Before dynamic cards were all the rage, getting an icon in FIFA Ultimate Team was a game-changing prospect. Being able to play matches with legendary figures like Maradona or Ronaldinho changed the game, and as such players are now looking ahead to FIFA 23 icons. There's no doubt that more legends will appear in the roster this year, so we've got all the details you need.
In this FIFA 23 guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about icons this year. That includes which players we expect to appear, as well as some newcomers, which tends to happen every year. FIFA 22 saw the introduction of Robin Van Persie, so expect similar levels this time around.
Elsewhere, our FIFA 23 beta guide dishes out the details on when you should be able to try the game out for the first time. We've also got a look at FIFA 23 ratings for this year, as well as details on when the FIFA 23 web app should launch.
All confirmed FIFA 23 icons
As of right now, EA Sports has confirmed three new FIFA 23 icons. These are Xabi Alonso, Gerd Müller, and Jairzinho.
However, most icons from FIFA 22 will return for the latest entry. As a reminder, the table below has the lot, as confirmed by EA Sports.
Those are all the icons in FIFA 23. Notably, Diego Maradona was removed from the game in March due to image rights problems, and Marc Overmars due to his departure from Ajax after misconduct allegations. Equally, some icons with legal problems such as Ryan Giggs may be removed by EA Sports in the future.
Which icons may join FIFA 23?
As we look to the next game, it's worth considering which new icons may join the game. We already know of a few new Heroes cards, including Park Ji-Sung and Yaya Touré. However, upcoming icons are much more secretive.
A few players who are present within the FIFA 22 game files but never emerged as icons include Spanish striker David Villa and German attacker Gerd Müller. Equally, renowned FUT source FutSherrif believes Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso will also arrive as an icon this year. As it turns out, these leaks were true!.
How do I get icons in FIFA 23?
Getting an icon card in FIFA 23 is just the same as getting all other players. Your two options are either to purchase them from the transfer market using coins, or hoping to get lucky in a pack.
In the early stages of the game, however, getting an icon is all down to blind luck. If you manage to grab one in a pack, the chances are the feverish market will ensure you get several million coins for your troubles. Alternatively, you can save up and trade wisely to bank that many coins, then go out and purchase one from another player.
Icons are rarely added as objective rewards, though the Icon Swaps SBC challenge which appears later into each game's cycle is another way to get your hands on one. That'll require a lot of SBC grinding and matches under your belt, so strap in for a tough time.
That's it for our look at FIFA 23 icons! As the game approaches its release, we should learn more about which new footballing legends to expect. Until then, feel free to check out a deeper breakdown of this year's FIFA 23 career mode to bide your time.