How to build Pep Guardiola's Barcelona in FC 25

Building a team that mirrors Pep Guardiola’s legendary FC Barcelona side in EA FC 25 is both a strategic challenge and a rewarding experience. To achieve this, you’ll need a carefully crafted 4-3-3 (holding) formation, featuring players with specific roles that mimic the possession-based, fluid football that Guardiola is known for.

In this article, we break down the ideal player choices, roles, and alternatives to create a squad reminiscent of that iconic FC Barcelona team.

Note: This article is subjective and solely reflects the writer's opinions.

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Guide to build Pep Guardiola's FC Barcelona in EA FC 25

Pep Guardiola's Barcelona's player setup (Image via EA Sports)

The 4-3-3 (holding) formation is the backbone of Pep's philosophy, providing a balance between attack and defense. It emphasizes maintaining possession, controlling the midfield, and pressing high up the pitch. Here’s how you can replicate this style in FC 25.

Striker: Robert Lewandowski (False 9++)

Lewandowski’s role in this setup is as a False 9, dropping deep to link play and create space for the wingers to cut inside. His advanced False 9++ role makes him perfect for this, but since Lewandowski is getting older, you might consider selling him and investing in a younger striker with similar qualities.

Unfortunately, most strikers with False 9++ are over 32 of age, with Lautaro Martinez being one of the few viable long-term options. Look for a striker with False 9+ traits if a replacement is necessary.

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The general 4-3-3 holding formation build-up and every player's role (Image via EA Sports)

Left winger: Raphinha (Winger+)

Raphinha is the ideal choice for the left-wing role as his Winger+ role provides direct running, width, and creativity. His ability to stretch the opposition’s defense helps balance your attack.

If you’re looking for an alternative, consider training Ferran Torres. He grows well in Career Mode and can eventually become a solid winger for the squad.

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Right winger: Lamine Yamal (Inside Forward++)

Lamine Yamal plays the role of an Inside Forward++, cutting inside from the right to score or assist. This is a key component of Guardiola’s Barcelona style, where players like Messi thrived in similar roles.

Yamal’s youth and potential make him an excellent long-term investment. Keep him in this role to capitalize on his growth and ability to influence the game.

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Mac Allister, as seen in the game (Image via EA Sports)

Central midfielders: Pedri (Playmaker++) and Mac Allister (Box-to-Box++)

Pedri is the engine of your midfield, acting as a Playmaker++ who controls the tempo and creates chances. Pairing him with Alexis Mac Allister, who plays the Box-to-Box++ role, provides balance. Mac Allister contributes both defensively and offensively, ensuring the team transitions smoothly between attack and defense.

If you’re looking for another option, Dani Olmo is a versatile midfielder, but since this formation doesn’t require a dedicated CAM, Mac Allister is the better fit.

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Defensive midfielder: Declan Rice (Holding++)

Declan Rice is your Holding++ CDM, anchoring the midfield and protecting the defense. His role is to break up opposition attacks and provide stability, much like Busquets did in Guardiola’s original system.

If you need a more affordable option, Frenkie de Jong or Granit Xhaka are strong choices. Both players have the Holding+ trait and can fit seamlessly into the squad.

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Declan Rice, as seen in the game (Image via EA Sports)

Left-back: Alejandro Balde (Fullback+)

Balde is the ideal candidate for the Fullback+ role. While still young, he has the potential to develop into a key player, and you can train him further to excel in this position.

His pace and ability to contribute to both attack and defense make him a valuable asset. Investing in his development will ensure you have a reliable fullback in the future.

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Right-back: Takehiro Tomiyasu (Wingback++)

Tomiyasu plays the role of a modern Wingback++, providing width and support in attack while maintaining defensive responsibilities. He is younger and cheaper compared to other options with the same traits, making him a good investment for the long term.

His versatility allows him to slot into different defensive setups if needed, making him an invaluable part of your backline.

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Center-backs: Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde (Ball-Playing Defenders++)

Your center-back pairing of Araujo and Kounde offers the perfect blend of defensive solidity and ball-playing ability. Both defenders possess the Ball-Playing Defender++ trait, which allows them to initiate attacks from deep, contributing to the possession-based style of play. Their ability to pass out from the back and read the game ensures your team maintains control even in high-pressure situations.

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Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Sweeper Keeper++)

To complete your Guardiola-inspired setup, you need a goalkeeper who can play as a Sweeper Keeper++, and ter Stegen fits the bill perfectly. His ability to play out from the back and act as an additional defender is crucial for maintaining possession and starting attacks. His leadership and shot-stopping ability further solidify his role in this team.

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Pep Guardiola's Barcelona in EA FC 25: Suggested tweaks and alternatives

The legendary Barcelona team under Guardiola (Image via EA Sports)

• Lewandowski replacement: While Lewandowski is perfect for the False 9++ role, his age might be a concern. Look for a younger striker with False 9+ traits if you're planning for the future.
• CDM alternatives: If Declan Rice is unavailable or too expensive, Frenkie de Jong and Granit Xhaka are both viable alternatives who can perform the Holding+ role effectively.
• Developing youth players: Investing in the development of players like Ferran Torres and Alejandro Balde can save you money in the long run while ensuring you have a squad capable of competing at the highest level.

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This FC 25 squad is balanced and mirrors the legendary FC Barcelona team under Guardiola. Whether you’re playing the matches yourself or simulating through Career Mode, this team has the potential to dominate the league and finish in the top 2 consistently.

By making smart transfers and developing young talent, you can ensure the longevity of your squad while sticking to Guardiola’s principles of fluid, possession-based football.