Unlocking the Potential of Messi in TOTY: A Gamer’s Guide
The world of FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) is always buzzing with excitement, especially when it comes to the annual Team of the Year (TOTY) event. For gamers, the TOTY event is a golden opportunity to unlock some of the most iconic players in the game, and few names shine brighter than Lionel Messi. In this article, we’ll explore how to make the most of Messi in TOTY, strategies to dominate the game, and how to build a formidable squad around this football legend.
Why Messi in TOTY is a Game-Changer
Lionel Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, and his in-game stats reflect his real-life brilliance. In the TOTY version, Messi is often boosted to 99-rated, making him a near-unstoppable force on the pitch. His exceptional dribbling, lightning-fast speed, and pinpoint accuracy allow players to control the game with precision.
For gamers, having Messi in TOTY is not just about bragging rights; it’s about unlocking a new level of gameplay. His ability to dribble past defenders with ease and score from any angle makes him a nightmare for opponents. Whether you’re playing in Divisions, FUT Champions, or friendlies, Messi can be the difference-maker in your squad.
How to Choose the Right Version of Messi
While the TOTY version of Messi is the most sought-after, it’s also the most expensive. For many gamers, dropping millions of coins on a single player isn’t feasible. The good news is that there are plenty of alternative versions of Messi that can still dominate the game.
Base Card Messi: A cost-effective option with solid stats, perfect for early-game squads.
Mid-Season Messi: Offers improved stats at a lower price point than TOTY.
TOTY Messi: The ultimate version for those willing to invest.
Tip: If you’re on a budget, consider waiting for price drops or using SBCs (Squad Building Challenges) to unlock Messi at a discount.
Building a Squad Around Messi
Having Messi is one thing, but building a balanced squad around him is key to maximizing his potential. Here’s how to create a cohesive team:
Chemistry and Positioning: Messi excels as a left forward or attacking midfielder. Pair him with players who share his nationality (Argentine) or league (Ligue 1) for max chemistry.
Pace and Skill: Surround Messi with fast, skilled players who can keep up with his playstyle. Kylian Mbappé or Neymar Jr. are excellent choices.
Defensive Solidity: A strong defense is crucial to support Messi’s attacking prowess. Opt for high-rated center-backs and a reliable goalkeeper.
Mastering Messi’s Playstyle
To get the most out of Messi, you need to play to his strengths:
Dribbling: Use Messi’s 5-star skills to embarrass defenders. Techniques like La Croqueta and Elastico are particularly effective.
Finishing: Messi’s 99 finishing makes him a clinical striker. Look for opportunities to shoot from inside the box or use his weak foot to catch goalkeepers off guard.
Passing: Messi’s vision and passing range make him an excellent playmaker. Use him to pick out teammates with through balls or cross-field passes.
Pro Tip: Experiment with custom tactics to maximize Messi’s impact. Set his attacking runs to “Stay Forward” to keep him in advanced positions.
Case Study: Building a Messi-Centric Squad
Let’s take a look at how one FUT player dominated the competition with a Messi-led squad:
Formation: 4-2-3-1 (Narrow)
Strikers: Messi (TOTY) as ST
Midfield: Mbappé (Ligue 1) as CAM, Paul Pogba as CDM
Defense: Virgil van Dijk and Sergio Ramos as CBs
Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak
This squad combines attacking flair with defensive stability, allowing Messi to thrive as the focal point.
Conclusion
Messi in TOTY is more than just a player card; he’s a game-changing asset that can