EA FC 26's Up in the Air Evolution is a free, impactful upgrade in Ultimate Team that transforms players into aerial powerhouses. To maximize this evolution, you need to FC 26 Coins choose players who complement its strengths. The evolution has strict requirements: a maximum 84 overall rating, no more than 10 playstyles, and no goalkeepers.

Defenders: Aerial Fortresses to Secure Your Backline

Defenders benefit most from the Up in the Air Evolution's Aerial Fortress playstyle and stat boosts, turning them into immovable objects in the box. These players excel at clearing dangerous crosses, winning contested headers, and neutralizing opposition aerial threats.

Eric Dier is a top choice for center-back. His base card already boasts solid defensive awareness, and the evolution elevates his aerial capabilities to new heights. With the +20 jump and +20 heading accuracy boosts, he becomes nearly unbeatable in air duels, while the +10 strength and aggression make him tough to push off the ballHis versati.

Zagadou is another defensive standout. A tall, physical center-back, he thrives on aerial dominance even before the evolution. The upgrades push his jumping to near 90 and heading accuracy to 88, making him a nightmare for opposing strikers on set piecesHis strong base pace also ensures he can keep up with faster attackers, balancing aerial strength with defensive mobility.

Dante (Time Warp) offers experience and reliability. Though his base pace is modest, the evolution's focus on physical stats turns him into a rock in the air. His high defensive positioning, combined with the new Aerial Fortress playstyle, makes him ideal for teams that prioritize a solid, organized backline.

Midfielders: Aerial Controllers to Dominate the Middle

Midfielders in Up in the Air Evolution become dual threats: they can win aerial battles to regain possession and contribute to attacks with powerful headers. These players bridge the gap between defense and attack, using their elevated aerial stats to control the tempo.

Patrick Vieira is a midfield legend reborn with this evolution. Already a dominant physical presence, the upgrades amplify his strengths: +20 jumping and heading accuracy turn him into a aerial juggernaut, while +10 strength and aggression make him unstoppable in 50/50 challenges. His defensive work rate and passing ability mean he can both break up attacks and launch counterattacks after winning headers.

Elliot Anderson is a young gem perfect for this evolution. His base card has impressive potential, and the aerial upgrades make him a versatile box-to-box midfielder. With boosted jumping and heading accuracy, he can contribute goals from corners and free kicks, while his energy and dribbling keep him effective on the ground.

Julian Ryerson is an underrated pick for right-back or defensive midfield. His well-rounded base stats, combined with the evolution's aerial boosts, make him a reliable utility player. He excels at winning aerial duels on the flanks and can even push forward to deliver crosses for your attackers.

Forwards: Aerial Threats to Finish Set Pieces

Forwards using Up in the Air Evolution become deadly on set pieces, thanks to the Precision Header playstyle and massive heading accuracy and jumping boosts. These players turn crosses and corners into guaranteed goal-scoring opportunities.

Bouaddi is a top forward choice for this evolution. His base card has strong finishing and movement, and the aerial upgrades take his game to the next level. With 88 heading accuracy and 90 jumping after the evolution, he can rise above any defender to nod home crosses or penalties. The Precision Header playstyle ensures his headers are consistent and on target.

Grawe is another exceptional forward option. A powerful striker with a knack for aerial finishes, he benefits greatly from the evolution's stat boosts. His strength (87 after upgrade) allows him to hold off defenders while jumping, and his heading accuracy makes him a go-to target for set pieces. He can also drop deep to win aerial duels and link up with midfielders, adding versatility to your attack.

Vitor Reis rounds out the top forward picks. A tall, physical striker, he is built for aerial dominance. The evolution turns him into a specialist in set-piece finishing, with his jumping and heading accuracy making him nearly unmarkable in the box. He also has solid pace, allowing him to get in behind defenders and finish with Fut Coins for sale headers on the break.