The Team of the Year Hype Begins: Voting, Market Insights, and SBC Highlights

The most anticipated time in EA Sports FC 25 is here – Team of the Year (TOTY)! This is when the entire community gears up for one of the biggest events in Ultimate Team. From casting votes to building hype for the promo, everything starts today.

Team of the Year Voting: Who Makes the Cut?

Today marks the official start of the Team of the Year voting process. Players across the globe can now cast their votes to decide which football stars, both male and female, will feature in the final TOTY lineup. But how much of the community’s vote actually influences the final squad? EA has historically remained vague, stating that TOTY is formed through a combination of community votes and their internal decisions.

The nominees list is expected to be massive, and voting will undoubtedly spark debate. Will players choose based on meta-game utility or reward those who genuinely deserve recognition for their on-field performances over the past year? The official voting page is now live, so don’t miss out on making your voice heard.

Market Movements: Time to Buy or Sell?

The TOTY hype inevitably affects the in-game transfer market. Some card prices are rising in anticipation, while others are starting to dip. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Fodder Investments: Prices for low-rated fodder like 84s and 85s are climbing steadily as more SBCs roll out. This trend is likely to continue as players prepare for TOTY-related upgrades.
• High-Tier Meta Cards: Expensive cards like Vinícius Jr.’s Winter Wildcards have seen a sharp drop in price. The market typically panics leading up to TOTY as players sell their assets to afford TOTY items. Expect further declines in top-tier cards over the next week.
• In-Form Cards: In-forms at 12k coins are a solid investment, especially with potential SBC requirements for pack-saving initiatives like the anticipated 83+ x10 upgrades.

For those looking to profit from the market, trading in lower-priced cards under 200k seems less risky at the moment. Stay vigilant and capitalize on fluctuations.

Highlighted SBCs: Sadio Mané and Icon Packs

The latest Sadio Mané SBC has caught the attention of many Ultimate Team enthusiasts. This version of Mané features five-star skills and a four-star weak foot, making him an exciting option for those with the right squad chemistry. With a price tag of approximately 130,000 coins, the SBC offers excellent value.

Key attributes for this Mané card include:

• Position versatility: CAM, Striker, or RM.
• Impressive playstyles, including Rapid+ and Box-to-Box.
• A nostalgic nod to his previous TOTY card that was a fan favorite.

Another notable SBC is the 87+ Base or Centurions Icon Upgrade, priced around 146,000 coins. While the pack weight on these icons remains debatable, the thrill of potentially packing a legend like R9 or Zidane keeps this SBC popular among fans. If you’re saving packs for TOTY, it may be wise to hold onto your fodder for upcoming premium options.

You can learn more about the biggest promotion of the year in this video from TheFutAccountant.

TOTY Content Calendar and Expectations

The TOTY event officially kicks off on January 17 with the release of attackers. Here’s the expected schedule for TOTY content:

• January 17: Attackers released.
• January 19: Midfielders released.
• January 21: Defenders released.
• January 23: Full TOTY squad in packs.
• January 24: TOTY 12th man and honorable mentions released.

This year’s TOTY includes both men’s and women’s teams, adding even more excitement to the promo. While leaks have been scarce, fans can expect some surprises, including TOTY Icons, unique playstyles, and high-value SBCs.

FC Pro and Live Player Card Updates

Today also marks the return of FC Pro, where live player cards are set to receive major upgrades based on tournament performances. Fabio Carvalho and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens are among the players to watch, as their performances could lead to +2 or +3 overall boosts. These cards present both high-risk and high-reward trading opportunities, depending on their progress in the tournament.

Saving Packs: Is It Worth It?

With TOTY on the horizon, many players are holding onto their high-value packs. Despite last year’s mixed experiences, saving packs for TOTY remains a common strategy. Expect the release of upgrade SBCs, such as the 85+ x3 combos, to help bolster pack inventories.

The excitement for TOTY is palpable, and today’s voting marks the first step in a promo that always delivers unforgettable moments in Ultimate Team.

Frequently Asked Questions