The new Lilian Thuram SBC is making waves in FC 25 Ultimate Team. Many players are saying it is easily one of the most complete and worthwile SBCs EA has released all year. Thuram’s card perfectly suits the way the meta of FC 25 plays out, offering a unique combination of speed, strength and defensive solidity that is hard to beat.
Why the Lilian Thuram SBC is so popular in FC 25
By default, Thuram is a lengthy player, which is one of the most important traits in this year’s game. Players with the lengthy running style, combined with high pace stats, dominate in defensive and counterattacking situations. With a shadow chemistry style applied, Thuram reaches near perfect pace while already having elite-level defensive stats.
Physical stats are also a massive highlight. Thuram’s base physicals are all in the 90s, giving him a powerful presence on the pitch. While his dribbling stats are intentionally lower to maximize defense and physicality, he still has enough on-ball ability to perform key movements, helped by his four-star skill moves and weak foot ratings.
He is fully stacked with defensive playstyles like Aerial and Relentless, giving him extra power in air duels and relentless stamina during long matches. Plus, he has the Fullback Plus+ playstyle, which is ideal for formations that heavily involve fullbacks in defense and even occasional attack.
You can check the full details of the SBC and see gameplay footage from Inception FC.
How Lilian Thuram performs in different roles
Thuram is best suited for the right-back position, but his abilities also allow him to be used in slightly more advanced roles if needed. His passing, while not elite, is definitely good enough for standard buildup play, especially considering the defensive-first mindset most players will use with him.
He offers a very solid ability to intercept passes, jockey opponents, and use AI-assisted movements to block lanes. His strong tackling, both standing and sliding, make him extremely reliable during urgent defensive situations.
In terms of mobility, Thuram is not going to feel like a silky winger when dribbling. However, because of his four-star skills, you can still manage effective turns and quick moves if needed. His main strength will always be winning the ball back and launching counterattacks quickly.
Best chemistry styles and squad fits for Thuram
The Shadow chemistry style is easily the best choice for Thuram. It maxes out his pace while boosting his defending to elite levels. For formations, anything using a four-back system like 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2 will find him essential at right back. Players using setups with attacking fullbacks, like a 3-5-2, might also find him effective.
Because of his lengthy type, combined with his sheer speed, Thuram can muscle fast attackers off the ball and recover easily when caught out of position. This fits perfectly in the current meta where through balls and quick counters are extremely common.
It is worth noting that this SBC is available for 2 months, making it a great long-term investment. Even with upcoming Team of the Season cards, Thuram will likely remain very competitive, unless extremely high-rated players like Dumfries or others are released.
Lilian Thuram SBC FAQ
Is Lilian Thuram SBC worth completing in FC 25?
Yes, it is one of the best SBCs for defensive players this year.
What chemistry style is best for Lilian Thuram?
Shadow chemistry style is the best to max out pace and defending.
How long is the Lilian Thuram SBC available?
The SBC is available for 2 months from the release date.
Can Lilian Thuram play other positions?
He can, but he is most effective as a right back in defensive systems.