FIFA, as an eSports competition, continues to attract tons of fans with its ongoing popularity.
The FIFA eSports world has exploded, with top gamers striving to win big money – and worldwide recognition. The path to reaching the upper level remains tough, and only a few have succeeded in achieving it.
FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT), part of EA Sports’ FIFA games (now called EA Sports FC) is a huge part of the growing success of FIFA as an eSport.
In FUT mode, players can create their dream football team by collecting and trading virtual cards of real players.
They can then play against others (both online or offline) in different tournaments and challenges, to win prizes and strengthen their team.
Top 6 Biggest FIFA Players
So who are the biggest stars making a name for themselves in this field?
1. Manuel Bachoore (Netherlands), AKA ManuBachoore
Manuel Bachoore (who represents Team Gullit) secured his place in the history books by winning the FIFA World Cup 2023, where he showcased his skills and shone as one of the top players in the competition.
He’s known for his strategic blend of solid defensive play and swift counter-attacks – and he is notoriously difficult to defeat. He does especially well under pressure, maintaining composure and effectively exploiting open spaces.
We think Bachoore can be a great role model for aspiring eSports players, who can learn a lot from his defensive positioning and the way he launches counterattacks!
2. Anders Vejrgang (Denmark), AKA Vejrgang
Anders Vejrgang is from Denmark – and is most well known for being such a young prodigy in the world of FIFA eSports. Despite his young age, he’s shown incredible skills and strategic gameplay.
One of the most impressive feats in his career was setting a record-breaking winning streak in FIFA’s Weekend League, where he won 535 consecutive games – when he was aged only 15!
This (amongst other incredible feats) has earned him a huge following and respect within the eSports community.
3. Umut Gültekin (Germany), AKA Umut
Umut Gültekin, from Germany, is another huge player in the FIFA eSports scene, playing for RBLZ Gaming.
He won the FIFAe World Cup 2022, where he defeated Nicolas Villalba in a tense penalty shootout. Later, he also led RBLZ Gaming to victory in the FIFAe Club World Cup 2023 and secured the DFB-ePOKAL title in 2024.
His career earnings are estimated at over $760,000 – so it’s no surprise that Umut has established himself as one of the top EA Sports FC competitors globally!
5. Donovan Hunt (United Kingdom), AKA Tekkz
All FIFA eSports enthusiasts are sure to have heard of British legend Donovan Hunt, who goes by the name Tekkz.
He gained prominence at just 16, when he won the FIFA FUT Champions Cup and secured a top prize of nearly £17,500.
In 2019, representing KiNG Esports, he clinched the FIFA eClub World Cup title – and that same year, he made history by winning the inaugural ePremier League, bringing the first-ever ePremier League title to Liverpool.
Tekkz has amassed over $100,000 in prize money, so it’s no shock that many young players look up to him as a source of inspiration!
6. Nicolás Villalba (Argentina), AKA Nicolas99fc
Nicolás Villalba playing under the name Nicolas99fc, represents Cloud9. He’s secured notable victories, including the 2018 FIFA Global Series Playoff in Amsterdam and the 2019 FIFA eClub World Cup.
In 2022, he won the eChampions League, earning a $75,000 prize. Throughout his career, he has amassed over $826,000 in prize money, solidifying his status as one of the top competitors in the EA Sports FC esports scene.
Why is FIFA eSports Growing?
Much like other eSports, FIFA (EA Sports FC) is growing; in fact, it has never been bigger, even in terms of viewership.
In 2023, EA Sports FC esports reached a peak viewership of approximately 340,000 during major tournaments.
But why, exactly, is that?
- Bigger Prize Pools & Investment: EA (and other sponsors) are pouring millions into FIFA esports, which makes it more lucrative for players and organizations.
- Higher Viewership & Engagement: There are record-breaking audiences on Twitch and YouTube during major tournaments, which is driving more interest in competitive FIFA.
- Support from Football Clubs & Leagues: Top clubs, like Manchester City and PSG, now even have esports divisions, which is bringing FIFA esports closer to real-world football.
- More Competitive & Structured Tournaments: EA has expanded its official esports ecosystem with more leagues, global events, and improved online infrastructure.
Pro FIFA Tips to Win
With prizes getting bigger and bigger, there’s obviously a lot of interest from players looking to go pro.
So if you’re looking to level up to a professional FIFA level, we have a few trustworthy tips to carry with you:
1. Master Skill Moves
Top players like Tekkz and PHzin use skill moves to create space and beat defenders. Focus on these essential moves:
- Elastico – Quick direction change to trick opponents.
- La Croqueta – Perfect for tight spaces and close control.
- Reverse Elastico – Confuses defenders with unexpected movement!
2. Use Custom Tactics
Pro players also fine-tune tactics to match their playstyle. Try these effective setups:
- 4-2-3-1 – A balanced approach with solid defense and attack.
- 4-1-2-1-2 (Narrow) – Great for fast, short-passing plays.
- 5-3-2 – Provides strong defensive stability while allowing counterattacks.
3. Watch Pro Gameplay
This one goes without a saying: watching top FIFA players on Twitch, YouTube, and tournament highlights is going to help you learn advanced strategies, positioning, and decision-making.
Use a Virtual Private Network, get comfortable at your set up and analyze their movements, passing choices, and defensive setups to improve your own game!
