After four consecutive years of Lionel Messi as the global cover athlete for the massively popular FIFA video game series from EA Sports, a change is being made. Fans will get to choose between four stars who are eligible for the cover of FIFA 17. The winner will be on the cover worldwide and joined by others determined by the specific nation or region.
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Votes are cast through the official website as well as on social media with July 19 as the final day to collect them. Registering 10 votes over the period will be rewarded with a FIFA 16 Ultimate Team 3-Match Loan Item while 20 votes will earn players a FIFA 16 Ultimate Team Gold Pack.
James Rodriguez
The Real Madrid No. 10 burst onto the world scene with his outstanding display in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he won the Golden Boot with six goals in five games. The talented midfielder is the current captain and pride of Colombia. Vote for James and show your support on social media using #FIFA17JAMES.
Marco Reus
Borussia Dortmund's Marco Reus is the definition of a technically proficient footballer. Strong with either foot, lethal from a dead ball, and with a knack for scoring important goals, the German international has been featured in the Bundesliga Team of the Year four times and is the heart and soul of his hometown club. Support Reus on social media with #FIFA17REUS and vote.
Anthony Martial
Winner of the 2015 Golden Boy Award for the best under-21 player in Europe, the Manchester United striker scored 17 goals in an incredible first season and also made his senior debut for France. Vote for Martial, and back him on social media using #FIFA17MARTIAL.
Eden Hazard
The 2014-15 Premier League Player of the Year, Eden Hazard can be impossible to defend, possessing dazzling skills, touch and penetrating dribbles which help create magic from any situation on the pitch. Support the Belgium captain and Chelsea star on social media using #FIFA17HAZARD and vote.
FIFA 17 is scheduled to release on Tuesday, September 27 for Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC. FIFA 17 features a new gameplay engine and a cinematic story mode. Amazon Prime members get 20 percent off pre-orders for any version and edition including the pricier "Deluxe" which includes additional bonus Ultimate Team content.
Bryan Wiedey posts sports gaming news and analysis daily at Pastapadre.com, is co-founder of HitThePass.com, hosts the Press Row Podcast, and be reached on Twitter @Pastapadre.