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 FC 26 Coins rising stars and established leaders, all given early-season boosted ratings that make them standout options in 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.

What is Cornerstones Team 1?

Cornerstones Team 1 is the first wave of a new promo highlighting footballers who are crucial to their clubs—whether through leadership, consistency, or rising star potential. Unlike promos that push players to 90+ overall ratings right away, Cornerstones focuses on boosted but realistic cards, giving many mid-80 OVR players their first special item of the cycle.

The beauty of Cornerstones lies in balance: these cards are competitive but not game-breaking, offering a fair middle ground for both casual and competitive players to build around.

Best Position: RW or LW in wide formations like 4-3-3.

Chemistry Links: Strong La Liga links, particularly with Valverde.

Gameplay Tip: Equip Deadeye chemistry style to sharpen his shooting and passing, making him more than just a sprinter.

Hidden Gems in Cornerstones Team 1

While the top five dominate the headlines, Cornerstones Team 1 also includes several underrated cards worth considering:

Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United, LW – 86 OVR) – Explosive winger, cheaper alternative to Nico Williams.

João Palhinha (Fulham, CDM – 86 OVR) – A defensive powerhouse in midfield, perfect for those who need a destroyer.

William Saliba (Arsenal, CB – 87 OVR) – Strong, tall, and fast. One of the best early-game CBs in Ultimate Team.

Loïs Openda (RB Leipzig, ST – 86 OVR) – A striker with blistering pace who thrives in cheap EA FC Coins through-ball meta playstyles.