FC 27 Destined for Glory: Team 1 Players, Upgrade Paths & My Best Picks

Cjacker

The first major promo of a new Ultimate Team cycle is always exciting, but Destined for Glory in EA SPORTS FC 27 feels different. These cards are not just boosted versions released for hype, they can improve depending on real-life domestic league performances.

After testing Team 1 and looking through the available players, I think this promo is worth paying attention to, but it’s also important not to spend your entire budget too early. Some cards could become incredible upgrades, while others may never reach their full potential.

How Destined for Glory Upgrades Work?
Destined for Glory players receive upgrades based on domestic league performances starting from September 25, 2026.

For attackers and midfielders:

• 3 combined goals and assists: +1 Shooting and Passing

• 6 combined goals and assists: +1 PlayStyle

• 10 combined goals and assists: +1 Overall Rating

• 20 combined goals and assists: another +1 Overall Rating

For defenders and CDMs:

• 2 clean sheets: +1 Defending and Physical

• 4 clean sheets: +1 PlayStyle

• 6 clean sheets: +1 Overall Rating

• 10 clean sheets: another +1 Overall Rating

Only domestic league matches count. Cup games and European competitions will not contribute toward upgrades. Also, players who transfer or move on loan may lose upgrade eligibility.

Because of this, I would always check upcoming fixtures before investing. A forward playing for a strong attacking team usually has a clearer upgrade path than a defender from a team that struggles defensively.

My Favorite Destined for Glory Team 1 Players
Kylian Mbappé (91 OVR, Real Madrid)
Mbappé is obviously the biggest name in Team 1. His price will be extremely high, so he is not realistic for every player. However, his role at Real Madrid gives him a strong chance of meeting some upgrade requirements. If you have enough budget, waiting for a market drop could be smarter than buying immediately after rewards.

Alexander Isak (88 OVR, Liverpool)
Isak is one of the more interesting options from Team 1. His combination of size, pace, and finishing makes him a strong attacking choice, especially for players looking for a striker who can perform both inside and outside the box.

Morgan Rogers (87 OVR, Chelsea)
Rogers is one of the cards I personally enjoy using. His movement and dribbling make him effective in the current FC 27 gameplay style, where quick reactions and player control matter more. For players who cannot afford elite-level cards, he could be a very useful option.

Nuno Mendes (89 OVR, PSG)
For defensive upgrades, Nuno Mendes stands out. Fast full-backs are extremely valuable in FC 27 because defending requires more manual positioning this year.

A reliable left-back can make a bigger difference than many people expect.

According to leaks from sources such as Realsport101 and Insider Gaming, players like Renato Veiga (84 OVR), Antonio Nusa (85 OVR), and Davide Frattesi (85 OVR) could also appear. Among them, Nusa is probably the most interesting budget option.With 88 Pace, 88 Dribbling, Quick Step, Rapid PlayStyles, he looks like a perfect impact substitute or a starter option for weaker squads.

Renato Veiga could also be valuable for players who need an affordable centre-back. His height, physical stats, and defensive ability make him a practical choice without spending a huge amount of resources.

Should You Spend Your FC 27 Coins Now?
I would avoid spending everything on SBC fodder or overpriced cards immediately. The new score-based SBC system makes completing challenges easier because duplicates can be used more efficiently. Saving resources for future releases may be the better strategy.

If you are looking for additional budget options or want to manage your Ultimate Team upgrades efficiently, planning your spending is important. Some players choose to buy FC 27 Coins to strengthen their squad faster, but the most important thing is still choosing the right players.

The Destined for Glory Exhibition mode gives you 10 daily attempts. A few things I recommend,complete your daily matches early. Use Destined for Glory players to unlock additional rewards. Focus on manual defending because FC 27 reduces some CPU defensive assistance compared with previous years.

Destined for Glory Team 1 is a strong opening promo, but there is no reason to rush. My current priority would be:

• Budget players: Antonio Nusa and Renato Veiga

• Mid-range options: Isak and Morgan Rogers

• High-budget target: Mbappé

The upgrade system rewards patience, so keeping some resources for Team 2 on October 2 could be the smarter move.