FC 26 Best RB Player Guide - Why Fantasy FC Cancelo Might Become

In EA FC 26 Ultimate Team, the right-back position has evolved from a defensive necessity into one of the most influential roles on the pitch. Modern RBs dictate build-up play, stretch defenses, support attacks, and shut down elite wingers. With the latest promos, stat upgrades, and PlayStyle+ boosts, choosing the right RB can dramatically elevate your squad.

Among all options currently available, João Cancelo's Fantasy FC card is generating massive hype. With an incoming +2 PlayStyle upgrade, many players believe he could soon become the best RB in the entire game. This guide explains why, compares him to other top-tier RBs, and shows how to use elite fullbacks effectively.

Top Meta Right Backs Right Now

Several RBs stand out in FC 26's current meta. Each excels in different tactical setups:

Elite Tier Options

Kyle Walker - unmatched pace and recovery defending

Achraf Hakimi - offensive powerhouse fullback

Cafu - balanced icon choice

Joshua Kimmich - tactical hybrid RB/CM

Federico Valverde - versatile meta defender

Each card offers something unique. Walker dominates defensively, Hakimi thrives in attacking formations, and Cafu remains a reliable all-rounder. But Cancelo's Fantasy version is threatening to surpass them all because of his stat profile and upcoming upgrades.

What Makes Fantasy FC Cancelo Special

Cancelo has always been a fan-favorite in Ultimate Team thanks to his rare combination of:

Elite passing

High dribbling

Strong defending

Attacking positioning

Most RBs excel in one or two areas. Cancelo excels in all four, which is why he fits nearly every formation.

The Importance of the +2 PlayStyle Upgrade

PlayStyles define how players feel in-game. A +2 upgrade doesn't just add stats-it unlocks new traits that directly impact gameplay responsiveness.

Potential benefits include:

Faster animations

Better defensive AI

Cleaner first touches

More accurate driven passes

If the upgrade adds meta PlayStyles (such as intercept or rapid), Cancelo's effectiveness skyrockets.

Stat Profile Breakdown

Let's analyze why Cancelo's numbers are so threatening compared to other RBs:

Pace: Fast enough to track elite wingers

Passing: Midfielder-level distribution

Dribbling: Feels like a winger in tight spaces

Defending: Reliable positioning and tackles

Physical: Strong enough to win duels

This stat balance makes him uniquely suited for possession systems and attacking fullback tactics. Most RBs force you to choose between defense or offense. Cancelo gives you both.

Tactical Advantages of Using an Attacking RB

Modern FC 26 gameplay rewards players who attack from wide areas. A strong RB gives you:

1. Overlapping Runs

A dynamic RB stretches defensive lines, creating space for your winger or CAM.

2. Build-Up Play Support

High passing stats let your RB function as a deep-lying playmaker.

3. Press Resistance

Dribbling ability helps escape high pressure tactics.

Cancelo excels in all three categories, which is why competitive players value him so highly.

Formation Fit - Where Cancelo Shines Most

Best formations for Cancelo:

4-3-3 variants

4-2-3-1

3-5-2 (as attacking wide CB/RM hybrid)

These systems rely on fullbacks contributing offensively. If you use a defensive formation like 5-4-1, you may not fully utilize his attacking strengths.

Comparing Cancelo vs Traditional Defensive RBs

João Cancelo (Attacking/Complete RB)

Elite attacking support - overlaps, underlaps, and creates chances

Midfielder-level passing range for build-up play

High dribbling allows press resistance under pressure

Strong defensive positioning despite offensive role

Extremely versatile - fits possession, counter, and hybrid systems

Traditional Defensive RB Archetype

Focused primarily on stopping wingers and blocking crosses

Limited passing range - mainly safe outlet passes

Lower dribbling ability under pressure

Strong tackling and physical duels

Less tactical flexibility - best in defensive setups

Key Takeaway:

Traditional RBs specialize in preventing goals, while Cancelo specializes in creating and preventing goals, making him more impactful in modern meta tactics.

How to Use Cancelo Effectively In-Game

Owning a top card isn't enough-you must use it correctly.

Offensive Tips

Trigger manual overlapping runs

Use driven passes into midfield

Cut inside instead of always crossing

Defensive Tips

Avoid constant sprinting

Position manually against skillers

Use jockeying instead of slide tackles

Cancelo rewards intelligent play. He isn't just fast-he's technical.

Chemistry Styles That Maximize Him

Best chemistry boosts for Cancelo depend on your playstyle:

Shadow

Maximizes pace + defending

Best for competitive modes

Engine

Improves agility + passing

Perfect for attacking setups

Anchor

Adds strength + defensive solidity

Most players prefer Shadow for meta performance, but Engine can turn him into a pseudo-midfielder.

When Another RB Might Be Better

Even though Cancelo is incredible, he isn't automatically the best choice for every team.

Choose a different RB if:

You play ultra-defensive tactics

You rely heavily on physical duels

You don't attack through fullbacks

For example, a pure defensive system may benefit more from a pace-focused defender like Walker.

Market Value and Investment Potential

Promo cards often rise in value after upgrades or performance boosts. Fantasy cards are especially volatile because their stats can change based on real-world events.

Reasons Cancelo's price could increase:

Upcoming PlayStyle boost

Meta-friendly stat distribution

High popularity among competitive players

If you own him already, holding could be a smart move. If you don't, buying before upgrades may save FC 26 coins.

Competitive Meta Perspective

Top-tier players prioritize three qualities in a fullback:

Recovery speed

Passing reliability

AI positioning

Cancelo checks all three boxes. This is why many pro-level squads now include at least one attacking fullback rather than two defensive ones.

The Evolution of the RB Role in FC 26

Historically, Ultimate Team fullbacks were simple pace merchants. Today, they function as:

Playmakers

Wide midfielders

Secondary attackers

This shift explains why technical RBs like Cancelo are rising in popularity. The game engine now rewards creativity from wide defenders rather than just sprint speed.

Final Verdict - Is Cancelo About to Become the Best RB?

If his PlayStyle upgrade delivers strong traits, yes - he could realistically become the best RB in FC 26.

He already offers:

Elite versatility

Top-tier stats

Tactical flexibility

High skill ceiling

The upgrade may push him past traditional meta picks by making him not just good everywhere-but dominant everywhere.

Right backs are no longer background players-they're tactical weapons. In FC 26, choosing the right RB can determine how well your team defends, builds attacks, and controls tempo.

While many elite options exist, Fantasy FC Cancelo stands out because he combines the strengths of multiple archetypes into one card. If his upcoming upgrade meets expectations, he won't just be one of the best-he could redefine what players expect from the RB position.

Bottom line:

If you like fullbacks who defend like tanks, pass like midfielders, and attack like wingers, Cancelo may soon be the ultimate choice.

MMOexp FC 26 Team