Every year in FC 26, hidden gems emerge from lesser-known leagues, offering value beyond their ratings. One FC 26 Coins such card making waves this season is Gaëtan Perrin, a French winger from AJ Auxerre. Sitting at a modest 81 overall rating, Perrin might not catch your eye at first glance—but for smart Ultimate Team managers, he could be the missing piece to a versatile, low-cost squad.
In this blog, we'll break down Gaëtan Perrin's key stats, strengths, weaknesses, chemistry links, and ideal roles. Is he a bench filler or a budget beast? Let's dive in.
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Player Overview: Gaëtan Perrin (81 OVR – LW/RW)
- Club: AJ Auxerre
- League: Ligue 2 (France)
- Nationality: France
- Preferred Foot: Right
- Work Rates: High/High
- Skill Moves: 3★
- Weak Foot: 4★
On paper, Perrin offers a balanced package for a winger—moderate pace, solid dribbling, and surprisingly decent shooting for his rating. His High/High work rate adds dynamism to both flanks, making him valuable for aggressive pressing systems.
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Key In-Game Stats
Let's break down some of Perrin's standout in-game stats:
- Pace – 87:
- Acceleration: 89
- Sprint Speed: 85
Perrin feels quick on the ball, especially in short bursts, making him great for getting behind defenders or executing cut-ins from the wing.
- Dribbling – 83:
- Agility: 86
- Balance: 88
- Ball Control: 81
- Dribbling: 82
These stats make Perrin smooth and responsive in tight areas. He doesn't feel clunky, and his balance makes him great under pressure.
- Shooting – 78:
- Positioning: 82
- Finishing: 78
- Shot Power: 80
- Long Shots: 74
Better than expected. He can finish when given the opportunity, and his 4★ weak foot helps in unpredictable situations.
- Passing – 76:
- Short Passing: 79
- Crossing: 78
- Curve: 76
Perrin isn't just a dribbler—he can contribute to build-up play, especially in a two-winger or wide CAM setup.
- Stamina – 90:
One of his biggest assets. Perrin can run the full 90 minutes, making High/High work rates manageable.
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Strengths: Where Perrin Shines
- Versatility:
Can play LW, RW, LM, CAM, or even as a wide CM in a three-man midfield if needed. That flexibility makes him valuable in custom tactics or off-the-bench scenarios.
- Stamina + Work Rates:
Perrin tracks back, makes runs, and keeps pushing all game. For players using high-press systems, he'll thrive.
- Close Control:
High agility and balance make him slippery in one-on-ones. He's ideal for skilling inside the box or dribbling into space to open lanes.
- Affordability:
Inexpensive compared to meta wingers, Perrin fits perfectly into low-budget Ligue 1 or French-themed squads.
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Weaknesses: Where He Falls Short
- 3★ Skill Moves:
In a skill-heavy meta, limited skill variety holds him back from being a top-tier dribbler. If you rely on skill chains, you might struggle.
- Lack of Physicality:
Standing at 5'6” (167cm), Perrin has low strength and heading ability. He's not built for aerial duels or shoulder-to-shoulder battles.
- League Chemistry:
Being from Ligue 2 makes it harder to link him in hybrids unless you rely on French nationality links or have Icons/Heroes.
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Best Chemistry Styles
To maximize Perrin's impact, consider these chemistry styles:
- Deadeye:
Boosts his passing and shooting, ideal if you want him to operate as a creative CAM or cut-in winger.
- Hunter:
Supercharges pace and finishing, making him a threat on fast breaks or through balls behind high lines.
- Engine:
Adds agility and passing—great for deeper playmakers or central midfield roles in custom formations.
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Best Team Roles and Formations
Perrin excels in the following roles:
- Left Wing in 4-3-3 (4):
Play him as a pacey wide player who can cut inside or stretch the defense.
- Wide CAM in 4-2-3-1:
With High/High work rates, he supports both attack and defense, perfect for balanced systems.
- Super Sub:
His speed and agility make him deadly in the 70th minute against tired fullbacks.
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Top Linkable Players
If you're building a squad around Perrin or just want to link him effectively, consider these options:
- Rayan Cherki (Lyon):
Strong French link with better flair and skill options.
- Kylian Mbappé (PSG):
If you can afford it, Perrin-Mbappé chemistry bridges your Ligue 1-Ligue 2 hybrid.
- French Icons or Heroes (e.g., Zidane, Ginola):
Instant nation-based chemistry for Perrin.
- Youssouf Fofana (Monaco):
Midfield support with good nation and league links.
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Verdict: Cop or Flop?
Verdict: Cop (for budget or hybrid squads)
Gaëtan Perrin is not your next elite winger, but he's an absolute value pick. With impressive agility, stamina, and versatility, he's a fantastic budget option or super sub for French-based squads. While his skill move rating and league limit his flexibility in top-tier teams, he brings consistent, reliable performances where it matters.
If you're balling on a budget or building a Buy EA FC 26 Coins road-to-glory team, Perrin is an under-the-radar asset worth trying in FC 26.