There is no greater feeling in EA FC 26 than taking a club that has fallen on hard times and transforming them into a continental powerhouse.
While winning with a “superclub” is fun for a while, the real test of a manager’s skill lies in the Career Mode rebuild. To help you find your next project, we have selected one challenging team from each of the world’s top five leagues.
Based on the latest Squad Update from December 17, 2025, these clubs are perfectly positioned for a transformation. Every team on this list features its Real Stadium in the game, providing that extra layer of authenticity as you climb the ranks.
Your goal? Win the domestic league and cup, and eventually lift the UEFA Champions League or Europa League trophy. Here are our top five rebuild challenges for EA FC 26.
EA FC 26 Rebuild Challenges
5. FC Nantes (Ligue 1)
If you fancy a project in France, FC Nantes offers a balanced but difficult start. With an overall rating of 72 across the board (Attack: 72 – Midfield: 72 – Defence: 71), the squad is consistent but lacks star power.
Playing out of the iconic Stade de la Beaujoire, the club is valued at €112.10M but operates with a relatively tight Transfer Budget of €9.67M.
However, the foundation for the future is there. You’ll have the versatile Louis Leroux, who can cover multiple midfield roles and has an 83 Potential, alongside the dangerous Matthis Abline, whose 76 rating and 83 growth make him your primary attacking threat.
With young talents like Tylel Tati (84 potential) anchoring the defense, the “Canaries” are ready to fly again if you can manage your finances wisely.
4. Hamburger SV (Bundesliga)
Once a giant of German football, Hamburger SV is desperate to reclaim its status in the Bundesliga with overall rating 73 (Attack: 73 – Midfield: 72 – Defence: 73).
Valued at €230.34M and playing at the massive Volksparkstadion, they give you a bit more breathing room with a €16.24M Transfer Budget.
The squad features some high-profile names like Fábio Vieira, who brings creative flair with a 78 rating, and the incredible defensive prospect Luka Vušković, who boasts a staggering 87 Potential.
With players like Albert Sambi Lokonga controlling the tempo, you have the tools to push for a European spot within a couple of seasons, provided you can stabilize a defense that currently averages a 73 rating.
3. Levante UD (La Liga)
Heading over to Spain, Levante UD represents a true underdog story in LA LIGA with overall rating 73 (Attack: 73 – Midfield: 73 – Defence: 72).
Based in the sun-drenched Estadio Ciutat de València, this club has a modest worth of €57.82M and a starting budget of just €10.92M. It is a gritty challenge that requires a keen eye for talent.
The star of the show is Carlos Álvarez, a creative spark in midfield with a 77 rating and 83 Potential. You also have a clinical finisher in Karl Edouard Etta Eyong, who can grow into an 84-rated ST.
With Manu Sánchez providing quality on the left flank, your task is to build a squad around these gems to challenge the dominance of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
2. Udinese (Serie A)
Udinese is a classic Serie A rebuild for those who love Italian football with overall rating 73 (Attack: 73 – Midfield: 73 – Defence: 72).
They play at the modern Bluenergy Stadium and possess a respectable club worth of €283.46M. With nearly €20M in the Transfer Budget, you have enough to make a splash in the first window.
The squad is led by the powerful Oumar Solet (78 rating, 83 potential) and the versatile Nicolò Zaniolo.
A major key to this rebuild will be the development of Arthur Atta in midfield and the growth of young goalkeeper Răzvan Sava, who has an 81 potential.
If you can bolster the defense to match the 73-rated attack, Udinese can quickly become a threat in Italy.
1. Burnley (Premier League)
At the top of our list is Burnley, the ultimate Premier League rebuild with overall rating 75 (Attack: 73 – Midfield: 75 – Defence: 75).
Playing at the atmospheric Turf Moor, this is the most “expensive” challenge on the list, with a club worth of €436.60M and a massive €44.29M Transfer Budget.
Despite the funds, the league is unforgiving, and the 75 overall squad will need immediate investment. You have a world-class foundation in Florentino, an 80-rated CDM who can also slot into CB.
The squad is packed with high-potential talent like Quilindschy Hartman (83 potential), Maxime Estève, and the combative Lesley Ugochukwu.
With Hannibal pulling the strings in midfield, the Clarets have the resources to break into the “Big Six” if you spend that €44M wisely on key positions.
Final Whistle
For every rebuild: win the domestic league, secure the domestic cup, and qualify for — then compete in — the UEFA Champions League or Europa League.
That three-part goal forces you to balance short-term results and long-term development, use your transfer budget smartly, and invest in youth and scouting.
Each of these clubs offers a unique path to glory, but they all require a manager with patience and tactical vision.
Whether you prefer the tight budgets of France and Spain or the high-spending pressure of England, these Rebuild Challenges will test your limits in EA FC 26.
What do you think is the best team for a rebuild in EA FC 26? Share your personal opinion in the comments below, we would love to know who you are managing!
Don’t Miss The Latest Exclusive News & Updates.
