Following the reveal of the cover for the Ultimate Edition of FC 27, EA SPORTS has also unveiled the cover for the Standard Edition—including a hint that confirms the biggest rumor surrounding the franchise spin-off.
There had been much speculation about the introduction of an open world in EA SPORTS, a feature that hadn’t made it into the soccer simulation—yet. Because, as EA SPORTS confirmed on Wednesday with a small hint, the open game world will make its debut in FC 27. This is evident from a post by the developer on social media showing the cover of the Standard Edition of FC 27.
As seen on the Ultimate Edition, Kylian Mbappé is featured on the cover. However, the caption is key. It reads, “Build from The Grounds up.” The capital letters in “The Grounds” are likely intentional. After all, EA SPORTS registered exactly this name as a trademark on January 23.
Gameplay tests also suggest that an open world lies behind this. Last November, the developer let users try out “a future, world-based soccer experience.” Combined with the cover, which shows the French star in front of a major city with various soccer fields, this is a clear sign.
Ted Lasso and Alex Hunter in the Spotlight
However, the allusion to the new game world isn’t the only interesting clue revealed by the new cover. The image itself also hides a few Easter eggs. Among them is the crest of the fictional club AFC Richmond from the TV series *Ted Lasso*, which made its series debut in *FIFA 23*.
Furthermore, rumors about the return of Alex Hunter also seem to be confirmed. The fictional character played the lead role in the story mode *The Journey*, which debuted in *FIFA 17* and spanned three installments of the series. He subsequently made a guest appearance in the story mode of *VOLTA* and was also playable for a time in *Ultimate Team* and Career Mode. Now, the Englishman appears to be returning in *The Grounds*.
Built from *The Grounds* up.& lt;br>
The FC27 Standard Edition is here. See the full reveal on July 23: https://t.co/6QAaAVGU75 pic.twitter.com/8I0PGP49SX— EA SPORTS FC (@EASPORTSFC) July 22, 2026
At least, that’s what a skydiver landing in the game world behind Mbappé seems to suggest. He has the number 29 on his parachute—the number with which Hunter once made his mark in FIFA. Incidentally, this is also what inspired French national team player Bradley Barcola when he chose his jersey number.
FUT Gallery and new Ultimate Edition hinted at
However, Hunter won’t be the only comeback in FC 27. An old mechanic, the FUT Gallery, also appears to be making a return. This is a Panini-style sticker album reminiscent of the earliest FUT versions from over 15 years ago, though it might get a twist in FC 27. However, there’s no official information on this yet.
Furthermore, a possible third cover can be seen in the background, featuring Mbappé and Jude Bellingham. Its style is similar to that of the Ultimate Edition cover, which is also visible. This would confirm the rumors of a third version of the game. In recent days, insider reports about an “Ultimate Edition+” have been piling up.
Finally, upon closer inspection, two possible customization options can also be spotted: On one hand, various retro jerseys are hanging on a clothesline. On the other hand, mascots can be seen at the edge of a soccer field.