FM26: Free Agents XI

With FM26 now in our hands, one of the first things every manager loves to do is scout the free agent list for hidden gems, those seasoned pros or undervalued talents who can make an instant impact without costing a penny. 
Here is the Free Agents XI available right at the start of Football Manager 26. We’ve got experience, versatility and a few cult heroes thrown in for good measure. Let’s get straight into it:

GK: 🇵🇹 Rui Patrício (37yo)

A legend between the posts.

With 108 caps for Portugal, Rui Patrício is one of the most accomplished goalkeepers you can pick up on a free.

At 37, he might only have a year or two left at the top, but his attributes still hold strong: Reflexes (14), Handling (13), and elite Communication make him a safe pair of hands. After spells at Sporting CP, Wolves, Roma, and a stint in the UAE, he’s ready for one last challenge. A superb short-term signing for any top-flight side needing experience at the back.

RB: 🇯🇵 Takehiro Tomiyasu (26yo)

A younger, more versatile option.

Former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is a brilliant free pick-up if you can get him. He can play anywhere across the back line, which makes him invaluable.

He’s technically sound, mentally strong, and though he’s recovering from a long-term injury, he still brings teamwork, determination, and defensive awareness in abundance. At only 26, he’s got plenty left in the tank: ideal for a rebuild or mid-table club looking for stability.

LB: 🇪🇸 Sergio Reguilón (28yo)

Another ex-Premier League face.

Sergio Reguilón was once one of the brightest left-backs in Spain, coming through Real Madrid’s academy before joining Tottenham. After spells at Manchester United and Brentford, he’s now available for free and still offers great pace, technical ability, and stamina.

At 28, he’s a great pickup for top-division teams needing depth or a first-choice full-back. He’s comfortable pushing forward or staying disciplined in defense, making him a balanced option down the left.

CB: 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Liam Cooper (34yo)

Every good FM squad needs a steady veteran.

Liam Cooper, long-time Leeds United captain, brings leadership and reliability. He’s not flashy, but his Positioning, Determination, and Tackling make him perfect for lower top-flight or Championship-level sides.

After over a decade at Leeds, he’s spent some time abroad but still has the mentality and experience to organize a backline. A great free option if you’re looking for depth and leadership.

CB: 🇧🇪 Jason Denayer (30yo)

Still only 30 and still a rock.

Former Manchester City and Lyon defender Jason Denayer has plenty to offer. With Heading, Marking, and Tackling all solid, plus good Strength (16) and Stamina (13), he’s a great fit for any club outside the elite chasing consistency at the back.

He’s had spells in England, France, and the Middle East, and his 35 caps for Belgium show his pedigree. Reliable, experienced, and surprisingly athletic for a free agent.

DM: 🇧🇷 Fernandinho (40yo)

The eternal professional.

Yes, 40 years old, but Fernandinho still looks magnificent on FM26. His physicals are declining, but mentally he’s still world-class: Composure, Concentration, Determination, Teamwork, and Work Rate all in the mid to high teens.

For one season of leadership, intelligence, and security in front of your defense, there’s no better free pick-up. A perfect mentor for younger midfielders too.

CM: 🇧🇦 Miralem Pjanić (35yo)

A set-piece master and classy playmaker.

Miralem Pjanić is exactly what you want if you need creativity and control from deep. At 35, his Pace is gone, but his Passing (16), Technique (17) and Vision (16) remain elite.

He’s also a deadly free-kick and corner taker: a luxury player who can still run the show in a slower league or as part of a possession-heavy system.

CM: 🇧🇷 Rafinha (32yo)

A silky technician with a glittering past.

The former Barcelona and PSG man Rafinha still boasts excellent technicals: First Touch (16), Passing (16), Technique (17), and Vision (16).

He’s spent recent years in Qatar, but on FM26 he’s a smart signing for mid-table teams looking for a creative spark. A couple of seasons of flair and experience guaranteed.

RW: 🇲🇦 Hakim Ziyech (32yo)

The star of the team.

At 32, Hakim Ziyech still looks absolutely brilliant. He’s versatile, able to play on either wing or as an attacking midfielder. With Crossing (16), Passing (16), Technique (18), and Vision (17), he’s a nightmare for defenders.

Don’t expect him to burst past full-backs anymore, but his flair and creativity make him one of the best free agents available at the start of FM26. A perfect signing for clubs that value technical football and set pieces.

LW: 🇫🇷 Dimitri Payet (38yo)

Still magic on the ball.
 

Dimitri Payet might be 38, but he’s every bit as elegant as ever. He can cross, dribble, pass, and hit a long shot like few others. Long Shots (16), Free Kicks (17), and Technique (16) make him a joy to watch and he’ll still create goals for fun in the right setup.

After lighting up West Ham and Marseille and even a spell in Brazil, Payet is the perfect short-term signing for a team looking to add a touch of class.

ST: 🇮🇹 Mario Balotelli (35yo)

You can’t have a list like this without Super Mario.
 

At 35, Balotelli remains as unpredictable and as talented as ever. Finishing (15), First Touch (15), and Strength (17) make him a physical and clinical striker for any side needing goals.

He’s bounced around clubs in Italy, France, Turkey, and Switzerland, but on FM26, he’s still good enough to lead the line for a mid-tier top-division team. And let’s be honest: who doesn’t want a bit of Balotelli chaos in their save?