eFootball 2026 Big Time & Show Time Living Legends ft. Messi and Ronaldo pack: Review, Best Progression Builds, and Skills

It looks like eFootball 2026 will continue releasing special packs based on major football events, and their latest offering, ‘Living Legends,’ is a big one. This pack is particularly exciting because it features iconic players who were stars of a generation.

The biggest stars are Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, both getting special ‘Big Time’ cards. Joining them are Neymar Jr., Kevin De Bruyne, Luka Modrić, James Rodríguez, and Manuel Neuer, rounding out a fantastic group of ‘Show Time’ selections.

Okay, so this new pack is HUGE – it’s got 250 players! Before anyone drops a ton of Coins on it, I wanted to share what I’ve found about how these ‘Living Legends’ cards actually play in eFootball 2026. I’ll walk you through the best ways to develop each player, which skills they should focus on, and ultimately, whether I think this pack is worth getting.

eFootball 2026 Big Time & Show Time Living Legends 2026 players

Lionel Messi

  • Position: SS
  • Playing Style: Deep-Lying Forward
  • Show Time Skills: Momentum Dribbling, Edged Crossing, and Magnetic Feet

As a huge Messi fan, this new card really stands out! What’s cool about it is how his playstyle forces you to rethink how you use him in your team. Unlike the other Messi cards I’ve used – like his Show Time version which always pushes forward – this Deep-Lying Forward actually plays much deeper and differently. It’s a totally fresh approach, and I’m excited to try it out!

He still has excellent close control, passing, dribbling, and shooting skills, and the ‘Magnetic Feet’ ability makes him even more of a threat. This card celebrates his performance against England in the 2026 World Cup Semi-Final, and includes the benefits of ‘Edged Crossing’ and very precise weak-foot shooting.

What really stands out is how well-rounded this card is physically. It’s noticeably more balanced and strong than some older Messi cards, meaning he’ll be better at holding onto the ball. Plus, the ‘Magnetic Feet’ ability further enhances his physical play, making this a fantastic card for players.

What I really love about this card is how versatile it is. You can use him in so many different ways! I’ve been playing him as a shadow striker behind the forwards, but he’s also amazing in the center of midfield, dictating play. You can even push him out wide if that suits your team better. Being the highest-rated card, he’s got incredible playmaking abilities, so figuring out the perfect role for him is key to getting the most out of him.

Suggested Skills: Long Range Shooting, Sole Control, Outside Curler, Marseille Turn, Fighting Spirit

Suggested Progression Points Allocation for Lionel Messi

Shooting Passing Dribbling Dexterity Lower Body Strength Aerial Strength Defending GK 1/2/3
5 4 4 11 11 5 0 0

Cristiano Ronaldo

  • Position: CF
  • Playing Style: Goal Poacher
  • Show Time Skills: Phenomenal Finishing, Bullet Header, and Low Screamer

This Ronaldo card really captures what people expect from him – a pure goal scorer. It’s all about getting him into the right place at the right time and letting him finish. The combination of his traits – like being a natural goal poacher with excellent finishing and heading ability – is exactly what Ronaldo fans want to see.

He’s a dangerous player in the box thanks to his powerful shot, ability to win headers, and strong physique. The nickname ‘Bullet Header’ is perfect for him, as he’s always been excellent in the air. Combined with his incredible finishing and low, driven shots, he can score in a variety of ways and consistently trouble opposing defenses.

Okay, so this player isn’t the type you use to constantly weave through defenders – he’s not a super agile, quick forward. Even with his stats boosted into the 90s, I still felt limited trying to play him that way. Honestly, he’s definitely not a card you build your whole team around at the very end of the game, and that makes sense.

Suggested Skills: One Touch Pass, Double Touch, Sole Control, Acrobatic Finishing, Long-Range Curler

Suggested Progression Points Allocation for Cristiano Ronaldo

Shooting Passing Dribbling Dexterity Lower Body Strength Aerial Strength Defending GK 1/2/3
6 0 9 10 8 6 0 1/0/0

Manuel Neuer

  • Position: GK
  • Playing Style: Offensive Goalkeeper
  • Show Time Skills: Visionary Pass and GK Directing Defence

Manuel Neuer isn’t just judged on numbers – his unique playing style is key. This card perfectly captures what makes him special as a ‘sweeper-keeper,’ arguably the most authentic representation in the game. His height and long reach are crucial, as they enhance his natural movements and positioning within the game.

The stats speak for themselves – this goalkeeper is incredibly strong at the end of the game. Even though a passing boost doesn’t improve their goalkeeping ability, they excel in all areas. The main thing with offensive goalkeepers is getting used to how they position themselves. If you prefer a goalkeeper who stays firmly on the goal line, this style might not suit you.

If you prefer a team that builds play from the defense with a goalkeeper who actively participates, Manuel Neuer is a truly one-of-a-kind choice.

Suggested Progression Points Allocation for Manuel Neuer

GK 1 GK 2 GK 3
10 9 11

Neymar Jr

  • Position: LWF
  • Playing Style: Roaming Flank
  • Show Time Skills: Acceleration Burst and Blitz Curler

This Neymar isn’t among the very best versions in the game, but he’s still enjoyable to play with. He’s a well-rounded card that might not have incredible dribbling anymore, but excels at passing and holding onto the ball. The Acceleration Burst trait is a nice addition, giving him a boost when driving forward.

I find the Blitz Curler effective when used by a roaming flank player. This shooting ability provides an extra threat when they move towards the center of the field. It allows them to drive inside, link up with midfielders, and really showcase their abilities – which is exactly how this skill should be used.

The main drawback, typical of Neymar cards, is his physical strength. While he has great balance and feels responsive with the ball, he’s not ideal for direct confrontations with defenders. This card is best suited for players who love dribbling, setting up plays, and using skillful moves – it’s a really enjoyable option for that style of play.

Suggested Skills: First Time Shot, Sole Control, Marseille Turn, Long Range Shooting, Outside Curler

Suggested Progression Points Allocation for Neymar Jr

Shooting Passing Dribbling Dexterity Lower Body Strength Aerial Strength Defending GK 1/2/3
7 4 7 11 11 0 0 0/0/0

Kevin De Bruyne

  • Position: AMF
  • Playing Style: Creative Playmaker
  • Show Time Skills: Visionary Pass and Low Screamer

This player card is a reliable and creative playmaker, excelling at both passing and shooting. The ‘Visionary Pass’ ability, combined with his already strong passing stats, makes him a significant chance creator, and he has a decent shot power for occasional long-range goals. He has well-rounded stats overall, and this version allows him to reach speeds in the 90s, as well as achieve ball control stats in the 90s.

Remember, he’s primarily a creative player who focuses on building up attacks rather than making direct runs towards the goal. To get the most out of him, include him in your team’s passing plays and let him control the pace of the game. Also, his shooting ability is surprisingly strong – it really makes a difference in my setup, so I recommend giving it a try.

Suggested Skills: Double Touch, First Time Shot, Flip Flap, Low Lofted Pass, Fighting Spirit

Suggested Progression Points Allocation for Kevin De Bruyne

Shooting Passing Dribbling Dexterity Lower Body Strength Aerial Strength Defending GK 1/2/3
4 4 7 11 11 0 0 0/0/0

Luka Modric

  • Position: CMF
  • Playing Style: Orchestrator
  • Show Time Skills: Attack Trigger and Phenomenal Pass

Okay, so this card feels like a real engine in midfield. He’s amazing at keeping the ball close to him even when pressured, and he’s surprisingly good defensively too. Basically, he’s the guy you want on the ball to dictate play – he can receive it, shrug off defenders, and keep the attack flowing. Even now, his close control is still top-notch, and you can really feel that when you’re playing with him.

Modric isn’t a physically imposing midfielder, and that’s something to keep in mind when you play him. He excels by being smart, positioning himself well, and having excellent technique. To balance things out, it’s best to pair him with a more physically strong player. Also, utilizing the ‘Show Time’ skill combo can be very effective, especially when responding to your opponent’s moves.

Suggested Skills: Long Range Shooting, Sole Control, Low Lofted Pass, Man Marking, Blocker

Suggested Progression Points Allocation for Luka Modric

Shooting Passing Dribbling Dexterity Lower Body Strength Aerial Strength Defending GK 1/2/3
0 5 8 8 12 2 8 0/0/0

James Rodriguez

  • Position: RWF
  • Playing Style: Creative Playmaker
  • Show Time Skills: Edged Crossing and Blitz Curler

He starts with excellent stats and useful skills. Like other Creative Playmakers, he’s designed for building attacks, but should be more dynamic than De Bruyne. While his Edged Crossing ability is strong, his weaker left foot and inconsistent accuracy mean he’s best played on the left wing. However, doing that limits his use of the powerful Blitz Curler, making the Advanced Midfielder (AMF) position the most effective choice.

What stands out most is that he isn’t as fast or explosive as many wingers in the game today. He’s not a player you’d rely on to simply run past defenders. Instead, his strength lies in his playmaking, passing ability, and having a dangerous left foot. I think a lot of players will really appreciate his different style of play.

Suggested Skills: First Time Shot, Sole Control, Flip Flap, Marseille Turn, Fighting Spirit

Suggested Progression Points Allocation for James Rodriguez

Shooting Passing Dribbling Dexterity Lower Body Strength Aerial Strength Defending GK 1/2/3
4 4 10 10 11 3 0 0/0/0

Should you spin for the Big Time & Show Time Living Legends 2026 pack in eFootball

This pack was expensive, but totally worth it! However, it’s not something you need to spend everything on. The fact that it doesn’t include many defensive players is disappointing – I understand why, considering they’re top-tier – but in eFootball, having a team full of these star attackers isn’t very useful.

Tier Players
SSS (Endgame) Lionel Messi, Manuel Neuer, Cristiano Ronaldo
SS (Excellent) Neymar Jr., Kevin De Bruyne, Luka Modrić, James Rodríguez
S (Strong) None
A (Good) None
B (Average) None
C (Below Average) None

Pack Rating: 3.5 out of 5

2026-07-28 16:16