The highly anticipated Team of the Year (TOTY) Defenders are here in FC 25! Over the past week, we’ve seen attackers and midfielders hit the packs, but now it’s time for the most affordable and, often, most packable TOTY cards to join the mix. Alongside the defenders, a new set of TOTY Icons is set to make waves in Ultimate Team. In this guide, we’ll break down today’s TOTY content, provide tips for grinding upgrade packs efficiently, and share updates on key SBCs, Evolutions, and market trends. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to dominate Team of the Year!
Team of the Year Defenders: What to Expect
The TOTY Defenders, historically the easiest TOTY cards to pack, are here, and this year’s squad is stacked with elite options for your backline. The team includes:
- Grimaldo: A versatile left-back with strong attacking stats, but his meta-viability as a true left-back may be in question. Estimated price: ~1.5M coins.
- Virgil van Dijk (VVD): A perennial TOTY favorite, VVD boasts elite defensive stats and physicality. Last year, he hit 15M coins at his peak—this year, expect him to settle around 7-8M coins.
- Saliba: A French center-back with incredible pace, defending, and Anticipate Plus. His price could rival VVD, landing around 4.5-5M coins.
- Carvajal: A standout right-back option with solid playstyle boosts like Jockey and Long Ball. Expect him to land between 1.7-2M coins.
- Emiliano Martínez: As the goalkeeper of the TOTY squad, Martínez is likely to be the most packable card, sitting at around 300K coins.
The TOTY Defenders will likely be overshadowed by attackers and midfielders, but their affordability makes them a valuable addition to any team.
Team of the Year Cup: Evolution Grinds and Changes
One of the standout features of this year’s TOTY event is the Team of the Year Cup, offering unique rewards and Evolution opportunities. However, players have raised concerns about the grind. The objectives require 15 wins and 15 matches within a short timeframe of just three days, which feels excessive even in Golden Goal mode.
Notably, EA made a significant adjustment to the Score in Eight objective, reducing the requirement from two goals per match to one, making it much more manageable in Golden Goal matches. While this change is a win for the community, the limited timeframe still poses a challenge. EA should consider extending the event for another week to allow more players to complete it.
Evolution Paths: Customizing Your Center-Back
The TOTY Cup includes two key Evolutions for building a TOTY-themed center-back:
- Passing Boost Evo: Adds playstyles like Pinged Pass Plus and boosts passing stats.
- Shooting Boost Evo: Offers a weak-foot upgrade, Power Shot, and improvements to shooting stats.
These join the previously released Pace, Dribbling, and Defense/Physical Evos, creating a full set of six Evolutions. With only a few days left to complete these, players must decide which path to take for their custom-built center-back. For those still undecided, EA should clarify the best long-term use of these Evolutions as more content unfolds.
Premium Upgrade Packs: How to Grind Efficiently
The Premium League Upgrade Packs for TOTY are live, featuring league-specific packs for Premier League and La Liga. These packs require 11 rare gold cards, and with the full TOTY dropping soon, now is the perfect time to stockpile these upgrades.
Best Grinding Method:
- Start with Premium Upgrades: Use rare golds to build league-specific premium packs. Focus on leagues with a higher ratio of TOTY cards to rare golds, such as La Liga (better odds) or Premier League (higher value).
- Recycle Commons into 75+ Player Picks: Use the common golds you pack to complete the 75+ Player Picks, which have been yielding consistent fodder (82+ rated cards and In-Forms).
- Rinse and Repeat: Use duplicate rares from the Premium Upgrades to build more packs. If you’re low on rares, consider buying them from the market, as prices are still affordable (~650 coins).
By following this loop, you’ll maximize your chance of packing a TOTY card while also generating fodder for SBCs.
SBC Updates: Bale and Other Key Content
The FIFA community is eagerly awaiting the release of a Gareth Bale TOTY Icon SBC, which was leaked earlier. EA could surprise us by dropping this fan-favorite card today, similar to how they released standout SBCs during TOTY Defenders last year.
Other notable SBCs include:
- Selma Bacha TOTY Honorable Mentions SBC: A solid card with strong stats, but priced at 530K coins, it’s a 50/50 decision for most players. It’s best to evaluate your squad’s needs before completing her SBC.
- Daily TOTY Packs: EA could release new upgrade packs, such as 85+ or 86+ x2 packs, to support the TOTY grind. Keep an eye out for additional crafting opportunities.
For more market tips follow TheFutAccountant on YouTube.
TOTY Icons and Market Impact
New TOTY Icons joining the game today include Roberto Carlos, Cannavaro, and Miyama, among others. These cards bring unique playstyles and meta upgrades, but their long-term value remains uncertain. With more TOTY Icons expected to return to packs later this week, their prices could fluctuate. If you’re eyeing TOTY Icons like Cafu or Puskás, consider waiting until they’re re-released during the full TOTY drop.
Market Trends and Investment Tips
The current market is relatively stagnant, with many players focused on crafting upgrade packs. High-tier fodder prices (90+ rated cards) have increased slightly, reaching ~19K coins, but lower-tier fodder remains stable. Here’s how to navigate the market:
- Invest in Rares: Stock up on rare golds while prices are low. Once the full TOTY is out, demand will spike as players grind upgrade packs.
- Avoid Team of the Weeks: Prices are not moving significantly, and most In-Forms are being supplied through player picks and packs.
- Monitor TOTY Card Prices: TOTY players like Jude Bellingham and Mo Salah have remained stable, but prices could dip before the full release. Watch for potential panic selling today or tomorrow before buying.
Don’t Miss the Grind
With TOTY Defenders now in packs, it’s the perfect time to start crafting upgrade packs and building toward a TOTY squad. Whether you’re grinding the Team of the Year Cup, completing Evolutions, or investing in fodder, there are plenty of opportunities to enhance your team.
Stay tuned for potential surprises today, including new SBCs or TOTY Icons. If you want to follow the source video that inspired this breakdown, check it out here. Good luck, and happy grinding!
Frequently Asked Questions about TOTY Defenders
What are Team of the Year Defenders in FC 25?
Team of the Year Defenders are special high-rated cards in FC 25, featuring elite defenders like Virgil van Dijk and Saliba. These cards are known for their incredible stats and are among the easiest TOTY cards to pack.
Why are TOTY Defenders cheaper than attackers and midfielders?
Defenders typically have less demand compared to attackers and midfielders, making them more affordable in the transfer market. Additionally, goalkeepers, like Emiliano Martínez, are often the most packable TOTY cards.
How do I complete the Team of the Year Cup objectives?
The TOTY Cup requires 15 matches and 15 wins. Use Golden Goal mode to speed up the process. EA recently reduced the ‘Score in Eight’ requirement to just one goal per match, making it easier to complete.
What is the best method to grind upgrade packs during TOTY?
Start with Premium League Upgrade Packs using rare gold cards. Recycle common golds into 75+ Player Picks for fodder, and use duplicates to craft more upgrade packs. Focus on La Liga and Premier League for better odds.
Are Gareth Bale and other TOTY Icons coming as SBCs?
Yes, Gareth Bale TOTY Icon is expected as an SBC, along with other TOTY Icons. EA may surprise players with additional content, so stay tuned for updates.
Should I invest in rare golds for upgrade packs?
Yes, rare golds are currently affordable at 600-650 coins. Stocking up now will save you coins as demand increases when the full TOTY is in packs.
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