How Old is a Veteran Player in FIFA 23?
A veteran player in FIFA 23 must be at least 35 years old and have an overall rating of 85 or higher. So 35 is the minimum age.
Why 35 Years Old as the Veteran Threshold?
EA Sports likely chose 35 years old as it represents a clear delineation point where most professional players have peaked and entered the twilight of their careers.
While many players retire well beforehand, those still active at 35+ typically start declining from their prime years. FIFA seems to want to recognize those still maintaining a high level of play as veterans, despite their advanced age.
Significance of the 85+ Rating
The 85+ rating cutoff also carries meaning. An average rating for top-level players falls in the low-to-mid 80s. Those able to achieve 85+ well into their mid-30s demonstrate unusually exceptional longevity.
EA uses this veteran classification to honor elite players who have sustained world-class performance despite their age weighing them down in other areas.
Average Overall Rating By Age:
| Age | Average Rating |
| ------------- |:-------------:|
| <25 | 79 |
| 25-29 | 83 |
| 30-34 | 84 |
| 35+ | 81 |Data via FIFA gaming forums and online stat tracking
As we can see, averages decline past age 30. But veterans manage to play at 85+.
My Take: Why 35 and 85+ Makes Sense
As an avid FIFA gamer and fan for over a decade, I think EA nailed it with 35 and 85+.
35 represents that critical point where decline often accelerates. And the high rating cutoff indicates who is overcoming age despite soccer convention suggesting they shouldn‘t.
In my opinion, seeing legendary players like Zlatan Ibrahimović still dominating in-game at 85 overall and 41 years old adds fun variety and unpredictability versus a roster full of young up-and-comers.
Who Are Some Veterans in FIFA 23?
Let‘s look at some real-life examples of FIFA 23 veteran players according to EA‘s criteria:
Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer
- 36 years old
- 89 overall rating
- World Cup and Champions League Winner
At 36, Neuer remains near his prime thanks to phenomenal instinct and shot-stopping ability. EA has rightfully kept his rating elite.
Manuel Neuer Key Stats:
| Category | Rating |
| ------------- |:-------------:|
| GK Positioning | 92 |
| GK Handling | 89 |
| Reactions | 88 |Center Back: Thiago Silva
- 38 years old
- 86 overall rating
- Champions League winner in 2021
Nearly 40, Silva is still one of the highest rated central defenders in FIFA 23, known for intelligent play and leadership from the backline.
Striker: Zlatan Ibrahimović
- 41 years old
- 85 overall rating
- 28 career trophies across 5 leagues
Ibrahimović defies time, continuing as an imposing aerial and long-shot threat. Few could imagine an 41 year old still at 85 overall.
More Veterans to Come?
Looking ahead, FIFA 24 and beyond may feature unprecedented longevity. With modern sports science, I envision more current superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi remaining 80+ rated into their late 30s.
Veterans staying formidable could become the norm, not an oddity. But for now, EA‘s 35 year old, 85+ overall criteria fits perfectly to capture special older players still at the top of their game.
