Julián Álvarez’s 88-rated Ratings Reload card in FC 26 Ultimate Team is already making waves. Sitting at around 777,000 coins, this version is a luxury option that only a few can afford early in the game cycle, but for those who can, it offers one of the most complete technical forwards in FC 26 so far.
With his 
Finesse Shot+ Playstyle defining his game, Álvarez becomes a precision-based attacker capable of bending the ball around goalkeepers with effortless accuracy. For players who focus on timed finishing and smart positioning instead of pure pace, this is one of the most dangerous strikers available right now.
Playstyles that define Alvarez in FC 26
Álvarez’s Playstyle+ is Finesse Shot+, supported by Dead Ball, First Touch, and Press Proven. Finesse Shot+ drastically improves the curve, accuracy, and power of his curling shots, letting him score from the edge of the box with consistency that few other players can match right now.
His other playstyles complement his finesse ability well. First Touch keeps his close control tidy, and Press Proven helps him maintain possession when pressed by defenders. Dead Ball gives him added precision from free kicks, though those are still rare in Ultimate Team gameplay. Together, they make him a complete forward for players who prefer smart movement and accurate finishing over raw physicality.
Hunter or Engine on Alvarez
The chemistry style decision depends on your playstyle. If you rely on counters and quick transitions, Hunter is ideal. It boosts his 87 acceleration and 86 sprint speed into elite territory and enhances his already excellent 89 finishing and 89 shot power.
If you prefer patient buildup and close dribbling, Engine is the better choice. It increases his balance, agility, and passing, giving him a smoother, more controlled feel. Since Álvarez already has elite shooting, Engine makes him one of the best technical strikers in the early FC 26 meta.
How Alvarez performs in-game
On the pitch, Álvarez feels responsive and clinical. Standing at 5’7” with the Explosive acceleration type, he moves like a true finesse specialist. His short stature helps with fast turning and quick release shots, allowing him to create angles that taller forwards struggle to find.
Use him to cut in from central positions or receive passes just outside the 18-yard box. From there, one left-stick nudge and a green-timed finesse will usually end up in the back of the net. His Finesse Shot+ gives him top-tier accuracy from both feet, and even off-balance shots have a chance of curling past goalkeepers.
Comparison to other early FC 26 forwards
At this stage of FC 26, few strikers combine agility, finishing, and technical quality like Álvarez. Compared to pace-driven options such as Darwin Núñez or Isak, Álvarez feels far more composed and consistent when it comes to precision finishing.
He is not a brute-force striker and will not bully defenders physically, but his smooth ball control (89) and finesse accuracy make him lethal in tight matches. Players who master green-timed shots will immediately notice how often he converts half chances into goals.
Attacking AI and positioning
With Advanced Forward++, Álvarez intelligently positions himself between center backs, making curved runs into open lanes. While FC 26’s attacking AI still needs improvement, Álvarez remains more reliable than most when it comes to timing runs for through balls and one-twos.
To maximize his movement, use manual L1/LB triggers and early passes. Once in behind, his acceleration and composure (87) make finishing straightforward.
Best roles, instructions and formations for Alvarez
Álvarez works best as a striker in 4-2-3-1, 4-3-2-1, or 4-1-2-1-2 narrow systems. Set his instructions to:
- Stay Central
- Get In Behind
- Mixed Attack if you prefer flexibility in positioning
You can also experiment with him as a second striker in a two-forward setup, where his link-up play and finesse ability create openings for a target man partner.
Tactics to bring out his best
In a 4-3-2-1, your wide forwards should cut inside to leave Alvarez space to operate. Keep your buildup balanced and use direct passing so he can receive clean passes into feet or space.
In 4-2-3-1, pair him with a free-roaming CAM who delivers quick passes into his path. Alvarez excels when receiving the ball near the box, facing the goal, and with just enough room to curl a shot.
Shooting tips and scoring consistency
- Use small left-stick movements before shooting to align his body
- Green-time your finesse for maximum accuracy and power
- Finesse across the keeper from the inside-right channel
- If blocked, go near-post with a driven strike
- His weak foot is reliable for finesse shots as well
- Use Press Proven to shield and set up shooting space
Is Alvarez worth 777K?
At 777,000 coins, Álvarez is a premium choice, but his performance justifies the price for players who emphasize finesse-based finishing and control. He is not for everyone since casual players might find better value in cheaper options, but if you are a precise finisher or competitive FUT Champs player, he delivers elite consistency.
He is fast, agile, and clinical, and in the early FC 26 cycle, that makes him one of the most reliable strikers available.
FAQs about Alvarez FC 26 Ratings Reload
What makes this Alvarez special?
His Finesse Shot+ Playstyle+ makes him one of the most consistent finishers in FC 26.
Is he worth the 777K price tag?
Yes, if you play with finesse-based attacks and time your finishes well.
Which chemistry style is best?
Hunter for pace, Engine for tighter control and passing.
Can Alvarez play CAM?
He can, but striker or second striker positions suit him best.
How good is his weak foot?
Very dependable with finesse shots thanks to Finesse Shot+.
