New Icons and Heroes
A grand total of 10 New Icons and Heroes have been announced by EA to come to Mobile before the "New Season", earlier than would be tradition. Below I will list the new Icons and Heroes, where and when they will be added to the game and some info about thier career
Check out the reveal video © EA Sports
Zlatan Ibrahimović (Icon) - Icon Chronicles
Zlatan Ibrahimović, born October 3, 1981, in Malmö, Sweden, is one of football’s most iconic and charismatic figures, renowned for his larger-than-life personality, physicality, and extraordinary goal-scoring ability. Rising from a tough upbringing, he began his professional career with Malmö FF in 1999 before moving to Ajax in 2001, where he won two Eredivisie titles and showcased his flair for spectacular goals. His career trajectory took him to Europe’s elite clubs, including Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Manchester United, and LA Galaxy, before returning to AC Milan in 2020. Known for his acrobatic finishes, powerful strikes, and supreme confidence, Zlatan has left an indelible mark on every league he’s played in, amassing over 570 career goals across club and international competitions.
Ibrahimović’s trophy cabinet is extensive, with 32 major titles, including four Serie A titles (two with Juventus, though later revoked due to the Calciopoli scandal, and two with Inter), a La Liga title with Barcelona, four Ligue 1 titles with PSG, and a Europa League with Manchester United. He’s also Sweden’s all-time leading scorer with 62 goals in 122 international appearances, though he never won a major international tournament. Despite never claiming a Champions League title, his individual accolades include multiple Golden Boots and Player of the Year awards across different leagues. Retiring from professional football in June 2023 at age 41, Zlatan’s legacy endures through his unmatched charisma, memorable quotes, and a career defined by defying expectations, with his final chapter at AC Milan culminating in a Serie A title in 2022.
Toni Kroos (Icon) - Defining Legacies
Kroos’s international career with Germany was equally illustrious, highlighted by winning the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where his precise distribution and game control were pivotal. He earned 108 caps for Germany, scoring 17 goals, before retiring from international football in 2021 and from club football in 2024 after a final season with Real Madrid. Renowned for his ability to dictate tempo, deliver inch-perfect long balls, and score clutch goals, Kroos amassed 22 major trophies across his career. His intelligence on the pitch, coupled with a calm demeanor, earned him widespread respect, with his final act being a La Liga and Champions League double in 2024, cementing his legacy as a midfield maestro.
Jan Koller (Hero) - Ragnarok After Daybreak
Jan Koller, born on March 30, 1973, in Smetanova Lhota, Czech Republic, is a former professional footballer renowned for his towering presence and exceptional goal-scoring ability as a striker. Standing at 6'7" with a strong physique, Koller earned the nickname "human lighthouse" for his dominance in aerial duels and heading prowess. His professional career began with Sparta Prague in 1994, but he gained prominence in Belgium, where he became the Belgian First Division top scorer with Lokeren and later won two league titles and the Belgian Golden Shoe with Anderlecht in 2000. In 2001, Koller joined Borussia Dortmund, where he won the Bundesliga title in his debut season (2001–02) and scored 73 goals in 167 official matches, including a notable performance as an emergency goalkeeper in a 2002–03 match against Bayern Munich, where he kept a clean sheet after Jens Lehmann’s red card.
Koller’s later career saw him play for Monaco, 1. FC Nürnberg, Krylia Sovetov in Russia, and AS Cannes, where he retired in 2011 after recurring injuries. Internationally, he is the Czech Republic’s all-time leading scorer with 55 goals in 91 appearances, including a remarkable four-goal haul in 11 minutes against Macedonia in 2005. Koller represented his country at three UEFA European Championships and the 2006 FIFA World Cup, retiring from international football after Euro 2008, though he briefly returned in 2009. Known for his physicality and versatility, Koller’s unique journey from a fourth-division player and military service to a European football icon cement his legacy as one of Czech football’s greatest figures
Cesc FÃ bregas (Hero) - Ragnarok After Daybreak
Cesc FÃ bregas, born Francesc FÃ bregas Soler on May 4, 1987, in Arenys de Mar, Spain, is a former professional footballer celebrated for his exceptional vision, passing, and playmaking as a midfielder. Emerging from FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, FÃ bregas joined Arsenal in 2003 at age 16, quickly becoming one of the Premier League’s brightest talents. He set records as Arsenal’s youngest player and goalscorer, eventually captaining the team and scoring 57 goals in 303 appearances. His return to Barcelona in 2011 saw him win La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and other titles, though he faced challenges securing a consistent role. FÃ bregas then joined Chelsea in 2014, winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a League Cup, amassing 22 goals and 57 assists in 198 games. His later career included stints at Monaco and Como, where he retired in 2023, transitioning to a coaching role with Como’s Primavera team and later as interim head coach.
Internationally, Fà bregas was a cornerstone of Spain’s golden era, earning 110 caps and 15 goals. He played a pivotal role in Spain’s victories at the 2008 and 2012 UEFA European Championships and the 2010 FIFA World Cup, notably assisting Andrés Iniesta’s winning goal in the World Cup final. Known for his intelligence and ability to dictate games, Fà bregas holds the record for the fastest goal in European Championship history (against Russia in 2008) and was Arsenal’s all-time leader in assists until surpassed by Bukayo Saka in 2024. His versatility, leadership, and contributions across club and country, combined with his seamless transition into coaching, mark Fà bregas as one of football’s most influential modern midfielders.
Marouane Fellaini (Hero) - Ragnarok After Daybreak
Marouane Fellaini, born on November 22, 1987, in Etterbeek, Belgium, is a former professional footballer known for his physical presence, aerial dominance, and versatility as a midfielder. Standing at 6'4" with a distinctive afro, Fellaini began his career at Standard Liège, where he won the Belgian First Division in 2007–08 and was named Belgian Ebony Shoe winner in 2008. He moved to Everton in 2008 for a then-club-record £15 million, becoming a fan favorite with 25 goals in 177 appearances, often playing as a target man or defensive midfielder. His 2013 transfer to Manchester United under David Moyes saw him win the FA Cup (2016), League Cup (2017), and Europa League (2017), scoring 22 goals in 177 games despite polarizing opinions due to his unorthodox style. Fellaini later joined Shandong Luneng in China in 2019, retiring in 2024 after winning three Chinese Super League titles and a Chinese FA Cup.
Internationally, Fellaini earned 87 caps for Belgium, scoring 18 goals, and was a key figure in their "Golden Generation," competing in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups and Euro 2016, with a memorable headed goal in Belgium’s 2018 World Cup comeback against Japan. Renowned for his chest control, aerial ability, and work rate, Fellaini thrived in high-pressure situations, often deployed as a tactical "Plan B" by managers like José Mourinho. His adaptability across midfield and forward roles, combined with his unique physicality, made him a standout, though he faced criticism for his technical limitations. Post-retirement, Fellaini has expressed interest in coaching, leaving a legacy as a cult hero in European and Chinese football.
Oliver Bierhoff (Icon) - Ragnarok After Daybreak
Oliver Bierhoff, born May 1, 1968, in Karlsruhe, Germany, is a retired German footballer renowned for his prowess as a striker, particularly for his exceptional heading ability and role as a target man. His career began in the Bundesliga with Bayer Uerdingen, followed by stints at Hamburger SV and Borussia Mönchengladbach, where he struggled to make a significant impact. His fortunes changed after moving to Austria Salzburg in 1990, where he scored 23 goals in 33 league games, paving the way for a move to Serie A’s Ascoli. Despite relegation in his first season, Bierhoff excelled in Serie B, becoming the top scorer with 20 goals in 1994-95. His standout period came with Udinese (1995-98), where he scored 27 goals in the 1997-98 Serie A season, earning the Capocannoniere title and German Footballer of the Year honors. He joined AC Milan in 1998, winning the Serie A title in his first season, scoring 19 league goals, including a record 15 headers. Bierhoff later played for Monaco and Chievo Verona, retiring in 2003 after a hat-trick in his final match against Juventus. Internationally, he scored 37 goals in 70 caps for Germany, most notably the first-ever golden goal in the Euro 96 final against the Czech Republic, securing the title, and the fastest hat-trick in German national team history against Northern Ireland in 1997.
Post-retirement, Bierhoff transitioned into football administration, serving as the Germany national team manager from 2004 to 2017, focusing on public relations, and later as technical director until 2022, when his contract was terminated after a poor World Cup performance. In 2023, he became a business advisor for the NFL’s New England Patriots, aiding their expansion in German-speaking countries, and in 2024, he joined McKinsey & Company as a senior advisor while founding FINVIA Sports GmbH. Bierhoff’s career was not without controversy; he faced criticism for signing a 2010 pro-nuclear energy lobby initiative and for comments perceived as homophobic, drawing backlash from German football culture advocates. Despite these issues, his legacy as a prolific striker and Euro 96 hero endures, with 103 Serie A goals, one of the highest totals for a non-Italian.
Mario Mandźukić (Hero) - Ragnarok After Daybreak
Mario Mandžukić, born May 21, 1986, in Slavonski Brod, Croatia, is a retired professional footballer celebrated for his versatility, work rate, and clinical finishing as a forward. His 10-year career spanned five clubs, including Wolfsburg, Bayern Munich, Atlético Madrid, Juventus, and AC Milan, where he amassed 96 goals and 34 assists in 266 appearances across various leagues. Mandžukić’s standout period was at Juventus (2015–19), where he won four consecutive Serie A titles and three Coppa Italia trophies, showcasing his ability to play as a striker, winger, or even defensive forward. His time at Bayern Munich (2012–14) was equally illustrious, with a UEFA Champions League title in 2013 and two Bundesliga titles, scoring 33 goals in 54 league matches. Known for his aerial prowess, physicality, and relentless pressing, Mandžukić was a fan favorite for his selfless play, often dropping deep to aid defensively or create chances for teammates.
Internationally, Mandžukić represented Croatia in 89 matches, scoring 33 goals, and was a key figure in their runner-up finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he scored in the final against France. His career wasn’t without challenges; injuries and limited starts marked his final season at AC Milan in 2020–21, where he failed to score in 10 appearances. After retiring in 2021, Mandžukić briefly served as an assistant coach for the Croatia national team in 2024. His legacy endures as one of Croatia’s greatest forwards, admired for his tactical intelligence and clutch performances, such as his acrobatic goal in the 2017 Champions League final. Off the pitch, Mandžukić is known for his low-key persona, avoiding the spotlight while maintaining a strong connection to his Croatian roots.
Michael Carrick (Hero) - Ragnarok Mighty Winter (Week 3)
Michael Carrick, born July 28, 1981, in Wallsend, England, is a retired English footballer renowned for his 12-year tenure at Manchester United, where he established himself as one of the premier defensive midfielders of his era. Beginning his career at West Ham United’s youth academy, Carrick won the FA Youth Cup in 1999 and debuted for the senior team that year, making 159 appearances before moving to Tottenham Hotspur in 2004. His £3.5 million transfer to Manchester United in 2006 marked the start of a decorated career, with 464 appearances, 24 goals, and 40 assists, contributing to five Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League in 2008, an FA Cup, three League Cups, and a FIFA Club World Cup. Known for his precise passing, tactical intelligence, and composure, Carrick occasionally played as an emergency centre-back under managers like Alex Ferguson and José Mourinho. Internationally, he earned 34 caps for England, playing in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, though he was often overlooked for other midfielders. His understated style led to debates about his recognition, with many fans and analysts later praising his role as a deep-lying playmaker
After retiring in 2018 following a heart procedure for an irregular rhythm, Carrick transitioned into coaching, joining Manchester United’s staff under Mourinho. He served as caretaker manager in 2021, securing a Champions League knockout berth and a win against Arsenal, before leaving after Ralf Rangnick’s appointment. In October 2022, he became head coach of Middlesbrough, transforming the team from the Championship relegation zone to a fourth-place finish and playoff contention in his first season. Despite subsequent seasons ending in eighth and tenth places, his attacking style earned praise, though he was sacked in June 2025 after failing to secure promotion. Carrick’s post-playing career also includes founding the Michael Carrick Foundation, which supports disadvantaged youth through football and skills programs, reflecting his commitment to community impact.
Esteban Cambiasso (Hero) Ragnarok Mighty Winter (Week 3)
Esteban Cambiasso, born August 18, 1980, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is a retired footballer celebrated for his versatility, tactical intelligence, and longevity as a midfielder. Over a 13-year career, he played for four clubs, including Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Leicester City, and Olympiacos, amassing 46 goals and 10 assists in 387 appearances across various leagues. His most successful stint was with Inter Milan (2004–14), where he won five consecutive Serie A titles, four Coppa Italia trophies, and the 2010 UEFA Champions League under José Mourinho, playing a pivotal role in the club’s historic treble. Known for his ability to play as a defensive midfielder, box-to-box player, or even centre-back, Cambiasso’s precise passing and game-reading ability made him a cornerstone of Inter’s midfield. His iconic moment came in the 2009–10 Champions League, scoring a stunning volley against Chelsea, and he was lauded for his work rate, averaging over 2,000 minutes per season during his Inter tenure.
Internationally, Cambiasso earned 52 caps for Argentina, scoring five goals, and won a silver medal at the 2008 Olympics, though he was often underutilized at the World Cup level due to competition from other midfielders. After leaving Inter in 2014, he joined Leicester City, contributing five goals in 31 matches during their remarkable 2014–15 Premier League survival campaign. His final season at Olympiacos in 2016–17 saw him win the Greek Super League before retiring at 37. Post-retirement, Cambiasso transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant for Colombia’s national team and later managing in Italy’s lower leagues. Known for his professionalism and leadership, he remains a revered figure in Argentine and Italian football, with fans and peers praising his understated brilliance and clutch performances, such as his goal in Leicester’s 5–1 win over QPR in 2015.
Dunga (Icon) - Icon Maker Challenge
After retiring in 2000, Dunga transitioned into coaching, most prominently managing Brazil’s national team in two stints (2006–10 and 2014–16). His first tenure yielded the 2007 Copa América and 2009 Confederations Cup, but his defensive tactics drew criticism, culminating in a 2010 World Cup quarter-final exit. His second stint ended after a group-stage exit at the 2016 Copa América Centenario. Dunga also managed Internacional in 2013, winning the Campeonato Gaúcho. Known for his no-nonsense approach, he faced scrutiny for favoring discipline over creativity, yet his legacy as a player remains strong, particularly for his role in Brazil’s 1994 triumph. Off the pitch, Dunga is a private figure, occasionally involved in football punditry and charity work in Brazil, maintaining a low profile while still revered for his contributions to Brazilian football.
