eFootball 2026: A complete guide to Manager Link-Up Play

If we talk about the standout features in eFootball 2026, then Link-Up Play might find its place among the top additions. Ever since it got added with the August 2025 season update, which was loaded with new features, this is one of the most exciting additions for managers and has changed the way we play, in a good way.

I’m sure there are still a few details one should know about Link-Up play and how to make the best use of it. So, let’s break down exactly how it works, how to set it up, and why it might just be a game-changer for your squad.

Understanding Link Up Play in eFootball 2026

In simple terms, Link-Up Play is a special tactical connection between two players in your lineup, the Centerpiece and the Key Man. These players are paired by your manager’s tactics, and when they meet certain positional and playstyle conditions, they perform better together.

For example, with Jose Mourinho’s Quick Counter setup, the Centrepiece could be a Creative Playmaker positioned as an AMF, and the Key Man could be a Hole Player on the LMF or RMF. When the Centrepiece has the ball, the Key Man makes aggressive forward runs, looking for perfectly timed passes.

Another thing to note is that, depending on the function or manager style we have, the quality of certain attributes will increase. For Jose, the quality of the pass for the Centrepiece and the speed of the runs for the Key Man will both get a boost.

How to set up Link-Up Play in eFootball 2026

Setting up this option is easy, with the manager having the option to select your players. Note that this has a fixed playstyle preference, so if you select someone different, this won’t be triggered.

• Choose the Right Manager: Link-Up Play is tied to your manager’s tactics. Pick one that complements your preferred style.
• Match Positions and Playstyles: The Centrepiece and Key Man must fit both the position and the playstyle requirement for the Link-Up to activate.
• Manual Control: You can toggle Link-Up Play on or off during matches, giving you flexibility based on game situations.
• In-Match Execution: Once active, watch for your Key Man’s runs when the Centrepiece has the ball. This is your cue to play those through passes or diagonal balls.

Tips and Tricks for Link-Up Play in eFootball 2026

While there aren’t exact tips that you can follow inside the Link-Up play once activated, you can make the best use of it by following a few steps:

• Always have optimal substitutions: With Link-Up, you can’t trust having one pairing/combination for the connection. So, have 4 combinations available, two for each playstyle for Centrepiece and Key Man. This way, depending on the conditioning and player form, you can play different combinations every match.
• Mini-map is your helper: If you notice the mini-map, it is always a major help for you. You can track your nearest players, yes, but you can also notice whenever your player is making runs and then you can connect your passes.

Before this feature, certain passes or movements were hard to pull off consistently. Now, with Link-Up Play, those same situations become high-probability chances. You’ll notice smoother attacking patterns, more accurate through balls, and better finishing.

This is noticeable especially when using managers like Mourinho who specialise in aggressive counters. And the best part? Activating Link-Up Play won’t negatively affect your current squad ratings. Your overall player stats stay intact.

Read other related articles:

• eFootball 2026: A guide to understanding and performing Player Fusion
• eFootball 2026: Playstyle guide for Forwards
• eFootball 2026: Playstyle guide for Midfielders
• eFootball 2026: Playstyle guide for Defenders

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