The Premier League’s first gameweek has provided some intriguing insights for Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers.
Here’s a roundup of the key observations and trends from the weekend’s matches:
Bruno Fernandes shines for Man United
Fernandes looks like an integral part of Erik ten Hag’s side as he looked very critical to everything Man United produced offensively. The Portuguese international showed the most significant goal threat of the gameweek, registering an impressive 1.19 xG (expected goals).
Bruno Fernandes should be firmly back on the radar for FPL managers looking for a reliable midfield option.
Trent Alexander-Arnold reclaims form
Alexander-Arnold has always been a top asset in the FPL, and he took us down memory lane with his performance in the first gameweek of the PL season.
TAA has been playing in a more advanced role under Slot than what he did under Klopp as he recorded 3 chances created (CC), 2 big chances created (BCC), and a solid 1.06 xGi (expected goal involvement).
With Liverpool having favourable fixtures and Trent involved in high offensive outputs, he could be one to ponder for your FPL defence.
Also read: Jadon Sancho’s Future at Manchester United Hanging in the Balance
Diogo Jota’s value rising
Darwin Núñez had limited pre-season time under his belt owing to his delayed holiday and he remained an unused substitute against Ipswich at the weekend.
While the Uruguayan was warming the bench, Diogo Jota emerged as a high-value asset. The Portuguese played more centrally for the Reds and aggregated 0.95 xG while creating 2 big chances (BC). His current position complemented by his involvement in the game makes him a compelling option right now.
However, we need to keep a keen eye on xMins as he may soon be substituted for Núñez, or worse, a bench option.
Mohamed Salah’s captaincy appeal
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Another pick from that Liverpool game is Mo Salah. Many thought he would be positioned more wide because of Trent’s more inverted role, but he was central to a lot that the Reds did. His performance against Ipswich Town complemented by the upcoming fixtures makes him a good pick for your FPL squad.
Mo recorded 0.85 xGi this gameweek, highlighting his importance as a captaincy choice by many and managers who own him should prepare to make the most of his standout fixtures.
Bukayo Saka’s dual threat
Coming to Arsenal, Bukayo Saka once again showed his goal-scoring and assisting abilities against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
He had 5 shots, 4 of which were in the box, and created 5 chances (CC).
His attacking potential increasingly makes him a must-have in your Fantasy Premier League squad.
Kai Havertz’s offensive presence
Kai Havertz has been a consistent performer in the number nine role and that is what the German again demonstrated at the weekend. He managed 5 shots, scoring 1 goal and providing 1 assist.
His offensive contributions are promising for those looking to invest in an attacking option with a goal threat and he would be an interesting option especially because of his ability to clutch big games, something that Arsenal have coming in the next few gameweeks.
ALso read: Chelsea’s Setback: Enzo Maresca Lauds Manchester City as the World’s Best
Defensive strengths
Both Arsenal and Brighton put in a solid defensive performance.
Arsenal, as usual, again came up with a very low xGC (expected goals conceded) of 0.47, while the Seagulls followed closely with a 0.45 xGC. Their defensive stability is worth noting for those considering their defenders.
Mitoma’s liveliness
Kaoru Mitoma was lively and impactful, registering 0.97 xG. His performance indicates he could be a valuable player as the season progresses. We need to keep a keen eye on whether he is truly back to his old self and can provide consistent goal-scoring returns, something he is quite capable of.
Budget Picks: Armstrong and Rogers
Adam Armstrong, priced at 5.5 million, was unlucky not to score but showed promise with 4 shots inside the box and a 0.79 xG.
He can become a strong budget option to consider especially because of the favorable fixtures ahead.
Similarly, the Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers looks like a standout budget midfield choice in the 5.0-5.5 million bracket. He played mostly in the second striker role and the returns should come soon for him.
Brentford Alternatives: Wissa and Mbeumo
With speculation around Ivan Toney’s potential departure, the other Brentford options are suddenly more appealing.
Both Yoane Wissa (6.0) and Bryan Mbeumo (7.0) may provide great value from Gameweek 6 onwards when the Bees start a favourable fixtures schedule.
Eze’s central role
Eberechi Eze has again been the main man for Crystal Palace, taking the most shots this gameweek (7). He surely was unlucky to have a goal ruled out.
But, his role and shooting volume make him an interesting midfield option.
Erling Haaland’s readiness
The goal-scoring powerhouse continues to pose a major threat. Even with just 2 shots and 1 goal, Erling Haaland is obviously preparing for a successful season.
FPL non-owners may need to rethink their strategies in preparation for their upcoming high-impact performances.
Defensive concerns for Manchester City and Chelsea
Man City’s defensive performance vs Chelsea was not as strong as you’d ideally want it to be. For Enzo Maresca’s side, Chelsea displayed good defensive structure despite letting in two goals.
Managers may need to assess their defensive picks from these teams going forward.
Solanke’s potential emergence
Dominic Solanke is a popular pick among FPL managers, and he enjoyed a decent display this gameweek. He looked to get into good spaces and had a couple of good opportunities.
Goals should start flowing for him if Spurs maintain similar involvement in the box.
Also read: #Transfer: Pedro Neto Set to Join Chelsea: A Major Transfer in the Premier League
Conclusion
2024/25 Premier League Gameweek 1 has provided key insights for Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers. Bruno Fernandes and Trent Alexander-Arnold stand out as top assets, while Mo Salah’s upcoming fixtures make him a prime captaincy choice. Jota and Saka show strong potential, and budget options like Adam Armstrong and Morgan Rogers are worth considering. With solid defenses from Arsenal and Brighton, and speculative moves involving Ivan Toney, staying updated on these trends will be crucial for FPL’s success as the season progresses.