In the world of FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT), few names command as much respect and admiration as Lionel Messi. The Argentine maestro has been a staple in FUT for years, and his cards are always among the most sought-after. With the release of FC 25, Messi’s latest Evolution card has taken the community by storm. This 91-rated gem is not just a tribute to his legendary career but also a versatile and powerful addition to any squad. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the new Lionel Messi Evolution card, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and how it compares to other versions of Messi available in the game.

The Evolution Card: A New Beast in FC 25

The new Lionel Messi Evolution card is a 91-rated beast with some incredible upgrades over his base rare gold card. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key stats and features:

Position Versatility: Messi can play as a Right Wing (RW), Right Mid (RM), Central Attacking Mid (CAM), and even as a Striker (ST). This versatility makes him a valuable asset for any formation.

Skill Moves and Weak Foot: He boasts 4-star skill moves and a 5-star weak foot, making him unpredictable and deadly in front of goal.

PlayStyles: Messi comes with the Technical and Trellaa PlayStyle Plus, along with nine other play styles, including Finesse Shot, Power Shot, Incisive Pass, and Quick Step. These play styles enhance his ability to create chances, score goals, and dominate the midfield.

Stat Upgrades: Compared to his base card, this Evolution card receives a +10 to Pace, +6 to Shooting, +1 to Defending, and a massive +13 to Physicality. These upgrades make him faster, more clinical, and slightly more durable on the pitch.

In-Game Performance: A Maestro in Action

To truly understand the impact of this card, let’s break down its in-game performance across key attributes:

1. Pace: Lightning Quick Acceleration

With 89 Pace (97 Acceleration and 82 Sprint Speed), Messi is no slouch. While his sprint speed isn’t the highest, his explosive acceleration allows him to burst past defenders, especially when combined with the Quick Step PlayStyle. Applying a Hunter chemistry style is highly recommended to maximize his pace and shooting, making him a constant threat on the counterattack.

2. Shooting: Clinical Finishing

Messi’s 91 Shooting is where this card truly shines. With 90 Attacking Positioning and 92 Finishing, he’s always in the right place at the right time. The addition of the Finesse Shot and Power Shot PlayStyles gives you multiple ways to score. Whether you’re curling one into the top corner or blasting it past the keeper, Messi delivers. His 5-star weak foot ensures he can finish with either foot, making him unpredictable and deadly in the box.

3. Passing: The Playmaker

With 87 Passing, Messi is not just a goal scorer but also a creator. His 90 Vision, 87 Short Pass, and 86 Long Pass make him an excellent playmaker. The Incisive Pass PlayStyle allows him to thread through balls with pinpoint accuracy, while the Tiki-Taka PlayStyle ensures smooth link-up play in tight spaces. Whether you’re playing him as a CAM or on the wing, Messi will consistently create chances for your team.

4. Dribbling: The Magician

Messi’s 92 Dribbling is where he truly feels like the real-life legend. With 90 Agility and 95 Balance, he glides past defenders with ease. The Technical PlayStyle Plus enhances his close control, making him nearly impossible to dispossess. While his Reactions stat (85) is slightly lower than some might prefer, his small stature (5’7”) and quick movements more than make up for it. If you enjoy skill moves and intricate dribbling, Messi is your man.

5. Physicality: Improved but Still a Weakness

The biggest upgrade to this card is its Physicality, which jumps to 77. With 90 Stamina, Messi can last the full 90 minutes, but his 78 Strength and 54 Aggression mean he’s still not the strongest player on the pitch. However, his agility and balance help him avoid physical battles, and his improved stamina ensures he remains effective throughout the match.

Versatility: Multiple Roles, One Legend

One of the standout features of this Evolution card is its versatility. Messi can excel in multiple positions, making him a flexible option for any squad. Here’s how he performs in different roles:

Right Wing (RW): As an inside forward, Messi’s pace, dribbling, and shooting make him a constant threat. His ability to cut inside and unleash finesse shots or power shots with either foot keeps defenders guessing.

Central Attacking Mid (CAM): In the CAM role, Messi’s passing and dribbling shine. He can dictate play, create chances, and pop up with crucial goals. The Trellaa PlayStyle Plus ensures he’s always involved in the build-up.

Striker (ST): While not his natural position, Messi’s finishing and positioning make him a viable option up front, especially in a two-striker formation.

Comparison: Evolution vs. Perfect Attacking Midfielder Evo

A few days prior to this Evolution card, another version of Messi was released through the Perfect Attacking Midfielder Evolution. Here’s how the two cards stack up:

Pace: The new Evolution card has a +4 advantage in Pace, making it slightly faster.

Shooting: The new card also has a +6 boost to Shooting, making it more clinical in front of goal.

Passing: The Perfect Attacking Midfielder version has a +4 advantage in Passing, making it slightly better as a playmaker.

PlayStyles: The new card features the Trellaa PlayStyle Plus, while the older version has the First Touch PlayStyle Plus. Both are excellent, but the choice depends on your playstyle.

Overall, the new Evolution card is slightly better for pace and shooting, while the older version excels in passing. Both are excellent options, but the new card’s versatility and upgrades make it a more well-rounded choice.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

Completing the Evolution costs 50,000 EA FC 25 Coins, and Messi’s base rare gold card is currently available for around 20,000 coins. For a total investment of roughly 70,000 coins, you get a 91-rated Messi with significant upgrades and versatility. Compared to other high-rated cards in the game, this is excellent value for money. If you’re a fan of Messi or prefer smaller, agile players, this Evolution is a must-complete.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Any Squad

The new Lionel Messi Evolution card is a game-changer in FC 25. With its incredible upgrades, versatility, and value for money, it’s one of the best Evolution cards available. Whether you’re playing him on the wing, in the midfield, or up front, Messi delivers consistent performances and moments of magic. If you’re looking to add a touch of class to your Ultimate Team, this Evolution card is the way to go.

So, what are you waiting for? Complete the Evolution, add Messi to your squad, and watch as he lights up the pitch with his brilliance. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive FUT enthusiast, this card is sure to bring joy and success to your team. Happy gaming!