EA FC 25 has introduced a slew of exciting new cards and promos this season, but few have captured the attention of Ultimate Team players quite like the new Shapeshifter Baressi. This enigmatic card has quickly become a topic of conversation among FUT enthusiasts, with its unique blend of defensive prowess and versatile positioning. In this review, we'll break down Baressi's Shapeshifter card in detail—examining his stats, playing style, ideal formations, chemistry links, EA FC 25 Coins and overall value in the current meta.
Who Is Baressi? A Quick Background
Before diving into the card specifics, let's recap who Baressi is. Luca Baressi is an up-and-coming defender known for his tactical intelligence, physicality, and clean defensive style. While not the flashiest name in football, his steady rise through the ranks has earned him a loyal following.
The Shapeshifter promo in EA FC 25 aims to reimagine players by shifting their primary or secondary positions, drastically improving their versatility and fitting into new roles. Baressi's Shapeshifter card is no exception, taking what was already a strong defensive player and turning him into a true multi-role asset for your squad.
Key Stats Breakdown: What Makes Shapeshifter Baressi Stand Out?
At first glance, Baressi's Shapeshifter card boasts some impressive stats that make him a defensive powerhouse:
Overall Rating: 94
Position: CDM (originally CB, now shifted to Defensive Midfielder)
Pace: 87 (Acceleration 89 / Sprint Speed 85)
Defending: 95 (Interceptions 94 / Marking 95 / Standing Tackle 96)
Physical: 92 (Strength 95 / Aggression 90 / Stamina 93)
Passing: 88 (Short Passing 90 / Long Passing 85)
Dribbling: 80 (Ball Control 82 / Balance 81)
Position Shift: From Center Back to Defensive Midfielder
The Shapeshifter Baressi's most notable feature is the position change from CB to CDM. This shift opens a new dimension for his gameplay:
CDM Role: Baressi becomes a defensive shield in front of your backline. His exceptional interceptions and tackling stats make him perfect for breaking up play and initiating counterattacks.
Ball Progression: His solid passing stats allow him to distribute the ball efficiently from deep, unlike traditional center backs who may struggle with quick ball movement.
Press Resistance: The physicality and stamina allow Baressi to stay composed under pressure, retain possession, and recover defensively in high-intensity moments.
This position change is a game-changer because it lets Baressi operate in a space where interceptions and quick transitions matter most—right in midfield.
Playing Style: What to Expect on the Pitch
Baressi shines as a defensive midfielder with lockdown capabilities. He's best deployed as a single pivot in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation where his role is primarily:
Breaking up opposition attacks with precise tackles and timely interceptions.
Shielding the back four by closing passing lanes and disrupting buildup play.
Starting quick counters by finding forwards or wide players with crisp short and long passes.
Maintaining stamina and aggression to press and close down opponents continuously.
While not a prolific ball carrier or dribbler, Baressi's composure on the ball under pressure is an asset for maintaining possession and controlling the midfield tempo.
Chemistry Links and Best Formations
Thanks to his position change to CDM, Baressi fits seamlessly into multiple team setups and benefits from versatile chemistry links.
Ideal Formations: 4-3-3 (single pivot), 4-2-3-1 (double pivot), 3-5-2 (midfield anchor)
Strong Chemistry Links: Pair him with other Italian players or Serie A stars for full chemistry boosts. Links to iconic midfielders or defensive players enhance his passing and defensive capabilities.
If you're running a squad heavy on Italian or Serie A players, Baressi's presence not only solidifies your midfield but also boosts the overall chemistry of the team, which is crucial in FUT's gameplay mechanics.
Strengths of Shapeshifter Baressi
Defensive Mastery: With 95+ tackling and marking stats, Baressi is relentless in duels and consistently wins defensive battles.
Physical Presence: His strength and stamina ensure he can outmuscle opponents and sustain high work rates throughout matches.
Positioning and Awareness: His AI positioning reduces the risk of being caught out of place and enhances defensive stability.
Passing Range: His ability to play both short and long passes helps maintain possession and launch counterattacks effectively.
Versatility: As a Shapeshifter card, Baressi's position change makes him a flexible option if you want to switch formations mid-match or adapt to different tactical demands.
Weaknesses and Considerations
Limited Dribbling and Creativity: While competent, Baressi is not a ball-playing midfielder or creative force. He shouldn't be relied on to drive forward or create scoring chances.
Pace Could Be Challenged by Elite Attackers: Although 87 pace is solid for a CDM, some of the fastest wingers or forwards in the meta may outpace him in recovery runs.
No Long-Range Shooting: Baressi isn't going to contribute goals from outside the box; his value is purely defensive and transitional.
How Does Shapeshifter Baressi Compare to Other CDMs?
Compared to other elite CDMs in EA FC 25 Ultimate Team, Baressi offers a unique package of:
Top-tier defending and physical stats rivaling some of the best defensive midfielders.
Better passing and stamina than many traditional center backs turned midfielders.
A favorable price point compared to Icon or Team of the Year CDMs, offering great value.
While he may not have the flair or offensive output of more attack-minded CDMs like Kanté or Busquets, Baressi's lockdown style is perfect for players prioritizing a solid defensive midfield foundation.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Shapeshifter Baressi?
If your FUT squad needs a reliable, intelligent defensive midfielder capable of breaking up play and supporting both defense and attack, Shapeshifter Baressi is an excellent choice. His combination of defensive stats, physicality, and passing range make him a perfect anchor in many formations.
He's especially recommended for:
Players who favor a possession-based or counter-attacking style.
Those running Serie A or Italian-heavy squads.
Gamers looking for a versatile, multi-position player to adapt to tactical changes.
While not flashy or goal-scoring, Baressi's contribution will often go unnoticed until you realize how many dangerous attacks he's stopped or how well he controls the midfield. In a meta often dominated by flashy attackers, this kind of defensive reliability is priceless.
How to Get Shapeshifter Baressi
Baressi's Shapeshifter card is available through specific FUTTIES SBCs or Objectives during the promo window. Given his popularity, his market price can fluctuate, so monitor the transfer market closely or consider completing his SBC early to lock in value.
Summary
Overall: 94-rated Shapeshifter card
Position: CDM (originally CB)
Strengths: Defense, Physical, Passing
Weaknesses: Creativity, Pace against elite attackers
Ideal Role: Defensive Midfielder anchor in 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1
Value: Excellent for Serie A squads and defensive-minded players
Shapeshifter Baressi brings a fresh twist to the defensive midfield role and stands as one of the most versatile and effective cards in EA FC 25 Ultimate Team. If you want to buy FIFA Coins lock down midfield and build from the back with confidence, Baressi is a card worth adding to your squad.
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