With the launch of EA FC 25, the new season brings a wealth of exciting updates that refresh the gameplay experience. Among the notable changes are new features like untradeable duplicate storage and the reintroduction of relegations in higher Rivals divisions. But perhaps the biggest shakeup is the introduction of FC IQ, which revamps tactics and opens up new ways to utilize your players more dynamically.

To help you start strong in Ultimate Team, here’s a look at 10 affordable yet powerful players under 10,000 coins, each of whom stands out for their attributes and roles within the new system. While the ultimate goal might be to save for the new Icons or Heroes, these budget-friendly options can give you a competitive edge in your initial journey toward gold.

1. Maxence Lacroix (CB) - 88 Pace, Ball-Playing Defender +
Lacroix’s 88 pace and Ball-Playing Defender + role make him ideal for Premier League starter squads. At 6’3”, he’s a towering, reliable presence who pairs well with a slower center-back. Available for around 3,000 coins, he provides valuable links to Crystal Palace, the Premier League, and French players.

2. Ewa Pajor (ST/LW) - 88 Pace, 88 Shooting, Advanced Forward +
Pajor, priced close to the 10,000-coin mark, is an exceptional option with her 88 pace and shooting. Versatile enough to play as a striker or left winger, she links seamlessly with Barcelona’s top-tier players like Aitana Bonmatí, and she’s a powerful offensive force in early-game Rivals.

3. Viktor Gyökeres (ST) - 90 Pace, 83 Shooting, 91 Physical
With 90 pace, 83 shooting, and an impressive 91 physical, Gyökeres is an affordable powerhouse for just 7,000 coins. His chemistry links can be tricky given his Swedish nationality and Portuguese league, but if you can work him into your lineup, he performs as a budget-friendly alternative to Haaland, complete with a 5-star weak foot.

4. Michael Olise (RM) - 80 Pace, 4-Star Skills, Finesse Shot Playstyle
Olise might seem slower on paper, but his 4-star skills and finesse shot capability make him an underappreciated right-sided player. Priced at around 1,000 coins, Olise’s skillset allows him to score effortlessly against weaker goalkeepers in lower divisions.

5. Joe Gomez (CB) - Evolutions Boost, 89 Pace
Gomez has been a staple defensive choice in Ultimate Team, and he’s even stronger in EA FC 25. By using Power Surge and Club Member Reward Evolutions, his card can reach 89 pace and an 84 overall rating. He’s available for roughly 3,500 coins, a fantastic investment for a speedy, strong center-back.

6. Ruben Loftus-Cheek (CM) - Evolutions Upgrade, 84 OVR
With a combination of 4-star skills and weak foot, Loftus-Cheek shines as a central midfielder, especially when boosted by Intro to Stat Limits and From Box-to-Box Evolutions. For under 10,000 coins, he offers excellent value and is highly competitive as a midfielder in the early stages.

7. Ferdi Kadıoğlu (LB) - 88 Pace, Falseback Role
Kadıoğlu’s 88 pace and ability to function as a Falseback make him a fantastic option for those wanting to push a fullback into midfield. His 90 acceleration and solid defending stats make him one of the best early-game gold cards for under 5,000 coins.

8. Asisat Oshoala (ST) - 91 Pace, 84 Shooting, 85 Dribbling
Oshoala remains a powerful striker, now representing Bay FC in the NWSL. With 91 pace, 84 shooting, and 85 dribbling, plus 4-star skills and weak foot, she’s devastating in front of the goal and has a unique look with her bright hair. Expect her to lead your frontline effectively early on.

9. Cole Palmer (RM) - Inside Forward ++
Though not the fastest right midfielder, Palmer’s versatility as an Inside Forward ++ or Shadow Striker + makes him an excellent pick. With the addition of a pace-boosting Chemistry Style, he can be a dynamic threat on the right wing. He’s a smart buy for any Premier League-focused squad.

10. Kai Havertz (ST/CM) - Advanced Forward +, 4-Star Skills
Havertz’s custom build and flexible playstyle make him an entertaining choice. He can perform either as an Advanced Forward + or a Half Winger +, adding tactical flexibility. Priced at a budget-friendly 900 coins, his 4-star skills and weak foot make him a fun addition to any lineup.

These players each offer great value and help you harness the tactical depth that FC IQ brings to EA FC 25. They’re ideal picks for assembling a formidable starter squad, giving you a solid foundation to work your way up the divisions as you adapt to the game’s fresh dynamics.

If you want to improve the combat effectiveness of "EA FC 25" faster, you might as well go to the Z2U platform to learn more. Z2U is a game trading platform trusted by players, providing a variety of game resources, including FC 25 Coins, to help you easily build an ideal lineup. Whether it is to strengthen the team's high-quality players or quickly accumulate resources, Z2U.COM can provide you with safe and convenient services, allowing you to achieve your goals faster in "EA FC 25"!