When EA drops a 99-rated Squad Building Challenge (SBC), the entire Ultimate Team community takes notice. And this year, FC Pro World Champion Laurent Blanc has received that prestigious honor. Standing at 6'4", equipped with jaw-dropping stats across the board FC 25 Coins, and bolstered by elite playstyles, this card has quickly become one of the most talked-about releases in EA FC 25. Whether you're chasing the perfect backline or just want an endgame defender to anchor your squad, Blanc looks like a generational card worth grinding for.
But is he truly the best center back in the game? Let's break down the stats, playstyles, chem styles, positions, price, and most importantly, the in-game performance that has the community buzzing.
Why This Card Matters
Every FC cycle has its "endgame defenders." Think TOTY Virgil van Dijk, TOTY Sergio Ramos, or Icons like Maldini. Laurent Blanc's 99-rated FC Pro Champion SBC isn't just another strong option-it's a statement card. With this release, EA has essentially handed players an all-round defensive monster who can play in multiple positions and dominate any opponent.
The timing of this card is also important. We're in the late stages of EA FC 25, which means power creep is at its peak. Attackers are faster, stronger, and more technically gifted than ever. Defenders who can't keep up are instantly exposed. Blanc, however, feels like EA's direct answer to that problem: a defender who matches top-tier attackers stride for stride while offering world-class ball distribution from the back.
Key Stats Breakdown
Blanc's stats are nothing short of outrageous:
99 Defending-Perfect tackling, interceptions, and marking. He doesn't just stop attackers-he dominates them.
98 Physicality-Strength, aggression, and stamina maxed to the limit. Strikers bounce off him like he's made of concrete.
94 Pace-Almost unheard of for a 6'4" center back. He has both the recovery speed and acceleration to catch even the game's fastest forwards.
Elite Passing-Thanks to his Pinged Pass+ and other passing playstyles, Blanc can launch precise through balls and long switches directly from defense.
Free Kick Specialist-A surprising but welcome trait, Blanc boasts 99 Free Kick Accuracy. If you've ever wanted your center back to bury a set piece from 25 yards, this is your guy.
Composure & Ball Control-Rarely mentioned, but equally important. Blanc feels calm under pressure, making him viable not just as a CB but potentially as a CDM or CM.
When you stack these numbers together, you're looking at a player who isn't just maxed in defense-he's a complete footballer.
Playstyles and Playstyle+
One of the most exciting elements of Blanc's SBC is the playstyle arsenal he brings to the table:
Pinged Pass+-Elite long passing from deep, crucial for breaking presses and launching counterattacks.
Interception+-Ensures he's cutting out through balls and auto-blocking more effectively than most defenders.
Anticipate+-Helps him stick with attackers, read play, and win the ball cleanly.
Aerial+-With 6'4" height plus this playstyle, he's unbeatable in the air.
Block+-Perfect for last-ditch tackles and saving goals.
Slide Tackle & Bruiser-Aggressive, dominant tackles are guaranteed.
What's missing? Quick Step. Some recent meta CBs like Éder Militão or TOTY Ronald Araújo have it, giving them that lightning burst of speed in tight recovery scenarios. Blanc doesn't-at least not natively. That said, his pace stats and controlled-lengthy accelerate type (depending on chem style) make him feel quicker than expected.
Best Positions
While Blanc is naturally built for the center back role, his versatility is eye-catching:
Center Back (CB)-His best role by far. With his defending and physicality maxed, there are very few strikers in the game who can beat him consistently.
Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM)-Thanks to his passing and anticipation, Blanc could comfortably sit in front of the backline as a destroyer who also sprays passes.
Central Midfielder (CM)-A stretch, but possible. His dribbling and playstyles allow him to carry the ball forward, though most players won't waste his defensive potential here.
CAM-Technically possible, but realistically not recommended unless you're experimenting for fun.
If EA allows a position change through a season pass or objective later, CDM Blanc could be a genuine game-changer.Best Chemistry Styles
Chemistry styles can refine an already overpowered card:
Catalyst-Maxes out pace and passing, while keeping him controlled lengthy. Perfect for a modern CB who can both recover quickly and distribute the ball.
Engine-Boosts agility, balance, and dribbling, but may shift him away from lengthy acceleration. Useful if you want him to feel smoother on the ball in midfield roles.
Anchor-Adds extra strength and defending, but honestly, his stats are already maxed.
For most players, Catalyst is the clear winner. Blanc with near-99 pace and passing makes him unstoppable both defensively and offensively.
In-Game Performance
On the pitch, Blanc doesn't just meet expectations-he surpasses them. A few standout observations from gameplay testing:
1.Recovery Speed-Strikers like Mbappé, Ginola, and CR7 UCL struggle to break away. Blanc catches up almost every time, making him the ultimate safety net.
2.Physical Presence-He doesn't just tackle; he bullies attackers. Even strong strikers like Haaland bounce off him.
3.Positioning-Always in the right spot, whether intercepting passes or cutting off runs. Rarely dragged out of position.
4.Distribution-His passing playstyles allow for quick counters. Breaking a press with one laser-guided pass is game-changing.
5.Set Pieces-Surprisingly fun. With 99 FK accuracy, Blanc can even chip in goals from dead-ball situations.
6.In one standout match, Blanc not only dominated defensively but also scored a hat-trick-including a free kick. For a center back, that's almost unheard of.
Comparison: Blanc vs. Other Top CBs
So where does Blanc rank among the game's elite defenders?
TOTY Van Dijk-Still incredible, but Blanc edges him in speed and passing.
TOTY Ronald Araújo-One of the most physical CBs, but Blanc's complete skill set makes him more versatile.
Maldini (Prime Icon)-The classic gold standard, but Blanc offers more modern attributes (pace, playstyles).
Éder Militão TOTS-Faster acceleration, but lacks Blanc's physical dominance and aerial dominance.
At worst, Blanc is top two in the game-and many would argue he's outright number one.
SBC Cost & Value
At the time of writing, Blanc's SBC is priced around 719,000 coins, according to Easy SBC. Considering his status as an endgame defender and the first-ever 99-rated SBC, that's shockingly reasonable.
Earlier Estimates-He initially hovered closer to 850-900k upon release, but falling fodder prices have made him more accessible.
Value for Coins-Absolute bargain. If you're grinding SBCs and menu fodder, Blanc should be a no-brainer.
For perspective, other 99-rated cards often cost well over 1M coins. Blanc is not only cheaper but arguably more impactful.
Final Verdict
Laurent Blanc's 99-rated FC Pro Champion SBC is nothing short of phenomenal. EA has given us a card that checks every single box for a defender-pace, strength, anticipation, passing, aerial dominance, and composure. He's not just meta; he's the meta.
Pros:
Best-in-class defending and physicality
Near-perfect pace with Catalyst
Incredible passing for a CB
6'4" height with Aerial+ dominance
Affordable for a 99 SBC
Cons:
Lacks Quick Step playstyle
Slightly clunky at times compared to smaller CBs
Overkill in non-competitive modes
Verdict: If you're looking for an endgame CB, stop searching. Blanc is your man. Whether paired with TOTY Van Dijk, Araújo, or Maldini, he instantly elevates any defense into the elite tier FIFA 25 Coins for sale.
For 719k (or less with fodder), this is one of the best-value SBCs of the year and a must-complete for serious players.
When EA drops a 99-rated Squad Building Challenge (SBC), the entire Ultimate Team community takes notice. And this year, FC Pro World Champion Laurent Blanc has received that prestigious honor. Standing at 6'4", equipped with jaw-dropping stats across the board FC 25 Coins, and bolstered by elite playstyles, this card has quickly become one of the most talked-about releases in EA FC 25. Whether you're chasing the perfect backline or just want an endgame defender to anchor your squad, Blanc looks like a generational card worth grinding for.
But is he truly the best center back in the game? Let's break down the stats, playstyles, chem styles, positions, price, and most importantly, the in-game performance that has the community buzzing.
Why This Card Matters
Every FC cycle has its "endgame defenders." Think TOTY Virgil van Dijk, TOTY Sergio Ramos, or Icons like Maldini. Laurent Blanc's 99-rated FC Pro Champion SBC isn't just another strong option-it's a statement card. With this release, EA has essentially handed players an all-round defensive monster who can play in multiple positions and dominate any opponent.
The timing of this card is also important. We're in the late stages of EA FC 25, which means power creep is at its peak. Attackers are faster, stronger, and more technically gifted than ever. Defenders who can't keep up are instantly exposed. Blanc, however, feels like EA's direct answer to that problem: a defender who matches top-tier attackers stride for stride while offering world-class ball distribution from the back.
Key Stats Breakdown
Blanc's stats are nothing short of outrageous:
99 Defending-Perfect tackling, interceptions, and marking. He doesn't just stop attackers-he dominates them.
98 Physicality-Strength, aggression, and stamina maxed to the limit. Strikers bounce off him like he's made of concrete.
94 Pace-Almost unheard of for a 6'4" center back. He has both the recovery speed and acceleration to catch even the game's fastest forwards.
Elite Passing-Thanks to his Pinged Pass+ and other passing playstyles, Blanc can launch precise through balls and long switches directly from defense.
Free Kick Specialist-A surprising but welcome trait, Blanc boasts 99 Free Kick Accuracy. If you've ever wanted your center back to bury a set piece from 25 yards, this is your guy.
Composure & Ball Control-Rarely mentioned, but equally important. Blanc feels calm under pressure, making him viable not just as a CB but potentially as a CDM or CM.
When you stack these numbers together, you're looking at a player who isn't just maxed in defense-he's a complete footballer.
Playstyles and Playstyle+
One of the most exciting elements of Blanc's SBC is the playstyle arsenal he brings to the table:
Pinged Pass+-Elite long passing from deep, crucial for breaking presses and launching counterattacks.
Interception+-Ensures he's cutting out through balls and auto-blocking more effectively than most defenders.
Anticipate+-Helps him stick with attackers, read play, and win the ball cleanly.
Aerial+-With 6'4" height plus this playstyle, he's unbeatable in the air.
Block+-Perfect for last-ditch tackles and saving goals.
Slide Tackle & Bruiser-Aggressive, dominant tackles are guaranteed.
What's missing? Quick Step. Some recent meta CBs like Éder Militão or TOTY Ronald Araújo have it, giving them that lightning burst of speed in tight recovery scenarios. Blanc doesn't-at least not natively. That said, his pace stats and controlled-lengthy accelerate type (depending on chem style) make him feel quicker than expected.
Best Positions
While Blanc is naturally built for the center back role, his versatility is eye-catching:
Center Back (CB)-His best role by far. With his defending and physicality maxed, there are very few strikers in the game who can beat him consistently.
Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM)-Thanks to his passing and anticipation, Blanc could comfortably sit in front of the backline as a destroyer who also sprays passes.
Central Midfielder (CM)-A stretch, but possible. His dribbling and playstyles allow him to carry the ball forward, though most players won't waste his defensive potential here.
CAM-Technically possible, but realistically not recommended unless you're experimenting for fun.
If EA allows a position change through a season pass or objective later, CDM Blanc could be a genuine game-changer.Best Chemistry Styles
Chemistry styles can refine an already overpowered card:
Catalyst-Maxes out pace and passing, while keeping him controlled lengthy. Perfect for a modern CB who can both recover quickly and distribute the ball.
Engine-Boosts agility, balance, and dribbling, but may shift him away from lengthy acceleration. Useful if you want him to feel smoother on the ball in midfield roles.
Anchor-Adds extra strength and defending, but honestly, his stats are already maxed.
For most players, Catalyst is the clear winner. Blanc with near-99 pace and passing makes him unstoppable both defensively and offensively.
In-Game Performance
On the pitch, Blanc doesn't just meet expectations-he surpasses them. A few standout observations from gameplay testing:
1.Recovery Speed-Strikers like Mbappé, Ginola, and CR7 UCL struggle to break away. Blanc catches up almost every time, making him the ultimate safety net.
2.Physical Presence-He doesn't just tackle; he bullies attackers. Even strong strikers like Haaland bounce off him.
3.Positioning-Always in the right spot, whether intercepting passes or cutting off runs. Rarely dragged out of position.
4.Distribution-His passing playstyles allow for quick counters. Breaking a press with one laser-guided pass is game-changing.
5.Set Pieces-Surprisingly fun. With 99 FK accuracy, Blanc can even chip in goals from dead-ball situations.
6.In one standout match, Blanc not only dominated defensively but also scored a hat-trick-including a free kick. For a center back, that's almost unheard of.
Comparison: Blanc vs. Other Top CBs
So where does Blanc rank among the game's elite defenders?
TOTY Van Dijk-Still incredible, but Blanc edges him in speed and passing.
TOTY Ronald Araújo-One of the most physical CBs, but Blanc's complete skill set makes him more versatile.
Maldini (Prime Icon)-The classic gold standard, but Blanc offers more modern attributes (pace, playstyles).
Éder Militão TOTS-Faster acceleration, but lacks Blanc's physical dominance and aerial dominance.
At worst, Blanc is top two in the game-and many would argue he's outright number one.
SBC Cost & Value
At the time of writing, Blanc's SBC is priced around 719,000 coins, according to Easy SBC. Considering his status as an endgame defender and the first-ever 99-rated SBC, that's shockingly reasonable.
Earlier Estimates-He initially hovered closer to 850-900k upon release, but falling fodder prices have made him more accessible.
Value for Coins-Absolute bargain. If you're grinding SBCs and menu fodder, Blanc should be a no-brainer.
For perspective, other 99-rated cards often cost well over 1M coins. Blanc is not only cheaper but arguably more impactful.
Final Verdict
Laurent Blanc's 99-rated FC Pro Champion SBC is nothing short of phenomenal. EA has given us a card that checks every single box for a defender-pace, strength, anticipation, passing, aerial dominance, and composure. He's not just meta; he's the meta.
Pros:
Best-in-class defending and physicality
Near-perfect pace with Catalyst
Incredible passing for a CB
6'4" height with Aerial+ dominance
Affordable for a 99 SBC
Cons:
Lacks Quick Step playstyle
Slightly clunky at times compared to smaller CBs
Overkill in non-competitive modes
Verdict: If you're looking for an endgame CB, stop searching. Blanc is your man. Whether paired with TOTY Van Dijk, Araújo, or Maldini, he instantly elevates any defense into the elite tier FIFA 25 Coins for sale.
For 719k (or less with fodder), this is one of the best-value SBCs of the year and a must-complete for serious players.