inside From Right Wing and Shoots From Distance. He’s got a creative streak too: Flair 15 and Corners 13/free-kicks 11 add variety to his delivery, with Composure 13 and Off the Ball 13 keeping him tidy in the final third. Areas to polish are physical punch and sustained intensity (Strength 8, Stamina 12) plus sharpening decision-making to speed up end product (Decisions 12). Use him as an Inverted Winger or Inside Forward from the right in a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1 with an overlapping full-back to open the lane inside. Valued at £27–43m on £15k p/w to 2029, he’s a high-upside wide creator who can grow into a consistent scorer with targeted work on choices and power.
Final Thoughts
That’s our fifty. From ready-made starters to raw projects who’ll explode with the right handling, FM26 is stacked with wonderkids this year. This list isn’t a prophecy—it’s a toolbox. Pick the profiles that fit your game model, then give them the pathway to thrive: minutes, mentoring, and the right role on the pitch.
Quick Refresher Before You Dive In
- Plan the pathway: Set an Individual Training Focus, add Trait plans, and line up loans that match your tactics.
- Protect their minutes: 25–35 starts beats 55 stop-start cameos. Use cups and international breaks smartly.
- Mentor wisely: Personality upgrades are free boosts—pair model pros with high-ceiling teens early.
- Coach the details: Decisions, Composure, and Off the Ball turn flair into consistent output.
- Be patient: Development isn’t linear. Form dips are normal—stick to the plan.
We’ve mixed premium signings with value picks so every save—title chaser or rebuild—has a route to a home-grown core. If we’ve missed your favourite gem, drop it in the comments and tell us how you used them.
Want more? Shout if you’d like shortlists by position, budgets, or a “ready to start in year one” XI. If this helped, share it with a mate, bookmark for your next save, and keep an eye out for our follow-ups: positional shortlists, development schedules, and plug-and-play roles for the best of the bunch.
Happy scouting—enjoy watching your academy take over the world.
