EA FC 25: Shapeshifter Baressi Review
In the ever-evolving world of EA FC 25 Ultimate Team, the Shapeshifters promo has returned to add flair, flexibility, and a touch of chaos to your squads. And one of the latest-and most surprising-additions is none other than Franco Baressi, reimagined not as the stalwart center-back we've known for decades, but as a 5'9" CAM/Striker hybrid with finesse, flair, and five-star skills.
At first glance, the concept may raise eyebrows. A legendary defender now bombing into the box and executing low-drivens? Welcome to the world of Shapeshifters. But is Baressi just another novelty SBC, or is there actual gameplay value hiding behind the nostalgia?
Let's break down what makes this card tick, how he plays in-game, and whether he's worth your hard-earned fodder (or 179k fc 25 coins, to be exact).
Baressi's New Role: Stats, PlayStyles & Positions
Let's get the basics out of the way. The Shapeshifter Icon Baressi card is a massive departure from his original position. While once a towering figure in defense, this version of Baressi can line up as a CAM, CF, or even a striker-with 5-star skill moves, a set of elite playstyles, and excellent offensive stats.
PlayStyle+: Finesse+, Pinged Pass+, First Touch+, Low Driven+
Base PlayStyles: Anticipate, Intercept-unusual for a CAM, but helpful in a high press.
Body Type: Stocky-which usually slows agility, but here, it strangely complements his play.
Key Stats:
Pace: Decent, but benefits heavily from a chemistry style like Engine
Dribbling: Surprisingly slick; low agility/balance is counteracted by his body type
Passing: 95-rated with elite styles to match
Shooting: Good enough for secondary striker duties, especially with Finesse+ and Low Driven+
He's also a part of the 9 Goleen Gang-meaning his overall stats hit the 90 mark across nine core attributes. And while he may not be the quickest sprinter on the pitch, Baressi makes up for it with efficient technical movement, tight control, and versatile positioning.
Chem Style & Build: The Engine Solution
Baressi's biggest drawback on paper is agility and balance, which would normally be a red flag for a CAM or striker. But in-game? It's not the issue you'd expect.
Using an Engine chem style helps fix his pace, agility, and passing all at once. Maxing out those traits turns him into a fluid playmaker with the ability to drive at defenders, link up in the final third, and thread through balls at will.
That stocky body type, often a negative, actually gives him surprising physicality and ball shielding, letting him hold off defenders as he glides around the box.
Verdict: Engine makes him viable. Without it, you'll feel the clunk.
In-Game Test: Foot Champs Performance
Let's move on to the real question-how does Baressi feel in-game?
Movement & Dribbling
The left-stick control is far better than expected.
While he's not blistering fast in open space, his first touch and close control are snappy.
Surprisingly, speed boost dribbles (especially after directional changes) are effective.
Finishing
Low Driven+ is a standout. He converts those tight box chances with consistency.
Green-time shots are powerful and accurate, especially in 1v1s.
His Finesse+ means he can curl one from distance-not quite TOTS Griezmann levels, but certainly reliable.
Passing & Playmaking
Pinged Pass+ is immediately noticeable, especially in tight 1-2s or counters.
Would benefit from Incisive Pass+, especially if you're using him as a CAM in a narrow formation.
Still, his base passing is exceptional, meaning he rarely misplaces a through ball.
Defensive Workrate
Thanks to his Icon heritage and base playstyles like Intercept and Anticipate, he's unexpectedly effective in a high-press system.
Don't expect Vieira levels of tackling, but as a shadow striker or CAM pressing the back line, he wins more duels than you'd think.
Play Style Fit: Perfect in a 4-2-3-1 as a central CAM or in a 4-3-2-2 as a support striker. Can also play in a 4-3-3 as a roaming CM if you like versatility.Price Analysis: SBC Worth It?
The SBC comes in at roughly 179,000 coins, requiring about 8-9 squads. Given today's SBC market, that's very reasonable-especially for a unique Icon card with five-star skills.
Let's put it into perspective:
Compared to recent Icons with similar versatility, Baressi holds his own.
Most players will have fodder saved up from TOTS or early-season objectives.
And you can test him out via the loan option before committing to the full SBC.
Verdict: For under 200k, he's one of the best value Shapeshifter Icons released so far in terms of pure playability.
Final Verdict: Baressi-The Shape You Didn't Expect to Shift
When the card first leaked, expectations were low. Another Italian CAM? Another SBC? Been there, done that. But once you get Baressi on the pitch, you realize this is not your average conversion gimmick.
Whether you use him as a shadow striker crashing the box, a deep-lying playmaker orchestrating counters, or a hybrid CAM with defensive bite, Baressi brings a versatile, high-skill ceiling option to your squad.
Final Rating: 8.5/10
Pros:
Five-star skills
Excellent passing with Pinged+
Unexpectedly smooth dribbling
Versatility (CAM/CM/CF/ST)
Strong link-up play in attacking builds
Affordable SBC
Cons:
Lacks meta traits like Incisive+ or Trickster
Only 91 stamina
Slightly underwhelming long-term pace without boosts
Should You Do This SBC?
If you're tired of the same TOTS attackers and want a unique, fun, and surprisingly effective option, yes. Try the loan. If he clicks, craft the SBC over time. Baressi won't dominate Weekend League leaderboards-but he will elevate your enjoyment.
MMOexp FC 25 Team