As the new Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season kicks off, managers are already making bold moves to optimize their squads.
One name stands out above the rest: Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.
Despite a significant price hike, Palmer has quickly become the most coveted midfielder in the game, reflecting his incredible form from last season.
Moreover, fantasy platforms have launched various promotional offers for managers, making the game even more enticing.
One notable promotion is the Fanduel promo code, a top choice among fantasy fans, which allows them to improve their FPL experience.
Cole Palmer’s Rise
Cole Palmer’s impressive performance last season has not gone unnoticed.
His cost has surged by £5.5m, reaching £10.5m, after topping the player standings with 244 points.
It hasn’t deterred managers, with Palmer now appearing in over 53% of squads, a remarkable lead over the next most popular midfielder, Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon, owned by 36% of managers.
Palmer’s appeal lies in his consistency and attacking prowess.
Last season, he contributed with goals and assists, making him a reliable points scorer.
Managers are banking on him to replicate or surpass his previous performances, making his high price a justified investment.
Additionally, Chelsea’s favorable early fixtures provide a great opportunity for Palmer to start the season strongly.
The Haaland Conundrum
Erling Haaland, priced at a record £15.0m, presents a significant challenge for FPL managers.
His high cost has resulted in him being selected by only 30% of managers, a stark contrast to his dominance last season when his ownership peaked at over 92%.
Instead, many opt for more budget-friendly forwards like Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins (£9.0m) and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak (£8.5m), in 56% and 54% of squads, respectively.
Shifting Midfield Dynamics
The midfield choices for FPL managers this season are more competitive than ever.
Following Palmer and Gordon, Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, Manchester City’s Phil Foden, and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah round out the top five most-owned midfielders.
Each player brings unique strengths, making the midfield a critical area for strategic decisions.
Eberechi Eze offers a budget-friendly option with a high upside, especially considering his creative role at Crystal Palace.
Although Phil Foden is slightly more expensive and brings the pedigree of a top club, his rotation risk at Manchester City is a concern.
Despite his high price, Mohamed Salah remains a consistent performer and could be a differential captain for those seeking an edge.
The competition in the midfield is fierce, and managers need to balance their budgets while ensuring they have players who can deliver week in and week out.
The price variance from £7.0m to £12.5m means a midfielder for every budget, but choosing the right combination will be key to success.
FPL Bargain Hunting: Forwards and Defenders
The hefty price tag on Haaland has led managers to seek value in other areas.
Brighton’s Joao Pedro (£5.5m) has emerged as a popular budget forward, owned by 22% of managers.
Meanwhile, defenders like Arsenal’s William Saliba (£6.0m), Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol (£6.0m), and Tottenham’s Pedro Porro (£5.5m) are gaining traction.
Newcastle’s Dan Burn, Crystal Palace’s Joachim Andersen, and Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, all priced at £4.5m, offer solid budget options for defense.
FPL Goalkeeper Strategies
The choice of goalkeeper can often be overlooked, but it’s crucial for maximizing points through saves and bonus opportunities.
Arsenal’s David Raya (£5.5m) is the most popular pick, owned by 21% of managers.
However, budget combinations like Brentford’s Mark Flekken (£4.5m) and his deputy Hakon Valdimarsson (£4.0m) offer a cost-effective solution, totaling just £8.5m.
Summary
As FPL managers finalize their squads for the new season, their decisions will set the tone for the campaign ahead.
Cole Palmer’s soaring popularity underscores his value, while Erling Haaland’s record price tag forces a strategic rethink.
