EA SPORTS FC 25 has introduced a brand-new Evolution called “The Lion Mentality,” designed to transform strikers into elite attackers by boosting key stats like shooting, dribbling, and physicality, while adding powerful PlayStyle+ traits. Headlined by a 91-rated Retegui, this evolution is perfect for upgrading underused STs into meta-ready forwards during the TOTS season.

EA FC 25 Drops “The Lion Mentality” Evolution: Retegui Headlines the Latest ST Upgrade

EA SPORTS FC 25 has added a brand-new evolution path for Ultimate Team, and this one’s a game-changer for strikers. Titled “The Lion Mentality”, this evolution caters exclusively to STs and supercharges their offensive capabilities — adding new PlayStyles, boosting key stats, and introducing visual upgrades for a true end-game feel.

The first standout example of this upgrade is Retegui, whose card now skyrockets to a 91 overall, transforming him into a lethal finisher with elite traits. Whether you’re grinding Rivals, Champs, or simply love tweaking your team with custom cards, this evolution is a must-watch.

What Is “The Lion Mentality” Evolution in FC 25?

The Lion Mentality is a new striker-focused evolution that turns solid attackers into powerful, endgame-level threats by enhancing shooting, dribbling, physicality, and key PlayStyles.

Evolution Requirements:

  • Overall Rating (Max): 90
  • Pace (Max): 85
  • Dribbling (Max): 84
  • Shooting (Max): 90
  • Position: ST only
  • Max PlayStyles: 2
  • Total PlayStyles Allowed: 9

This evolution is unlockable in 13 days and expires in 20 days, so players need to act quickly to take full advantage.

Retegui: The Face of the New Evolution

Retegui is the highlighted player example for this evolution, showcasing just how impactful it can be. Here’s what his card looks like post-upgrade:

Retegui (91 ST) – Key Stats After The Lion Mentality Evolution

  • Pace: 94
  • Shooting: 98
  • Passing: 80
  • Dribbling: 90
  • Defense: 48
  • Physical: 92

New PlayStyles Added:

  • Power Shot
  • Trickster
  • First Touch Control

New PlayStyle+ Added:

  • Quick Step+
  • Acrobatic+
  • Low Driven Shot+

Bonus Upgrades:

  • +12 Shooting (to 94)
  • +10 Physicality
  • +10 Pace
  • +5 Overall
  • +6 Ball Control
  • +4 Aggression (now 87)
  • +4 Skill Moves (huge boost for 3* or 4* strikers)
  • +2 Weak Foot
  • +5 Dribbling
  • +5 Passing
  • Cosmetic upgrade included (TOTS-themed visual)

Evolution Objective Summary

To evolve a striker with “The Lion Mentality,” players must complete the following progression objectives using the selected ST card:

Gameplay Tasks (example, not yet confirmed):

  • Score 5 goals with the selected player in Squad Battles (Min. Semi-Pro)
  • Assist 3 goals with through balls
  • Win 3 matches with the evolved player in your starting XI
  • Score 3 finesse goals with the player in Rivals or Champs

Once complete, the card receives a TOTS Evolution rarity tag, massive stat boosts, new skill moves, and high-tier PlayStyle attributes.

Who Should You Use in The Lion Mentality Evolution?

Aside from Retegui, there are numerous striker cards that may qualify for this evolution and benefit greatly from it. The ideal candidate would be a 90-rated or under ST with good shooting base stats but lacking elite dribbling or physicality.

Best Player Archetypes for This Evolution:

  • Under-the-radar TOTS strikers
  • Flashback/Objective STs
  • Special cards lacking PlayStyle+

Examples (check eligibility in-game):

  • TOTS Jonathan David
  • Flashback Iago Aspas
  • Centurions Lacazette
  • Future Stars Ferguson

Why This Evolution Matters in FC 25

EA has made evolutions central to squad building in FC 25, and “The Lion Mentality” is one of the strongest paths for attackers so far. Here’s why:

Top Benefits:

  • Gives outdated ST cards a new life
  • Adds top-tier traits without needing expensive SBCs or packs
  • Makes your striker instantly meta with 90+ shooting and pace
  • Upgrades visual aesthetic with a TOTS-inspired card look

How to Unlock “The Lion Mentality” Evolution

Costs:

  • 25,000 Coins OR
  • 150 FC Points

Time Limit:

  • Unlocks in: 13 days
  • Expires in: 20 days

Make sure to evolve your card before the time limit ends, as this evolution is not repeatable and is available only once per account (at least for now).

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Strategy Tips: Maximizing The Lion Mentality Evolution

  • Choose a striker with high finishing and 3–4 weak foot* to enhance even further with this evolution.
  • Pair with a PlayStyle chem style like Finisher or Hawk for physical and shooting dominance.
  • Use in 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2 where strikers are central to chance creation and shot conversion.

FAQs on The Lion Mentality Evolution in FC 25:

What is The Lion Mentality Evolution in FC 25?

A striker-focused Evolution that boosts shooting, dribbling, physicality, and unlocks new PlayStyle+ traits.

Who is eligible for The Lion Mentality Evolution?

Strikers rated 90 or below, with max 85 pace, 84 dribbling, and no more than 2 PlayStyles.

How much does it cost to complete?

25,000 coins or 150 FC Points.

What player was featured in this Evolution?

Retegui, who upgrades to a 91-rated ST with powerful stats and traits.

What are the key trait additions?

Power Shot, Trickster, First Touch Control, Quick Step+, Acrobatic+, and Low Driven Shot+.