The End of Neymar Era in EA Sports FC 25!
On February 5, 2025, Neymar Jr.’s return to his boyhood club Santos FC marked a bittersweet moment for football fans and gamers alike.
While the Brazilian superstar’s homecoming was celebrated in São Paulo, it will lead to his removal from EA Sports FC 25, in the latest squad update.
This farewell stems from licensing limitations: Santos FC and the Brazilian Serie A are not licensed in the game, leaving Neymar’s presence in limbo.
Table of Contents
Why Neymar Will Removed?
Licensing Battles
EA Sports does not hold licenses for the Brazilian league (Campeonato Brasileiro Série A), which is currently owned by Konami, the developer of eFootball. This prevents EA from including Santos FC or any Brazilian league teams in FC 25. Neymar’s move from Al-Hilal (a licensed Saudi Pro League club) to Santos left him ineligible for inclusion, as EA cannot represent unlicensed clubs or their players
Impact on Game Modes
- Career Mode & Kick-Off: Neymar will removed entirely from these modes, leaving fans unable to play with him outside of Ultimate Team (FUT).
- Ultimate Team: His existing FUT cards (e.g., 87-rated Gold, 91 Winter Wildcards) remain accessible but are tied to Al-Hilal. No new cards will reflect his Santos transfer, mirroring past cases like Luis Suárez (Grêmio) and Felipe Anderson (Palmeiras).
Fan Reactions and Nostalgia
The removal has sparked widespread disappointment. Brazilian fans launched a petition titled “Include the Brasileirão in EA FC 26”, amassing over 4,700 signatures, while others campaigned for a farewell “End of an Era” (EOAE) card to honor Neymar’s legacy.
Neymar’s virtual career has been legendary. He peaked in FIFA 17 with a 92 overall rating and 95 potential, becoming a staple of Ultimate Team with three 99-rated special cards. His decline to an 87 rating in FC 25 reflects both aging and injuries, but his digital absence feels abrupt to longtime fans.
EA Sports commitment is to deliver an authentic gaming experience with officially licensed teams and leagues. Unfortunately, at present, Santos FC and the corresponding Brazilian league are not part of EA Sports licensing portfolio. As a result, any player—regardless of stature—who transfers to an unlicensed team must be adjusted accordingly in the game’s roster.
The Broader Licensing Challenge
EA’s struggle with licenses extends beyond Brazil. Serie A clubs like AC Milan and AS Roma also appear under generic names in FC 25, while Mexican and Japanese leagues face similar exclusions. This highlights the competitive licensing landscape between EA and Konami, which often prioritizes exclusive deals.
Neymar’s move to Santos FC is laden with sentimental value and historical significance. Yet, it also exposes a less glamorous aspect of sports licensing. EA Sports, like many game developers, must navigate complex agreements that sometimes force them to alter or remove iconic players from their digital rosters.
Read More: EA SPORTS FC 26: Liga BBVA MX Returns
Final Whistle
In the wake of this transfer, one thing is certain: Neymar’s journey remains as unpredictable and influential as ever. For now, as fans rally behind his return to where it all began, both the traditional and virtual realms of football await the next chapter in his storied career.
F.A.Q
Will Neymar be removed from EA Sports FC 25?
Yes, Neymar will be removed from the game mode career Mode and Kick-Off.
His existing FUT cards remain accessible but are tied to Al-Hilal.
Will Neymar be in EA Sports FC 26?
Yes, if the company contracts with the Brazilian league (Campeonato Brasileiro Série A) and thus Santos club. We hope so.
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