FC 26: Unlock Top Players with the 1 of 3 85+ Player Pick SBC in Ultimate Team
By Alfie Carrington•12/30/2025•2 min read
The highly anticipated "1 of 3 85+ Player Pick" Squad Building Challenge (SBC) has just dropped in FC 26 Ultimate Team, offering managers a fantastic opportunity to bolster their squads with high-rated talent. This repeatable SBC allows you to earn one of three rare gold player items, each rated 85 or higher, giving you a strong chance to land a meta player or valuable fodder. Let's dive into the details of this exciting challenge, analyze its potential value, and help you decide if it's worth completing.
How to Complete the 1 of 3 85+ Player Pick SBC
To get your hands on a potential game-changer, you'll need to complete two separate challenges within this SBC. Each challenge comes with its own set of requirements and offers a pack reward, contributing to the overall value of the Player Pick.
Gold Challenge
Exchange a Squad featuring Gold Players.
6,800
5,800
Requirements
- •Exactly 9 Players Rare
- •Exactly Gold Players
Gold Challenge
Exchange a Squad featuring Gold Players.
6,800
5,800
Requirements
- •Exactly 9 Players Rare
- •Exactly Gold Players
Is the 1 of 3 85+ Player Pick SBC Worth It? (Rewards & Cost Analysis)
The primary reward for completing the 1 of 3 85+ Player Pick SBC is, of course, the 1 of 3 85+ Rare Gold Players pick. This is where the real value lies, as a successful pick can yield a highly sought-after player for your squad or significant fodder for future high-end SBCs. The current estimated cost for this SBC is around 13,600 on console and 11,600 on PC, making it a relatively affordable gamble for a high-rated player.
In addition to the Player Pick, you'll also receive a Silver Pack and a Small Silver Players Pack as challenge rewards. While these packs aren't usually groundbreaking, they can provide some valuable silver fodder or even a surprise inform. Considering the potential return from the Player Pick, the overall rewards value, estimated at 0, makes this SBC an attractive proposition, especially if you have untradeable cards to use.
Repeatability and End Date
Good news, managers! This 1 of 3 85+ Player Pick SBC is repeatable 3 times, giving you multiple chances to land a top-tier player. This repeatability significantly increases its overall appeal, allowing you to invest more if your first pick isn't what you hoped for. Make sure to complete it before it expires on January 6, 2026, at 6 PM UTC.