The R9 Evolution card in FC 25 is quickly becoming one of the most popular options among players looking for a top-tier striker. While many of the usual suspects in FC Ultimate Team stand out for their raw stats or chemistry links, this version of Ronaldo is all about performance where it matters most in-game. The card’s strength comes not just from his five-star skill moves and weak foot, but from how smooth he feels on the ball which is a major surprise given his physical presence.
This version of R9 comes with 89 agility and 88 balance but what really makes it work is his unique body type. The R9 body type allows for excellent left-stick dribbling even without needing perfect stat boosts. Add in traits like Quick Step Finesse Shot Plus Technical and Advance Forward Plus Plus and you are working with a striker that can dominate in any offensive role.
Engine chemistry style is essential for maximum performance
While R9 has strong stats across the board the key to making him elite lies in the Engine chemistry style. This setup boosts his dribbling passing and gives his finishing that extra push into the 95-plus range. Without the Engine you are missing out on the responsiveness that allows him to make tight turns and quick movements that separate him from other strikers.
Even though he does not have traits like Press Proven he does have First Touch which is incredibly important in the current meta. The way the ball sticks to him and sets up for that immediate strike is a big part of why top players are using him in serious matches.
His first touch combined with his ability to hold off defendersthanks to 95 strength means that he can create space even in tightly packed defenses. The body control and shielding potential are elite and when paired with Quick Step he becomes incredibly hard to stop.
Shooting animations and finishing are top-class
There is no doubt that R9 has some of the best shooting mechanics in the game. Whether you are using driven shots finesse shots or pure power strikes the ball flies off his foot with precision. The Finesse Shot Plus trait in particular is game changing for edge of the box finishes.
Even with white timed shots R9 often finds the net due to how strong his base mechanics are. Of course green timing always helps but this card gives a bit more forgiveness thanks to his animations and body positioning.
The five star weak foot means you never have to hesitate or force him onto a specific side. He can hit top corners from either foot with confidence. His inside foot shots are especially smooth and in many cases rival those of any prime version in the game.
Advanced play styles and versatility across attacking roles
R9’s movement is another area where this card shines. He has Advance Forward Plus Plus Inside Forward Plus Plus and great base AI. These traits help him stay onside make lethal central runs and work perfectly with quick L1 trigger movements. For players who run a 4 2 1 3 or 4 2 3 1 formation, he can be used centrally or even out wide without a problem.
He is responsive enough to play on the wing and his physicality allows him to bully defenders. This is not common for most strikers who also have high agility and dribbling. It is rare to find a card that blends technical ability with physical dominance like this.
When using him the most effective tactics include giving him some room to receive the ball with momentum. Once he gets that initial touch and activates Quick Step he can glide through tight spaces or push forward with power. He even has the potential to skill through multiple defenders making him a serious threat in one on one and one on two situations.
See the upgraded R9 in action in this video from Inception FC.
Why the Evolution path makes R9 unstoppable
If you have the chance to apply Evolution upgrades to this R9 card do it without hesitation. The boost in dribbling transforms the way he plays. Even if you never used the original version the Evolution version offers something rare a tall strong striker who can left-stick dribble as if he were much smaller.
Many players have noted the card is extinct or sitting near max price and there is good reason for that. The value you get from evolving this card is massive. He competes with the best attackers in the game while still being usable in multiple roles.
For players lucky enough to pack him or get him through Evolution this is easily one of the most valuable upgrades available in FC 25 right now. His overall package pace strength finesse skill moves weak foot and AI make him nearly flawless.
If you get the chance evolve him. Use Engine. Put him in your main squad. And be ready for him to take over matches on his own.
FAQ about R9 Evolution card in FC 25
Is Engine the best chemistry style for R9 in FC 25
Yes it boosts his dribbling and passing while keeping finishing at elite levels
Can R9 be used as a winger or inside forward
Yes his agility and Quick Step allow him to play wide effectively
Does R9 feel heavy on the ball despite his size
No his body type and upgraded dribbling make him very responsive
Is the Evolution upgrade worth it for R9
Absolutely it makes him one of the best attackers in the game right now
