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

Detailed breakdown of the new Link-Up Play system in eFootball 2026.
Step-by-step guide to activating and using Link-Up Play effectively.

eFootball 2026 is here with a new season update loaded with new features, and there’s no better time to play the game. If you’ve been exploring the new features in eFootball 2026, you’ve probably heard about Link-Up Play. This is one of the most exciting additions for managers.

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.

Jose Mourinho Link-up play in eFootball 2026 (Image via KONAMI)

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.

Importance of Link-Up Play in eFootball 2026

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.

eFootball 2026 Link Up play (Image via KONAMI)

This is noticeable especially when using managers like Mourinho who specialize 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.

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