Every new Ultimate Team cycle in EA FC comes with fresh promos designed to shake up the market and give players new reasons to experiment with squads. One of the most intriguing promos of FC 26 is the launch of Cornerstones, a program centered around players who have become vital to their club's style of play. Cornerstones Team 1 includes a host of rising stars and established leaders, all given early-season boosted ratings that make them standout options in FC 26 Coins Ultimate Team squads.

In this guide, we'll break down the best cards in Cornerstones Team 1, how they compare to similar players, and where they fit into your team. We'll also discuss how to use these players effectively in both FUT Champions and Division Rivals, as well as their market impact and long-term potential.

Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United, CM/CAM – 88 OVR)

Key Stats:

Passing: 91

Shooting: 87

Dribbling: 87

Stamina: 95

Fernandes is all about control. His passing and stamina make him an engine in midfield, capable of pulling the strings for 90 minutes without losing intensity. He's also one of the best penalty-takers in the game.

Best Position: CAM or CM depending on formation.

Chemistry Links: Manchester United links help hybrid Premier League builds.

Gameplay Tip: Apply Maestro chemistry style to maximize his playmaking while keeping his long shots dangerous.

Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City, CM – 87 OVR)

(Note: Fictional team assignment—Reijnders currently plays for AC Milan, but his Cornerstones inclusion in FC 26 is tied to Manchester City in-game.)

Key Stats:

Pace: 83

Passing: 86

Defending: 82

Physical: 84

Reijnders is an underrated pick in this promo. He offers excellent balance between defense and attack, playing similarly to Valverde but at a slightly cheaper price point.

Best Position: CDM in a double pivot, or CM in box-to-box roles.

Gameplay Tip: With Anchor chemistry style, he becomes a robust defensive midfielder capable of holding the midfield against top-tier attackers.

Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao, RW – 87 OVR)

Key Stats:

Pace: 94

Dribbling: 89

Shooting: 83

Passing: 80

Williams is pure pace. If you want a winger who can stretch defenses and burn fullbacks, he's your guy. He may not have the technical passing of Palmer, but his speed makes him a nightmare in cheap FC Coins counter-attacking systems.