eFootball 2026 launches with major update, new Link-Up Play feature, and free daily game cards

The question on every former PES fan’s mind has been simple: will eFootball ever be worth their time again? Konami is hoping to answer that with the launch of eFootball 2026, now live on Xbox, PlayStation, PC, and mobile.

The version 5.5.0 update delivers the game’s boldest overhaul yet, introducing the brand-new Link-Up Play manager system, deep stadium customisation, ambassador packs, and an expanded set of daily game cards — all part of the title’s 30th-anniversary celebrations.

A fresh tactical layer: Link-Up Play

The headline addition is Link-Up Play, a new manager skill that unlocks special combination plays between specific players.

When you have the right manager, a designated “Center Piece” player, and a “Key Man” with matching play styles, they can trigger pre-set combination moves, adding tactical depth to squad building.

To highlight the feature, legendary coach José Mourinho is available in a special edition pack (£3.98) with the “Diagonal Long Pass A” skill. Epic and Show Time versions of Wesley Sneijder and Samuel Eto’o — players who thrived under Mourinho — will be available from August 15.

Make it your own: stadiums and ambassadors

For the first time, players can customise their home stadium by choosing colours, fan choreography, and decorative items to match their club’s identity.

New ambassador editions include Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, each pack featuring upgraded player cards, training items, and exclusive stadium decorations. Newcomers can unlock a free Show Time Lionel Messi card simply by completing the tutorial.

On-pitch upgrades

Gameplay improvements include more realistic player speed, refined defensive controls, and new set-piece options for mobile users. Konami says these changes aim to make matches feel smoother and more authentic.

Daily game mode gets a big boost

Following the conclusion of eFootball 2025, the daily game mode has been refreshed with two epic, one highlight showtime, and three highlight cards.

Daily games challenge users to score penalty kicks to progress through a reward route, offering skill tokens, position tokens, and free tries at daily game packs. Missing a penalty still moves players forward slightly, ensuring steady progress.

This year’s rewards include Eden Hazard as an epic card unlocked at the completion of the first lap, alongside other notable names.

eFootball 2026 daily game pack card list:

Can eFootball finally win back fans?

When eFootball 2024 launched, it earned a lukewarm 2.5/5 from many reviewers, criticised for offering too little to tempt lapsed players back.

This 2026 update, however, feels like a genuine attempt to change that narrative. With a new tactical system, more personalisation, and stronger rewards for both free-to-play and paying users, it’s the most substantial step the series has taken in years.

Whether it’s enough to rebuild trust is a question only the matches ahead can answer. For now, the new season is live — and Konami has put the ball back at the players’ feet.