Player Review

If you're on the fence about completing Socrates, let me try to push you over the edge. First, my favorite Socrates quote: "Beauty comes first. Victory is secondary. What matters is Joy." Along with being a doctor, thinker, drinker, and smoker, Socrates was one of the most talented midfielders of the 80s. All while he was playing at his highest level, he was an outspoken activist against the military dictatorship and injustices in Brazil. He was simply a really cool guy. He was extremely intelligent, well-spoken, and driven. He got his medical degree while starting his football career. He also didn't really train. He'd often show up on game day smelling of booze and cigars, and go on to absolutely wreck the opposition.

Now onto the Fut card. Because of the above details, I've always tried to work him into my squad. I actually ran with both his baby and mid versions earlier this year, but like most physical-oriented attackers, they fell behind the power curve quickly. His Prime version has just 60 balance. Try as you might, that is just too low to find consistent success. This is the main reason why this card is so worth it. This version of Socrates boasts 80 balance, and you can feel every bit of that upgrade. Not only does it fix the main Socrates issue in Fifa, it's a welcome solve to the problems with most larger, physical attackers. In fact, only Gullit, Tammy Abraham, WW Zlatan, and TOTYHM Haaland match the height (6'3 and above) and balance (80+) split of this Socrates. Combine that with a 5* WF and you have one of the more unique and gifted attackers in the game.

OVERALL:

To be fully honest, it took me about 10 games to really get the feel of this card. He has a High & Average+ body type, and at 6'4 he is just so different from any other card that I've used at the position. Once it clicked though, it really clicked. I use him primarily as a CAM in a 3-5-2, and can promise you that there isn't a better position for this card. It suits his attacking ai impeccably, and with his 99 long shots and shot power it's the perfect spot for him to play. I can also vouch for the ENGINE chem style, which boosts his agility to 91, balance to 90, and dribbling to 99. The passing boost is also stellar with ENGINE, getting Socrates to 99 in vision, crossing, and curve with a 96 & 97 in short and long passing. Pace at 91 is more than enough, with his length making him feel even faster in the right spots.

X FACTOR:

5* Weak Foot

This card only works this well because Socrates is two footed. It makes turning on a dime a little less important, makes the absence of any shooting traits a non-factor, and allows for beautiful passes no matter the situation. His 99 shot power/composure coming from either foot is also wonderful.

IN CLOSING:

Is he pricey? Yes. I unleashed all of my fodder and coins into this SBC. But at this point in the season, I think these are the cards that are worth going for. Truly unique, statistically overpowered, with a big ol splash of a whole lot of cool. For me, he's the perfect centerpiece that will be a mainstay through TOTS & I am thrilled to have him in the squad. As a parting note, I wouldn't try and force him to do things a more traditional, nimble CAM would do. Instead, trust his positioning and decision making, and you'll have a ton of fun.