EA may not have waited for Christmas, but FC 26 players have already received a gift that feels almost too good to be true. A brand new Marcus Llorente card is available right now through objectives and it is already being talked about as one of the most overpowered free cards of the entire year.
Marcus Llorente has a long history of dominating Ultimate Team metas and this new FC 26 version looks ready to do exactly the same. The biggest difference this time is accessibility. Every single player can unlock him with minimal effort, which is why this card matters far beyond just being another strong addition.
Why Marcus Llorente is always meta in FC 26 Ultimate Team
Marcus Llorente has been a problem card in Ultimate Team for years. EA consistently gives him a combination of pace, physicality, stamina and defensive ability that makes him outperform his rating. In FC 26, that formula remains unchanged.
His in game body type, long stride animations and ability to cover massive areas of the pitch make him feel faster than his stats suggest. Whether played at right back or central midfield, Llorente always offers elite recovery speed and relentless pressure.
That is why professional players and high level Weekend League grinders always lean on him early in the cycle. This new objective version fits directly into that tradition.
FC 26 Ultimate Gauntlet makes Llorente free for everyone
The most shocking part of this release is how easy the card is to unlock. The Ultimate Gauntlet objective does not require wins. You do not need to sweat matches or worry about matchmaking.
All that is required is playing games and scoring goals across multiple matches. You can even complete parts of the objective by trading goals or playing casually. This design choice means almost every active FC 26 player will unlock Marcus Llorente within a day or two.
Alongside the player, the objective also rewards valuable packs like 86×3, 83×10 and 82×10, which adds even more value to grinding it out. But the real prize is clearly Llorente himself.
New Marcus Llorente card stats and playstyle impact
This version of Marcus Llorente comes as a Winter Wild Cards themed objective reward. He features both right back and central midfield positions, which instantly increases his usability.
The standout feature is Incisive Pass Plus. That single playstyle changes how the card functions. At right back, it allows Llorente to act as a build up outlet who can break defensive lines. In midfield, it turns him into a powerful progression player who can start attacks with ease.
Depending on his base defensive playstyles, he could also be elite as a stay back right back or a box to box midfielder. Even without multiple defensive plus playstyles, his pace and physicals usually compensate.
This versatility is what makes him dangerous for squad balance across FC 26.
How Marcus Llorente affects the FC 26 transfer market
Whenever EA releases a free meta card, the market reacts quickly. Marcus Llorente is no exception.
Right backs and central midfielders are the most vulnerable positions. Many players will replace a tradable card with this free Llorente, leading to increased supply and falling prices. Even strong promo cards can see short term dips when a player of this level becomes widely available.
Inform Llorente is the clearest example. His price already started falling once leaks confirmed this objective. Historically, his informs hold value due to rarity, but a free upgraded version kills demand almost instantly.
If you are holding tradable midfielders or right backs in FC 26, today is a moment to watch prices closely.
Best positions to use Marcus Llorente in FC 26
The beauty of this card lies in flexibility. Marcus Llorente can realistically start in multiple roles without feeling out of place.
At right back, he offers recovery speed, strength and the passing ability to push forward when needed. He suits both overlapping and inverted fullback instructions.
In central midfield, he thrives as a box to box option. His stamina allows him to press aggressively while still supporting attacks late in matches. Incisive Pass Plus gives him a creative edge that previous versions sometimes lacked.
Some players may even use him as a defensive midfielder alongside a more creative partner. His ability to cover space makes him effective even without sitting deep all game.
Why this could be the best objective card in FC 26
Objective cards are often hit or miss. Some feel underpowered within weeks. Marcus Llorente does not fall into that category.
Because of his base attributes and playstyle profile, this card should remain usable for a long time. Even as power creep increases, Llorente’s pace and versatility usually keep him relevant well into future promos.
The fact that he is free only amplifies his value. There is no risk, no fodder investment and no time pressure beyond playing a few matches.
For many players, this will be a permanent starter or at least a reliable rotation option for months.
Marcus Llorente and squad building in FC 26
Chemistry is unlikely to be an issue. As a La Liga and Spanish player, Marcus Llorente links easily with popular cards already in many clubs. Objective players, promo attackers and Spanish midfielders make him easy to integrate.
Because he fits multiple positions, he also allows for tactical flexibility. You can switch formations in game without needing multiple substitutes, which is a huge advantage in competitive modes.
This squad building freedom is another reason why his release matters so much.
FAQ about Marcus Llorente in FC 26
Is Marcus Llorente free in FC 26
Yes, he is unlocked through the Ultimate Gauntlet objective.
Do you need wins to get Marcus Llorente
No, you only need to play matches and score goals.
What positions can Marcus Llorente play
He can play right back and central midfield.
Will Marcus Llorente affect market prices
Yes, right backs and midfielders may drop due to replacements.
Marcus Llorente has always been one of EA’s most reliable meta cards and this FC 26 objective version might be the strongest yet considering how easy it is to obtain. For once, nearly every player gets access to a truly elite card, and that alone makes this one of the most important content drops of the year.
