Paolo Maldini vs Raphaël Varane in EA FC 27: which card is better?

This is a head-to-head between two Base Icon centre-backs in FC 27 Ultimate Team: Paolo Maldini at 93 overall and Raphaël Varane at 88. Both play CB, both use a right foot, and both are eligible for Evolutions, so the real question is what each one does better at the back.

Maldini is ahead on every face stat that matters for a defender: DEF 95 against 88, PAS 75 against 66 and PHY 84 against 83, with PAC 85 against 84. His Intercept PlayStyle+ and Slide Tackle give him more ways to win the ball, and he can also cover LB. Varane brings a taller 186-versus-191 frame, Block and Quick Step, and strength 88, so he suits a deeper line built around aerial duels. If you want the stronger defender, I would pick Maldini; Varane is the one for a tall, physical back line.

Pick Maldini if you want the best all-round defender and the option to play LB. Choose Varane if you prefer a taller centre-back with Block and Quick Step.