You started out asking whether it's a game or simulation, then ended up talking about card pulls. Clearly it's a game then right?

The publisher responded to arguments that it was unrealistic by explaining that Ultimate Team mode is meant to be a fantasy and that players should turn to EA Sports FC 24’s Kick Off mode for a more realistic experience.

It's a game. In the UT mode you can use players in your team that have long been retired or dead. You have cards that make up crazy what ifs scenarios, like what if Ronaldo was a center back or Messi a right back (don't know if those cards actually exist but you get the point). You can make crazy teams that are completely unrealistic. Now they are expanding that with women.

I don't see the issue personally. I just played it for fun and to make crazy teams. My front line right now is Leao, Raúl and Mahrez. Wouldn't mind changing Mahrez for Beath Mead just for fun. 🙂