FC26 Nico Paz Cornerstones SBC: Player Cost, Solutions, and More

With the EA SPORTS FC™ 26 Ultimate Team in full swing, the Cornerstones campaign continues to highlight players who form the core of their squads. Among them is Nico Paz, a rising Argentine talent whose Squad Building Challenge (SBC) has been released as part of the promo’s second week. This 21-year-old has been instrumental for Serie A’s Como, contributing both goals and creative play under manager Cesc Fàbregas. His new 85-rated Cornerstones card offers a dynamic midfield option for Ultimate Team players, blending height with technical fluency. Here’s a complete guide to the SBC, including solutions, stats, and whether he’s worth the investment.

Player Card and Stats Analysis

➤ Key Attributes

Nico Paz’s Cornerstones card is an 85-rated Central Attacking Midfielder (CAM).

Standing at 6’1" (186cm), Paz is unusually tall for a CAM yet retains agility on the ball, making him a unique presence in midfield. He boasts 4-star Skill Moves and a 3-star Weak Foot, along with a Left foot preference.

➤ Technical Traits and PlayStyles

·His PlayStyles include:

Finesse Shot

Incisive Pass

Inventive

Technical

Dead Ball (for set-piece expertise)

·Paz excels in key in-game attributes relevant to his creative role:

Finishing: 85

Long Shots: 86

Short/Long Pass: 89/87

Ball Control/Dribbling: 89/89

Stamina: 82

While he lacks PlayStyle+, his base traits are well-suited for a creative midfielder, enabling curled shots, incisive through balls, and smooth ball-carrying. The card also features Playmaker++ and Shadow Striker+ roles, encouraging roaming and late runs into the box.

 

SBC Requirements and Cost Analysis

➤ Task List

To obtain Nico Paz, you must complete four squads:

·84-Rated Squad

Reward: Gold Pack (Tradeable)

·83-Rated Squad

Reward: Small Electrum Players Pack (Tradeable)

·Serie A Squad

Min. 82 Team Rating + 1 Serie A Player

Reward: x2 Players Pack (Tradeable)

·Argentina Squad

Min. 81 Team Rating + 1 Argentina Player

Reward: x2 Players Pack (Tradeable)

➤ Cost Estimate

The total cost is estimated at ~33,000–35,000 coins, varying by platform and market fluctuations. The SBC is not repeatable and expires on October 6, 2025. Pack rewards can offset the cost if you pack valuable players.

 

Recommended Squad Solutions

Build these squads using cheap, high-rated fodder. Here are budget-friendly suggestions:

➤84-Rated Squad:

➤83-Rated Squad:

➤Serie A Squad:

Min. 82 OVR team rating

Min. 1 Serie A player

➤Argentina Squad:

Min. 81 OVR team rating

Min. 1 Argentina player

Tip: Check your club for unused players to reduce coin spending.

 

In-Game Performance and Chemistry Style Recommendations

➤ Strengths and Weaknesses Analysis

·Strengths:

Creative Powerhouse: With 89 Short Passing, 86 Dribbling, and traits like Incisive Pass and Technical, Paz dictates play in the final third.

Physical Presence: His 6’1" frame and 70 Strength help him shield the ball under pressure.

Set-Piece Threat: Dead Ball PlayStyle enhances free-kick accuracy.

·Weaknesses:

No PlayStyle+: Lacks the elite boosts some promo cards offer.

Defensive Contribution: Low DEF limits his defensive utility.

➤ Chemistry Style Choice

Engine: Boosts Pace, Passing, and Dribbling—ideal for maximizing his agility and creative output.

Maestro: Enhances Shooting, Passing, and Dribbling, fitting for a CAM-focused role.

 

Value Summary and Final Recommendation

Priced at ~33,000 coins, Nico Paz’s SBC is a cost-effective option for early-game squads. His stats and PlayStyles make him a versatile attacker capable of scoring finesse shots, delivering key passes, and maneuvering in tight spaces. The included packs partially refund your investment, and his Permanent +2 Club Chemistry as a Cornerstones card aids squad-building flexibility.

·Worth Completing If:

• You run a Serie A or Argentina-themed squad.
• You need a tall, creative CAM/CM with 4-star skills.
• You have spare fodder to lower the coin cost.

·Skip If:

• You prioritize PlayStyle+ traits or a stronger weak foot.
• Your resources are limited, and you prefer meta-defining cards.
• For a modest price, Nico Paz delivers excellent value as a midfield maestro who can single-handedly elevate your attack.