Hey there, fellow FC 26 enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for that edge in Ultimate Team, and let me tell you, The Big Fella Evolution is exactly what we’ve been waiting for. I’ve spent countless hours testing different players and grinding through the evolution challenges, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned about this game-changing feature.
What is The Big Fella Evolution?
Let me break it down for you – The Big Fella Evolution is EA Sports’ latest paid evolution that transforms your CDM into an absolute monster on the pitch. For 25,000 FC 26 Coins or 300 FC Points, you can upgrade a defensive midfielder with everything they need to become elite. When I first heard about the cost, I was a bit hesitant, but trust me, after seeing the results, it’s worth every single coin.
The evolution is inspired by Marouane Fellaini’s iconic playing style – you know, that big-haired Belgian powerhouse who dominated aerial duels and physical battles. This evolution focuses heavily on strength, heading, tackling, and aggression, turning your chosen player into “The Big Fella” on the pitch.
Evolution Requirements
Before you get too excited, you need to make sure you have the right player for the job. Here are the requirements:
- Overall Rating: Max 84
- Position: CDM (Central Defensive Midfielder)
- PlayStyles: Max 10
- Excluded Rarity: World Tour Silver Stars
I learned this the hard way when I tried to use my favorite 85-rated CDM, only to realize he didn’t qualify. So double-check before you invest!
The Big Fella Evolution Upgrades
This is where things get really exciting. The evolution has four levels of upgrades, and let me tell you, the final result is absolutely insane. Here’s what you can expect:
Level 1 Upgrades
- Overall: +5 (capped at 85)
- Pace: +5
- Passing: +5
- Heading Accuracy: +12
- Roles: Deep-Lying Playmaker+
Level 2 Upgrades
- Interceptions: +8
- Long Shots: +5
- Defensive Awareness: +8
- Shot Power: +5
- Slide Tackle: +6
- Stand Tackle: +8
Level 3 Upgrades
- Aggression: +8
- Stamina: +10
- Strength: +12
- Weak Foot: +1 (capped at 4-Star)
- PlayStyles: Enforcer
- Roles: Holding+
Level 4 Upgrades
- Balance: +5
- Jumping: +12
- Reactions: +5
- PlayStyles: Bruiser
- Roles: Box Crasher++
The Box Crasher++ role alone makes this evolution worth it, but when you combine it with the Enforcer and Bruiser PlayStyles, you’ve got a player who can absolutely dominate the midfield.
Challenge Requirements
To unlock all these upgrades, you’ll need to complete some challenges. Here’s what you’re looking at:
- Level 1: Play 2 matches in Squad Battles on min Semi-Pro difficulty (or Rush/Rivals/Champions/Live Events) using your active EVO player
- Level 2: Win 2 matches in Squad Battles on min. Semi-Pro difficulty (or Rush/Rivals/Champions/Live Events) using your active EVO Player
- Level 3: Score 2 goals with your active EVO player in any mode
- Level 4: Play 3 matches with your active EVO player while having a minimum of 80% pass accuracy
Honestly, these challenges aren’t too bad. I managed to complete them in just a few hours of gameplay.
Top Players for The Big Fella Evolution
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – the players! After extensive testing and research, I’ve compiled a list of the absolute best options for The Big Fella Evolution. I’ve personally used most of these players, and I can tell you they’re game-changers.
1. Eduardo Camavinga
Base Rating: 83 | Position: CDM/CM/LB
Let me start by saying this – if you can get Camavinga for this evolution, do it. Just do it. I’ve used him extensively, and he’s an absolute beast. His base stats are already solid, but when you apply The Big Fella Evolution, he becomes unstoppable.
Why he’s perfect:
- Excellent base defending stats (78 defending, 80 physicality)
- Great pace (78 sprint speed) which gets even better with the +5 boost
- 4-star skill moves and weak foot
- Perfect work rates (Medium/High)
After Evolution Stats:
- Overall: 85
- Pace: 83
- Defending: 86+
- Physicality: 90+
- Heading: 88
I’ve used Camavinga in both Weekend League and Division Rivals, and he consistently performs at an elite level. His ability to break up play, win aerial duels, and contribute to the attack is exactly what you want from a modern CDM.
2. Aurélien Tchouaméni
Base Rating: 84 | Position: CDM
Tchouaméni is another no-brainer for this evolution. I know he’s already rated 84, which means he only gets a +1 overall boost, but the stat increases and role changes make him worth every penny.
Why he’s perfect:
- Elite defending stats (82 defending, 80 physicality)
- Good passing ability (75 passing)
- Strong defensive work rate
- Real Madrid links for squad building
After Evolution Stats:
- Overall: 85
- Defending: 90+
- Physicality: 92+
- Heading: 88
- PlayStyles: Enforcer + Bruiser
I’ve faced Tchouaméni in Weekend League, and let me tell you, he’s a nightmare to play against. With the evolution upgrades, he becomes even more dominant. His ability to cover ground, win tackles, and protect the back line is second to none.
3. Leandro Paredes
Base Rating: 84 | Position: CDM/CM
Paredes is my personal favorite for this evolution, and I’ll explain why. While he might not have the pace of some other options, his technical ability and defensive prowess make him perfect for the Box Crasher role.
Why he’s perfect:
- Elite passing stats (83 passing, 84 shot power)
- Good defending (78 defending)
- Set-piece specialist
- Links with top Serie A and PSG players
After Evolution Stats:
- Overall: 85
- Passing: 88+
- Defending: 86+
- Physicality: 88+
- Long Shots: 86
I’ve used Paredes extensively, and what I love about him is his ability to control the tempo of the game. With the evolution upgrades, his long-range shooting becomes a legitimate threat, and his defensive improvements make him a complete midfielder.
4. Mattéo Guendouzi
Base Rating: 82 | Position: CDM/CM
Guendouzi is a hidden gem that many players overlook, but let me tell you, he’s absolutely incredible with The Big Fella Evolution. I was skeptical at first, but after using him for 20+ games, I’m convinced he’s one of the best value options.
Why he’s perfect:
- Excellent physical stats (82 physicality)
- Good pace (78 sprint speed)
- High aggression base stat
- Versatile positioning
After Evolution Stats:
- Overall: 85
- Pace: 83
- Physicality: 92+
- Aggression: 85+
- Stamina: 87
What I love about Guendouzi is his engine-like qualities. With the stamina boost from the evolution, he can cover every blade of grass for 90 minutes. His aggression improvements make him a pest to play against, constantly harassing opponents and winning back possession.
5. Khéphren Thuram
Base Rating: 81 | Position: CM/CDM
Thuram is another player who flies under the radar but absolutely shines with The Big Fella Evolution. I tested him on a whim, and he quickly became one of my go-to CDMs.
Why he’s perfect:
- Good physical base (79 physicality)
- Solid pace (77 sprint speed)
- Young player with potential
- Nice height (6’3″)
After Evolution Stats:
- Overall: 85
- Pace: 82
- Physicality: 91+
- Defending: 85+
- Heading: 88
Thuram’s height combined with the jumping and heading upgrades makes him dominant in aerial situations. I’ve scored numerous headers from corners with him, and his defensive improvements make him solid at the back.
6. Hina Sugita
Base Rating: 82 | Position: CM/CDM
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a female player in the men’s game? But hear me out. Sugita is absolutely incredible with this evolution, and I’ve had tremendous success with her.
Why she’s perfect:
- Excellent technical stats
- Good passing ability
- Unique links for squad building
- Surprisingly solid defensive base
After Evolution Stats:
- Overall: 85
- Passing: 88+
- Defending: 85+
- Physicality: 88+
- Dribbling: 85+
I was skeptical about using Sugita at first, but she’s been a revelation. Her technical ability combined with the physical upgrades makes her a unique threat in midfield. Plus, she offers links that no other player can provide.
7. Ruben Loftus-Cheek
Base Rating: 83 | Position: CM/CDM
Loftus-Cheek is another player who benefits tremendously from The Big Fella Evolution. His physical presence and technical ability make him a perfect fit for the Box Crasher role.
Why he’s perfect:
- Elite physical stats (85 physicality)
- Good dribbling ability
- Strong presence in midfield
- Premier League links
After Evolution Stats:
- Overall: 85
- Physicality: 95+
- Defending: 88+
- Heading: 88
- Strength: 87
I’ve used Loftus-Cheek in both CDM and CM roles, and he excels in both. His physical dominance is unmatched, and with the evolution upgrades, he becomes a complete midfielder who can contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Comparison Table
To help you make the best decision, I’ve put together this comparison table of the top players:
| Player | Base Rating | Best Position | Key Strengths | Value for Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camavinga | 83 | CDM | All-around, Pace, Defending | Excellent |
| Tchouaméni | 84 | CDM | Defending, Physicality | Very Good |
| Paredes | 84 | CDM | Passing, Long Shots | Very Good |
| Guendouzi | 82 | CDM | Physicality, Stamina | Excellent |
| Thuram | 81 | CDM | Physicality, Heading | Excellent |
| Sugita | 82 | CM/CDM | Technical, Unique Links | Good |
| Loftus-Cheek | 83 | CM/CDM | Physicality, Presence | Very Good |
My Personal Experience
Let me share a bit about my personal journey with The Big Fella Evolution. I started with Camavinga, mainly because I’m a Real Madrid fan and wanted to try him out. I was blown away by how good he became – he was winning balls I had no right to win, scoring headers from corners, and even contributing with some long-range goals.
Then I decided to try Paredes for variety, and I loved how different he felt. While Camavinga is more of an athletic defender, Paredes brought a technical elegance to the position. His passing range opened up new attacking possibilities for my team.
Guendouzi was my biggest surprise. I picked him up for relatively cheap, expecting a decent squad player, but he quickly became a starter. His work rate and stamina meant he was everywhere on the pitch, and his aggression made opponents hate playing against him.
I’ve also experimented with Sugita, and while it took some getting used to, her unique playstyle added a new dimension to my team. The ability to have a technically gifted player who can also hold her own physically is something special.
Tips for Maximizing Your Evolution
Based on my experience, here are some tips to get the most out of The Big Fella Evolution:
- Complete the challenges efficiently: Focus on Squad Battles on Semi-Pro difficulty. You can easily complete the requirements while working on other objectives.
- Consider your squad needs: Look at what your team is missing. If you need pace, go with Camavinga. If you need physicality, Loftus-Cheek or Guendouzi might be better.
- Think about chemistry: Consider which player will give you the best links for your squad. Sometimes a slightly less optimal player with perfect chemistry is better than the “best” player with poor links.
- Don’t forget about positions: While the evolution is designed for CDMs, some players like Paredes and Loftus-Cheek can also play CM, giving you more flexibility.
- Test before committing: If possible, try the players in draft mode or with the loan players EA often gives out before investing your coins.
Is The Big Fella Evolution Worth It?
This is the big question, and in my opinion, it’s a resounding YES. The 25,000 coin price tag might seem steep, but when you consider what you’re getting – a permanent upgrade to one of your players that can transform your team – it’s actually great value.
I’ve spent much more on players who didn’t have half the impact of my evolved CDMs. The ability to take a solid player and turn them into an elite performer is something you can’t put a price on.
Final Thoughts
The Big Fella Evolution is, without a doubt, one of the best evolutions EA has introduced in FC 26. It offers incredible value for money and can genuinely transform your team. Whether you’re a Weekend League warrior or just enjoy playing Squad Battles, having an elite CDM can make all the difference.
From my experience, Camavinga and Paredes are the cream of the crop, but don’t sleep on the other options. Guendouzi, in particular, offers incredible value, and players like Sugita can bring something unique to your squad.
Remember, the best player for you depends on your playstyle, squad needs, and personal preference. I recommend trying a few different options if you can, but you really can’t go wrong with any of the players I’ve mentioned.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there, pick your player, and start evolving. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
FAQ
How much does The Big Fella Evolution cost?
The Big Fella Evolution costs 25,000 FC 26 Coins or 300 FC Points. In my opinion, it’s worth every penny for the upgrades you receive.
Can I use any CDM for The Big Fella Evolution?
No, there are specific requirements. The player must have a maximum overall rating of 84, be a CDM, have no more than 10 PlayStyles, and cannot be a World Tour Silver Stars card.
How long does it take to complete The Big Fella Evolution challenges?
From my experience, you can complete all the challenges in about 2-3 hours of gameplay. The requirements are quite reasonable compared to some other evolutions.
Is The Big Fella Evolution available for the entire game cycle?
Evolutions typically have a limited availability window. I recommend checking the in-game menus for the exact expiration date, but most major evolutions are available for several weeks.
Can I reverse The Big Fella Evolution?
No, once you evolve a player, the changes are permanent. Make sure you’re confident in your choice before committing.
What’s the best position to play The Big Fella Evolution players?
While they’re designed for CDM, many of these players can also play CM. I’ve had success with Paredes and Loftus-Cheek in both positions, depending on my formation and tactics.
Do The Big Fella Evolution players get additional upgrades later in the game?
Generally, evolution upgrades are one-time permanent boosts. However, EA sometimes releases additional evolution paths that can be applied to already-evolved players, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.
How do The Big Fella Evolution players compare to special cards?
In my experience, a well-chosen evolved player can perform just as well as many special cards, at a fraction of the cost. The Box Crasher++ role and additional PlayStyles make them particularly effective.
Can I use The Big Fella Evolution players in Squad Building Challenges?
Yes, evolved players retain their new ratings and stats for use in SBCs, which can be helpful for completing certain challenges.
What formation works best with The Big Fella Evolution players?
I’ve had success with various formations, but 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 variations work particularly well, as they allow your evolved CDM to control the midfield and protect the defense.
Remember to bookmark this page for future reference, as I’ll be updating it with new information and player recommendations as they become available throughout the 2026 season!