FPL 2024-25: Gameweek 10 preview

Not to toot our own horn (too much), but two of our Gameweek 9 fantasy picks earned themselves a spot in the Team of the Week last weekend. Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, our recommended fantasy pick in the non-premium budget category even managed to grab the Player of the Week award by scoring a brace against Ipswich Town for 15 FPL points. Chris Wood, who we mentioned as a potentially rewarding budget fantasy pick, scored a brace as well, at the King Power Stadium in his case, for 13 FPL points. The third spot on the podium was reserved for Fulham’s Alex Iwobi and Ipswich Town’s George Hirst, who both brought home 11 FPL points.

At first glance, the fixtures in Gameweek 10 don’t look as clear cut as those in Gameweek 9 did. For FPL managers, Manchester City’s visit to Bournemouth on Saturday looks enticing, as does Liverpool’s home game against Brighton, though the Seagulls are in excellent form at the moment. Then again, the Reds did just eliminate them from the League Cup (3-2). Gameweek 10 looks more like one for the neutral viewers with high-profile clashes between Newcastle and Arsenal (to kick off GW10), Spurs and Aston Villa (as opening fixture on Sunday) and Manchester United at home to Chelsea on Sunday afternoon.

Don’t forget, the deadline for gameweek 10 is set at 11h00 (UK time) on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Most transferred in/transferred out players (as per October 31st, 2024)

 TRANSFERS OUTTRANSFERS INPOSSIBLE REASONS
GKRaya (ARS), Alisson (LIV), Martinez (AST)Sels (NFO), Pickford (EVE), Fabianski (WHU)Alisson injury
DEFGabriel (ARS), Porro (TOT), Mazraoui (MUN)Ait-Nouri (WOL), Gvardiol (MCI), Keane (EVE)Ait-Nouri recent attacking returns, Gabriel injury doubt
MIDDiaz (LIV), Son (TOT), Jota (LIV)Mbeumo (BRE), Saka (ARS), Salah (LIV)All transferred-in midfielders are in good form, Jota injured, Son injury doubt
FORWatkins (AST), Solanke (TOT), Havertz (ARS)Wood (NFO), Wissa (BRE), Cunha (WOL)Wood goal-scoring form, Cunha recent away form, Villa + Arsenal difficult upcoming fixtures

Premium pick

Once again, there is very little between the two giants of the Fantasy Premier League, Mo Salah and Erling Haaland (£15.4m) this weekend. The former is playing at home against Brighton, but got about 20 minutes in the League Cup Round of 16 a few days ago, while the latter is visiting Bournemouth after not playing in the League Cup at all this week. Besides that, the other two fantasy assets priced £10m or more at this moment, Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka, have Man United away and Newcastle away, respectively. Considering all of the above, we have decided to go with Haaland as our premium fantasy pick for Gameweek 10. He will be fresh and rested, and facing a team that has had a decent start to the season so far, but that should concede versus City as well. The Cherries have conceded 11 goals in 9 games and managed just one clean sheet, back in GW8 at home to Arsenal. We don’t expect this one to be a walk in the park for Manchester City, but we definitely see chances here for Haaland to work on his current numbers: 11 goals in ten league starts.

Non-premium pick

On Thursday (October 31st), Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo said the following: “Morgan [Gibbs-White] is one of the players inside that group that we have to assess and see how he is. Chris [Wood] also, and Elliot [Anderson] and Jota [Silva]. They have knocks”. The reason we are quoting the Forest manager here is because we have decided to move Chris Wood (£6.4m) from the budget fantasy pick category to the non-premium fantasy pick category after his brace at Leicester City last weekend. Not because £6.4m is not great value for the Kiwi striker in his current form (because it is), but because there are plenty of other even cheaper budget enablers who also deserve a shout. Wood is currently flagged in the official fantasy game though, with a 75% chance of playing and we personally think that he will be present by the time Forest kick off against West Ham on Saturday. The forward has now returned in three consecutive league games and sits on 7 goals from nine league starts in total. As we said before, at his current price, that’s excellent value for money.

The budget enabler

If you come into the Premier League as a regular starter for the first time, for a side that has just been promoted and that boasts the smallest budget in the league, and you sit on 5 goals after nine league games; hats off. This has been a very brief resumé of Liam Delap’s (£5.7m) so far, after moving from the Manchester City U21s to Ipswich Town last summer for about £20 million. The 21-year-old has needed no time to get used to his new club or to being a Premier League regular, having already collected 38 FPL points in the first nine games of the current season. The Tractor Boys are now preparing for a home game against Leicester City, who have already conceded 17 goals so far, followed by two difficult games against Spurs (away) and Manchester United (home). After that though, it’s Nottingham Forest away, Crystal Palace at home, Bournemouth at home and Wolves away for the new boys. Like the rest of his team mates, Delap is surely looking at that run as well to score a few goals and collect a few more points before the schedule turns more complicated again.

The differential

If we’re talking about the biggest disappointments of the 2024-25 Premier League campaign so far, Wolves are probably around the top of the list. The West Midlands club had a horrid start to the season, in big part thanks to their incredibly tough opening schedule, which explains why not a lot of their players have featured in our FPL Gameweek previews. They currently find themselves in 19th place in the league with just 2 points from the first nine games, but if it’s up to Matheus Cunha (£6.5m), that won’t be for much longer. The 25-year-old attacker is getting into goal-scoring, having scored 3 goals in the last five games. It’s therefore no wonder that he is the highest-scoring Wolves player in the official fantasy game at the moment. That’s not all though, because Cunha also leads his teammates in goals scored (4), total shots (27), total shots in the box (19) and key passes (15). In other words, the Wolves attack ticks around the Brazilian and with the fixture schedule finally clearing up for Wolves, we suspect that he could represent considerable differential value (he’s currently owned by 3.8% of fantasy managers) all the way up to and including Gameweek 17.

The (vice-)captaincy

As far as we are concerned, the captaincy is once again a bit of a coin toss between Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland. We are going with the latter, but to be honest, the former is just as a good pick for the armband in Gameweek 10.

If you want to move away from the Haaland-Salah debate, Gameweek 10 offers a few high-risk-high-reward options as well, including Chris Wood at home to West Ham United, Bukayo Saka away at Newcastle and Raul Jimenez at home to Brentford.

For further thoughts and discussions on the new FPL season visit FISO’s FPL forum.

Professional Football: The High-Stakes World of Strategy, Talent, and Global Influence

Understanding the Rise of Professional Football

For fans eager to follow professional leagues closely, a platform like BetWinner Tanzania offers a way to deepen their experience by exploring odds and trying a betting platform that aligns with their knowledge of the game. From the passion of local fans to the dedication of elite players, football has evolved into a global phenomenon, blending competition and camaraderie in a powerful mix.

Professional football stands as a remarkable blend of athletic talent and strategic skill. Far beyond a sport, it shapes cultures and economies alike, with major leagues in Europe, South America, and now Asia influencing the lifestyles of millions worldwide. The dedication and athleticism seen on the field are underpinned by years of training, robust teamwork, and refined skills.


How Professional Football Developed into a Global Sport

Football’s growth from a local pastime to a worldwide passion happened swiftly, marking it as one of the most widely played sports. The game originated in England but spread quickly across Europe, then to South America and Africa, where it took root deeply within communities.

The global appeal of football lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Anyone can join a game with minimal equipment, making it a favorite sport in every corner of the world. The rise of club leagues and international competitions helped solidify football’s place as a beloved pastime and professional opportunity, with tournaments like the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup capturing the hearts of billions.


The Structure of Professional Football Leagues

Most countries have a distinct system that organizes teams into professional leagues, ensuring a structured format for play and competition. Each country’s league system operates uniquely, with a hierarchy that typically includes multiple levels, such as premier, championship, and lower divisions.

Professional leagues depend on a system known as promotion and relegation. This approach means that teams performing well in a season have the opportunity to ascend to higher divisions, while teams with poor results risk demotion to a lower level. Key benefits of this structure include:

  • Encouragement of high standards: Clubs must perform well to remain in top divisions.
  • Enhanced competition: Smaller teams are motivated to perform, knowing they can move up.
  • Financial incentives: Sponsorship and broadcasting deals grow as teams climb the ranks.

This structure keeps the spirit of competition alive, as each season brings new challenges and opportunities for both clubs and players.


The Role of Coaches in Building Winning Teams

The expertise and influence of a skilled coach are vital in the world of professional football. Coaches play a multifaceted role, working not only as strategists but also as mentors, motivators, and tacticians. They spend countless hours analyzing opponent patterns, preparing drills, and adjusting strategies to suit each match.

Many famous coaches are known for their distinct approaches. Some focus heavily on offensive play, pushing for high-scoring matches, while others prioritize defensive tactics, minimizing opponents’ chances to score. Through meticulous planning and leadership, coaches aim to build cohesive teams that operate like well-oiled machines. The coaching staff, which includes assistants, fitness trainers, and tactical analysts, collectively ensures that players perform at their best throughout the season.


Players: The Core of Professional Football

Players are the heart and soul of the sport, bringing personality and talent to each game. A professional footballer’s journey often starts young, requiring intense dedication, training, and discipline to reach the top levels. They participate in youth academies, undergo rigorous skill development, and eventually earn contracts that can lead them to national and international recognition.

Professional players develop unique skills based on their positions:

  • Goalkeepers: Known for agility and reflexes to stop incoming shots.
  • Defenders: Focused on blocking opponents and securing the team’s half.
  • Midfielders: Often the link between offense and defense, managing possession and distribution.
  • Forwards: Known for scoring and pressuring the opponent’s defense.

These players are often idolized by fans, who admire their technical ability, athleticism, and charisma, making them household names around the world.


Financial Aspects of Professional Football

Professional football generates vast revenue streams through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, merchandise, and ticket sales. Elite clubs have financial value worth billions, with top teams in Europe earning staggering amounts each season. The commercialization of football has brought in corporations, investors, and brand sponsorships eager to connect with fans worldwide.

The wealth disparity between clubs has grown, with elite teams possessing the resources to acquire and retain top players, further enhancing their market value. Yet, smaller clubs continue to thrive, especially those that focus on nurturing young talents and selling promising players. This economic model keeps the football economy diverse and sustainable.


Professional Football’s Influence on Culture and Society

Football’s influence stretches far beyond stadiums, affecting communities, economies, and global culture. Fans invest emotionally in their teams, supporting them through wins and losses, creating a community of shared joy and disappointment. The energy of fans often turns stadiums into vibrant spaces, where team chants and cheers bring an unparalleled atmosphere.

Football also has the power to inspire positive change, with clubs and players often participating in social causes. Through outreach programs, charities, and community initiatives, football serves as a uniting force that transcends borders and cultural differences.


Future Trends in Professional Football

Advancements in technology, digital media, and analytics are set to shape the future of professional football. Clubs are increasingly using data-driven approaches to evaluate players and tactics, allowing them to improve performance at every level. Streaming services now make matches accessible to a global audience, while VR and augmented reality offer immersive experiences for fans.

Youth academies continue to evolve, placing an emphasis on developing talent and promoting young players to first teams. Sustainability efforts within clubs are on the rise, as organizations are encouraged to reduce their environmental impact through eco-friendly practices and initiatives.

The future of professional football promises an exciting evolution, where tradition meets innovation, creating a sport that continues to thrive and grow in influence worldwide.

Football and Money: How the Game Generates Billions and Transforms Economies

The Impact of Money in Modern Football

Football, one of the most popular sports in the world, isn’t just a game—it’s a thriving industry generating billions annually. For fans who wish to be involved financially, platforms to register in the money game, like the popular register Aviator, have emerged, offering users unique ways to engage in sports-related betting and gaming, contributing to the sport’s economic landscape. Such platforms open new opportunities for people interested in both the passion of football and the potential for financial gain.

As football’s global reach grows, so does its economic influence, making it one of the most lucrative sports worldwide. Clubs are no longer mere teams but massive brands with diverse revenue streams, from broadcasting rights to merchandise sales. This influx of money affects not only clubs but also economies and fans across the globe.


How Broadcasting Rights Drive Football Finances

One of the largest revenue sources in football comes from broadcasting rights. Media companies, in fierce competition to secure rights, often spend billions to broadcast top leagues, such as the English Premier League, La Liga, and the UEFA Champions League. This financial investment guarantees exclusive access to millions of viewers who eagerly follow their favorite teams and players.

The revenue generated by broadcasting deals benefits both leagues and clubs, creating a robust economic structure that allows for significant financial reinvestments. Clubs often use these funds to acquire star players, which further enhances their brand and appeals to global audiences. Additionally, the lucrative nature of broadcasting rights often leads to:

  • Increased market value of teams and leagues
  • Higher quality of coverage and streaming experiences
  • Expansion of fan bases across different regions

Broadcasting deals not only enrich football but also reinforce its cultural and economic relevance on a global scale.


Player Transfers and the Economics of Talent

Player transfers are central to modern football’s economic structure. Clubs invest substantial amounts in acquiring top talents, both for competitive advantage and as a means to boost their market value. Transfer fees have surged in recent years, with clubs willing to pay millions for young, promising players and established stars alike.

The effects of these high-value transfers ripple across multiple levels of the football economy:

  • Clubs can attract more sponsors due to popular players.
  • Merchandise sales increase as fans support their favorite players.
  • Youth academies receive more attention and investment as clubs seek the next breakout star.

With clubs focusing on scouting and developing young talents, the transfer market becomes a cycle of investment, development, and profit.


Sponsorship Deals and Global Branding

Corporate sponsorships play a massive role in financing football clubs. Companies partner with clubs to promote their brands, paying substantial sums to have their logos displayed on team jerseys, stadiums, and digital media. These deals generate significant revenue, allowing clubs to diversify their income streams and grow their brand identities.

Some of the largest football clubs have sponsorship deals worth millions annually. These arrangements not only bring funds to the clubs but also expose the sponsors to global audiences. In addition to kit sponsorships, many clubs have signed partnerships for stadium naming rights, training facilities, and even digital engagement platforms. This rise in sponsorship deals contributes to the sport’s worldwide influence, giving clubs the resources they need to compete at the highest levels.


The Role of Betting and Fantasy Leagues in Football Finances

The sports betting industry has increasingly influenced football, creating financial avenues for fans who want to engage actively in the sport. Platforms such as register Aviator, for example, allow fans to participate in betting, offering both entertainment and an additional revenue stream for the sports ecosystem. These platforms attract millions of users who wish to combine their love for football with the excitement of financial speculation.

Fantasy leagues also contribute to the economic landscape of football, engaging fans and bringing in new forms of revenue. Fans who partake in fantasy leagues and betting platforms contribute to football’s economy by spending on subscriptions, data packages, and other related services. Additionally, betting companies often sponsor leagues, teams, and broadcasts, injecting even more money into the sport.


Financial Fair Play and Its Influence on Club Spending

The introduction of the Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations by UEFA sought to curb reckless spending by clubs. FFP ensures that clubs do not spend more than their generated revenue, promoting financial stability across leagues. This policy limits excessive debt and prevents financial collapse, which has affected some clubs in the past.

FFP has led to:

  • Better financial transparency within clubs
  • Encouragement for clubs to develop revenue streams
  • A healthier and more sustainable football economy

Despite criticisms, FFP has created a framework to ensure fair competition, allowing smaller clubs to compete without being overshadowed by the wealthiest teams.


Future Prospects: What Lies Ahead for Football and Finance

The future of football finance promises exciting changes. Digital media platforms and streaming services are expanding the reach of football to even wider audiences. Emerging technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality are enhancing fan engagement, creating fresh revenue streams. Moreover, sustainability initiatives may prompt clubs to invest in green technologies, further reshaping the financial landscape.

The football economy will continue evolving as clubs seek innovative ways to reach and engage their global fan base. For fans, options like register Aviator and other platforms offer ways to stay involved financially, bringing them closer to the game they love. As football grows more commercially complex, both players and fans will play essential roles in shaping its financial future.

Irishonlinecasino.ie Partners with New Brands to Promote the Best Casino Sites in Ireland

With people’s lives getting busier and free time becoming more scarce, fewer casino enthusiasts are heading to land-based casinos to enjoy their favourite games. Instead, it’s increasingly common for players to turn to online casino sites to enjoy gaming from the comfort of their homes while benefiting from exciting promotions. Naturally, this shift has led to a surge in online gaming platforms, particularly in Ireland

Until a couple of years ago, players only had a handful of casinos to choose from, but now, the range of options for casino betting Ireland is endless. Naturally, with so many sites available, it can be pretty hard to decide which online casinos to spend time with, especially if someone is new to gaming. Where can players learn all about the best online casinos in Ireland, all of which have been tried and tested? This is where irishonlinecasino.ie comes in.

Irishonlinecasino.ie: Irish Player’s Favourite Gambling Comparison Site

Online since 2006, irishonlinecasino.ie is dedicated to offering players the knowledge and resources they need to traverse the world of online casinos safely and securely. Here, players can find comprehensive reviews for the top gaming platforms in the country, covering everything they need to know regarding the casino’s games, bonuses, customer support teams, licenses, and even banking solutions available. This way, they can quickly learn about all the best sites in the country in one virtual place.

Qualities of Top irishonlinecasino.ie

As mentioned, Irishonlinecasino.ie recently teamed up with new brands to feature on their site. To ensure the best gaming experience, all new brands featured on irishonlinecasino.ie must meet the following criteria:

  • Licenses: These casinos must be regulated by professional bodies that protect players’ data and sends payouts as quickly as possible.
  • Games: These new brands offer a range of games, including slots, jackpots, table games, and live casino games, provided by various developers.
  • Customer support team: A 24/7 customer support team is essential so players can rest assured they’ll have assistance whenever needed.
  • Banking Solution: Players can make payments using a range of banking solutions, such as credit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and sometimes even cryptocurrencies. Deposits appear instantly, while withdrawals are processed within seven days.

New Brands Teaming up with irishonlinecasino.ie

Now that you know a little bit more about irishonlinecasino.ie, it’s time to have a look at some of the sites mentioned on their ‘Best Irish Casinos Page’ page;

LegendPlay

LegendPlay has been around since 2022, and since its launch, it’s amassed thousands of fans all over the globe, including Ireland. This site is home to around 2000 titles, and they are created by loved developers like Pragmatic Play, Betsoft, Playtech, and Playson, to mention a few. The slot machine section is genuinely something to behold here, and players can expect to find titles spanning a range of themes, be it Anime, Egyptian, Mythology, or Horror.

PlayHooley

PlayHooley is also a relatively new site, having only been around since 2023. The site features around 1500 titles, all provided by award-winning names in the industry, such as Microgaming, Play’n GO, NetEnt, and Pragmatic Play. Since these games are created by some of the best in the gaming field, players can expect titles with crisp and immersive graphics, launching them into another world with the click of a button.

BangOnCasino

This site opened its doors in 2023 and has already made an excellent name despite not being around for a long time. The site is home to over 1500 games, with titles from NetEnt, Microgaming, and Evolution Gaming behind the game platform. I was happy to find a variety of slot types here, such as megaways, three-reel, five-reel, video slots, and even classic slots, making this site perfect for all the slot lovers reading this.

RoyalistPlay

RoyalistPlay is a casino and sportsbook perfect for anyone looking for a luxury online experience. Players have a choice of 3000 titles from over 35 software developers. This site offers a great range of slot machines to choose from, and they’ve even got jackpot titles that go up to millions of euros, offering a fascinating gaming experience.

Mr Mega

The last site I’d like to shed light on here is Mr Mega, another casino and sportsbook option for both seasoned and beginner players. This site has been around since 2009, which means it has years of experience in the industry, and they’ve always maintained a positive reputation amongst its players. Players can find around 1000 titles in the gaming section, all of which are provided by Pragmatic Play, Wazdan, NetEnt, and Play’n GO.

Conclusion

Irishonlinecasino.ie saves players both time and money by quickly helping them determine if a platform is safe. Their new partnership is a testament to their commitment to providing readers with the best gaming options in Ireland, along with all the necessary details to help them decide if a platform is right for them.

Navigating the World of GAA Betting: Essential Insights for Fans – A guide by Betinireland.ie

It has been observed that GAA betting in Ireland is one of the most enjoyed forms of online betting pastimes. The sport is a symbol of the ethos of amateur sport where community and sport come together all over the country. These sports have always held a special place in the hearts of Irish people all over the world, whether they are cheering on their local club on a Sunday afternoon or for Irish people abroad, using the GAA as a way of staying connected to home, these sports have always been a source of pride for Irish people, wherever they may be.

Betting on sports in Ireland has always been a major part of the sporting culture of Ireland. The GAA is no different in this regard, as many people enjoy betting on who they think might win the All-Ireland or betting on one-off matches. The progress in technology over recent years however has paved the way for the emergence of online betting in the world of GAA, as fans increasingly interact with betting online, altering how they engage with GAA betting in Ireland.

The Rise of Online Betting in GAA

The growth of online betting has seen the days of punters just simply going into their traditional bookmaker and placing a bet on a county to win either the hurling All-Ireland or the Gaelic Football All-Ireland diminish. With the advent of high-quality online betting sources, fans now have an array of betting markets from which to choose from when it comes to GAA betting.

The preference of many punters these days to engage with the live, in-betting market has also contributed to the growth of online betting. Live betting allows the bettor to engage with the sport that they are betting on as the action is taking place out on the pitch. This feature allows fans to take part in the match as it is happening, thus adding another layer to the excitement and viewing experience of fans.
The simplicity and ease of use of websites or mobile betting apps have meant a huge surge in popularity in these platforms when it comes to fans betting on GAA. The fact that mobile betting apps and online betting sites are so easy to navigate for punters now means that bettors are now comfortable placing their bets on the go, instead of going to a traditional betting shop, greatly supporting the growth in this type of betting.

The surge in popularity of betting on GAA has meant an increase in the need for punters to have resources available to them that they can trust, to help them in their betting journeys. That’s where Betinireland.ie comes in. Punters need to know how and where the best GAA betting markets can be found, whilst also having access to the very latest news, analysis, predictions and insight. Bet in Ireland gives fans all of these, while also highlighting where fans can go if their betting gets too much, and it gets to the stage where they may need some professional help.

What Does Betinireland.ie Offer

When it comes to betting on GAA it could become quite easy to feel a little overwhelmed by the number of markets that are offered to punters. Bet in Ireland has you covered though, as they take the time to explain to punters, regardless of how experienced a bettor they may be, all the distinct types of bets available to place on all kinds of sport, including GAA. Whether it is backing your favourite county for the All-Ireland Championship or just betting on who will win a Connacht Championship match the team at Betinireland will walk you through how to make the bet and where the best place to make the bet is.

The team of experts at Betinireland will review and then categorise the best GAA betting sites in Ireland for readers so that fans know what site would best suit the kind of bet that they want to make. They will highlight to you what site they think is the best overall betting site for betting on GAA, the best new GAA betting site around and the best site for live betting which has become an even more important part of GAA betting in recent times.

The team will also offer readers the absolute best in predictions and insight into the major competitions on the GAA calendar every year. This gives punters the chance to learn added information before they decide to bet or not.

Finally, clear changes are happening in the online sports betting industry. Developing technologies means that fan engagement with their favourite sports has changed and will continue to do so as the industry moves forward meaning sites like Betinireland.ie will be even more useful for punters as they seek a place to guide them through the online betting world.

FPL 2024-25: Gameweek 9 Preview

Besides all the usual elements to take into account as preparation for a new FPL gameweek, European football is also a major factor this week. No less than seven teams are active in either the Champions League, the Europa League or the Conference League, and those seven teams represent a whole bunch of popular and potentially interesting fantasy assets. At the moment of writing, Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool and Man City have so far played their European game this week, winning 1-0 (vs. Shaktar Donetsk), 2-0 (vs. Bologna), 0-1 (at RB Leipzig) and 5-0 (vs Sparta Prague) respectively.

TEAMTOURNAMENTDATEOPPONENT
ArsenalChampions LeagueOctober 22ndSh. Donetsk (H, 1-0)
Aston VillaChampions LeagueOctober 22ndBologna (H, 2-0)
Manchester CityChampions LeagueOctober 23rdSparta Prague (H, 5-0)
LiverpoolChampions LeagueOctober 23rdRB Leipzig (A, 0-1)
Manchester UnitedEuropa LeagueOctober 24thFenerbahce (A)
SpursEuropa LeagueOctober 24thAZ Alkmaar (H)
ChelseaConference LeagueOctober 24thPanathinaikos (A)

As for the upcoming Gameweek 9, there is plenty on the agenda as well. Two of the sides active in Europe this week, Manchester City (at home vs Southampton) and Aston Villa (at home vs Bournemouth), have a favourable fixture this weekend. Brentford’s home game against Ipswich Town stands out as well, as does Brighton’s home game against Wolves. The major clashes take place on Sunday though, when Chelsea host Newcastle in the first game of the day and Arsenal welcome Liverpool to the Emirates for the closing fixture of the day (and the gameweek).

Don’t forget, the deadline for gameweek 9 is set at 18h30 (UK time) on Friday, October 25th, 2024. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Most transferred in/transferred out players (as per October 23rd, 2024)

 TRANSFERS OUTTRANSFERS INPOSSIBLE REASONS
GKRaya (ARS), Alisson (LIV), Henderson (CRY)Martinez (AST), Pickford (EVE), Sels (NFO)Alisson injury
DEFSaliba (ARS), Gabriel (ARS), Andersen (CRY)Gvardiol (MCI), Keane (EVE), Konaté (LIV)Saliba + Andersen suspended
MIDSaka (Ars), Diaz (LIV), Smith Rowe (FUL)Son (TOT), Mbeumo (BRE), Palmer (CHE)Mbeumo form + fixtures, Saka injury doubt
FORHavertz (ARS), Pedro (BRI), Welbeck (BRI)Raul (FUL), Wood (NFO), Watkins (AST)Raul + Wood form + fixtures, Watkins form, Pedro injury, Welbeck injury doubt

Premium pick

It feels a bit strange writing this, but Erling Haaland (£15.4m) has not scored or assisted in his last three league games. The cannons of the man who scored 10 goals in the first five league games of the season seems to have dried up a bit, for the moment that is. This is still Erling Haaland we are talking about and it’s not like he did not get any chances in the past few games. Also, the Man City forward did get on the scoresheet in the Champions League (a double last night v Sparta Prague and against Slovan Bratislava earlier this month) and for Norway in the UEFA Nations League. During the last international break, Haaland scored a brace in the game versus Slovenia. In other words, we’re not worried and with Mo Salah visiting Arsenal on Sunday, the Norwegian looks like the stand-out premium fantasy pick for Gameweek 9. Especially when you know that Manchester City welcome 2nd bottom Southampton to the Etihad on Saturday afternoon.

Non-premium pick

If you are amongst the roughly 70% of FPL managers who don’t own Bryan Mbeumo (£7.6m) at this moment, then we recommend you consider bringing him in finally. The Cameroon international already featured in our FPL Gameweek Previews a few times already and he has been steadily delivering meanwhile. The Brentford attacker, who is listed as a midfielder in the official fantasy game, currently represents about everything you want from a fantasy asset: excellent form (6 goals in eight league starts), a key role in his team, a favourable run of fixtures, set-piece duties including penalties, and as a cherry on top, an affordable price tag. This weekend’s game at home to Ipswich is followed by Fulham away, Bournemouth (home), Everton (away) and Leicester (home) for Brentford. If you’re looking for a fairly priced midfielder with serious points potential and even alternative captaincy appeal over the coming few weeks, Mbeumo should probably be around the top of your list.

The budget enabler

Looking at the table, probably the biggest surprise of the 2024-25 Premier League season so far is Nottingham Forest. The Crazy Trees have taken an impressive 13 points from the first eight league games, positioning themselves in 8th place in the process. One of the reasons why the form and results of Forest are great news for fantasy managers is that their roster is full of interesting budget options. For Gameweek 9, we have not looked much further than their highest-scoring player at this moment, Chris Wood (£6.3m). The New Zealand international leads the line for Forest and does so successfully, having scored 5 goals already. That’s exactly 62.5% of all goals scored by the entire side. In Gameweek 9, Forest are travelling to the King Power Stadium in Leicester. The local FC has already conceded 14 goals this season, though it should be said that just four of those were conceded in front of their own fans. Don’t expect Nottingham Forest to walk over Leicester here, as the Foxes have certainly circled this encounter as a must-win in their agendas as well, but currently, we consider the visitors slight favourites here.

The differential

Another forward as our differential fantasy pick for Gameweek 9 in the person of Raul Jimenez (£5.7m). Fantasy managers with some seasons under their belt already will light up when they hear this name, as the Mexican was a menace for most of the 2018-19 and 2019-20 season. Unfortunately, a serious head injury prevented Jimenez from keeping up the extraordinary performances from those seasons, but it looks like he is finding back some of his killer instinct this season. In the shirt of Fulham, who paid Wolves around £5.5 million for his services last summer, he is now on five straight league games with an attacking return: 4 goals and 1 assist for a total of 36 FPL points. And that’s not even the best yet, from a fantasy perspective at least, because you might still be on time to catch the Jimenez train. His ownership in the official fantasy game currently sits around 8% and Fulham have got a nice schedule coming up: Everton away this weekend, followed by Brentford (home), Palace (away) and Wolves (home). Don’t expect Jimenez to bring in back-to-back double-digit hauls, it was never his style, but we can easily see him add a few more attacking returns over the coming few gameweeks.

The (vice-)captaincy

Despite Mo Salah bringing in 25 FPL points over the last three league games, the same period of time over which Erling Haaland did not register a single attacking return, we are slapping the armband on the latter. The Norwegian is playing Southampton at home, while the Egyptian is playing Arsenal away from home.

Gameweek 9 is offering us a few very interesting alternative captaincy options though, especially for those who want to move away from the Haaland v Salah decision. Bryan Mbeumo at home to Ipswich Town and Ollie Watkins at home to Bournemouth look like solid FPL captains this weekend, while Chris Wood (at Leicester City) should have some appeal for the punters amongst us.

For further thoughts and discussions on the new FPL season visit FISO’s FPL forum.

Premier League 2024-25: The race for the top 4 after Gameweek 7

The Premier League is one of the biggest domestic sports leagues in the world and the participating clubs all boast various sources of income in order to compete to the best of their ability. One of those sources are so-called merit payments, which is prize money paid out by the Premier League to the clubs, based on their position in the table. This season, each position is worth about £ 3.1 million, which naturally has a considerable impact on the league’s competitiveness and in turn, on the Premier League odds every season. After all, every pound matters in a league as cut-throat as the Premier League.

Looking at last season, for example, champions Manchester City raked in £62.3 million in merit payments, while red lantern Sheffield United relegated with just £3.1 million in merit payments. But even when comparing teams higher up the table, the differences are considerable. The top four, for example, were the only teams to break the £ 50-million barrier for merit payments: Aston Villa earned £52.9 million, Liverpool £56 million, Arsenal £59.1 million and, as mentioned earlier, Man City earned £62.3.

So, on top of the promise of Champions League football and the associated tens of millions of pounds, there is also a clear prize money objective for Premier League clubs to try and break into the top 4. No wonder the race for the top 4 is a hot topic basically from the moment a new season kicks off. Being seven matchdays into the 2024-25 season at the time of writing, we are therefore taking a look at the status of the race for the top 4 at this moment, as the Premier League odds are starting to mark the (clear) favourites.

Premier League table as it stands at 18th October 2024

For the sake of this article, we have taken a look at the Premier League standings in the top half of the table (positions 10 to 1). It should be noted that traditional top-4 candidates Manchester United are therefore not included, as they find themselves in 14th place seven games into the 2024-25 campaign. Based on their historic status as top-4 contenders, we will make an exception for them here.

POSITIONCLUBPOINTS
1.Liverpool FC18
2.Manchester City17
3.Arsenal17
4.Chelsea14
5.Aston Villa14
6.Brighton & Hove Albion12
7.Newcastle United12
8.Fulham FC11
9.Tottenham Hotspur10
10.Nottingham Forest10
14.Manchester United8

Current top 4

Being seven games into the season means that there are still 31 matchdays to go still, as well. Despite the fact that so much can happen over the course of 31 matches, it’s remarkable that the current top 4 standings very much reflect the aggregated Premier League odds for a top 4 finish as well. Liverpool, Man City, Arsenal and Chelsea are the clear favourites to form the top 4 by the end of the 2024-25 season. Then again when we look back at last season, the top 5 by the end of matchday 7 was the same as at the end of the season. The only difference was Spurs dropping from second to fifth place and Aston Villa moving into fourth place.

As far as we are concerned (and the aggregated Premier League odds support this), something extraordinary will have to happen for either Liverpool, Manchester City or Arsenal to not finish amongst at least the top 4 this season. Or to put it differently: not clinching at least a top 4 finish is enough to declare the season of any of those three mentioned clubs a failure in a large majority of possible scenarios.

Subsequently, of the current top 4, we believe Chelsea is the side with the relatively biggest chance to drop outside of the top 4 by the end of matchday 38. The likes of Aston Villa, Brighton and Spurs have all competed for that fourth spot in the past few seasons, and there is Manchester United still as well. Then again, after a couple of choppy seasons, the Blues finally seem to have found some stability and a steady upward trend in terms of performances (and results) under new manager Enzo Maresca.

The chasers

As we wrote earlier, by singling out the current top half of the table (plus Manchester United), we could identify a group of teams currently chasing the top 4. At a glance, two sides can probably be considered as seriously overperforming over the first seven games of the season: Fulham in 7th place and Nottingham Forest in 10th place. No matter how good their current performance is, it does not seem likely to us that they will remain in the race for the top 4 in the longer term.

Last season, it was actually Aston Villa who finished in fourth place with 68 points, two more than Spurs and five more than Chelsea. With Champions League football on the agenda this season though, it might be a bit difficult for the Villans to repeat that feat. If we would venture an educated guess right now, we’d say that the biggest threat to Chelsea’s top 4 spot are Spurs, despite their current ninth place. Ange Postecoglou’s men definitely need to shore up their defensive for that, though.

If Spurs remain uncertain in the back, the fourth top 4 spot will probably be a battle between, mainly, Newcastle United and previously mentioned Aston Villa. Important side note: the Magpies are not active in any European competition this season. The same goes for Brighton, but we feel that a top 4 finish is perhaps a bit too ambitious to hope for in their first season under manager Fabian Hürzeler. Finally, as far as Manchester United are concerned: we know they are Manchester United and there is still a long way to go to the end of the season, but a finish outside of the top 4 this season looks like a very likely outcome for them this season.

Why Does a Derby Attract Punters in Horse Racing?

Derby races hold a special place in the hearts of horse racing enthusiasts, attracting punters from all walks of life. One key reason for this draw is the exclusivity of these events. Derbies are not just ordinary races; they are often seen as prestigious tests of skill and speed, showcasing the best three-year-old thoroughbreds in the world. This inherent quality elevates the derby above regular race meetings, making it a must-see for fans and bettors.

The allure of a derby begins with its rich history and tradition. Many derbies, such as the Kentucky Derby and the Epsom Derby, have been around for centuries, creating a legacy that resonates with spectators and participants. These events are steeped in rituals, from the iconic mint julep served at the Kentucky Derby to the elegant hats worn by attendees. Such traditions create a unique atmosphere that enhances the overall experience, making it feel more significant than a standard race day.

The thrill of a derby is always enhanced by betting alongside the races. Using data-driven professional horse racing tips from an unbiased source may not provide a definitive answer, but it can help race bettors make a definitive choice. Using horse racing tips from Racing Tipster is one such method for those special derby days, where modern tech will fuse perfectly with the long-lasting tradition of horse derby betting.

The competitive field of a derby is carefully curated. Only the top thoroughbreds qualify, often after a series of rigorous preparatory races. This ensures that punters are betting on elite horses, which adds an extra layer of excitement and intrigue. With the best horses, trainers, and jockeys all vying for victory, the level of competition is palpable, drawing in those who want to witness thrilling performances.

The betting aspect of derbies also sets them apart. The exclusivity of the race typically, like the Ascot Gold Cup, translates into higher stakes, attracting serious bettors eager to place their wagers. The odds can be quite favorable, as bookmakers recognize the significance of these events and the potential for large betting volumes. This makes the derby an appealing opportunity for punters looking to maximize their returns. Additionally, many bettors enjoy the challenge of predicting the outcomes of these high-stakes races, further enhancing their engagement.

Derbies often attract larger crowds than ordinary races, due to their reputation and promotional efforts. Event organizers invest significantly in marketing, creating buzz around the race that generates excitement well in advance. As the race day approaches, the anticipation builds, drawing spectators who may not typically attend horse races. This influx of visitors creates a vibrant atmosphere, filled with camaraderie and shared enthusiasm. Pro tip: it might be clever to book your tickets on time.
The social aspect of attending a derby cannot be overlooked, as well. These events serve as social gatherings, bringing together friends, families, and corporate groups. Long-lasting derbies like the Epsom Derby Festival even hold a special place in local and wider communities. The festive environment encourages networking and interaction, making it an excellent opportunity for socializing while enjoying the thrill of horse racing. Many attendees see a derby as an occasion to dress up and celebrate, further enhancing its appeal.

FPL 2024-25: Gameweek 8 preview

Just before going into the second international break of the 2024-25 Premier League season, a familiar fantasy name took the spotlight quite unexpectedly. Michael Antonio, who has been part of the official fantasy game for ten seasons already, got a direct involvement in all four of West Ham’s goals against Ipswich Town (1 goal, 3 assists) for an 18-point haul. Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka managed to stay in Antonio’s tracks with 16 FPL points, thanks to a goal and 2 assists against Southampton, followed by Man City’s Mateo Kovacic and Everton’s Jordan Pickford with 15 FPL points each.

Time to look forward though, which is always a bit more challenging after an international break. The previously mentioned Saka, for example, came back from England duty with a possible hamstring injury, as did Man United’s Alejandro Garnacho (with Argentina) and Noussair Mazraoui (with Morocco), to name a few. The Man United uncertainties are particularly annoying, as the Reds have a home game against Brentford, though they are far from reliable at the moment. Other fixtures to look forward to from a fantasy perspective are Arsenal’s visit to Bournemouth on Saturday evening and Manchester City’s visit to Wolves a day later. Sunday afternoon has been reserved for Liverpool versus Chelsea at Anfield.

Don’t forget, the deadline for gameweek 8 is set at 11h00 (UK time) on Saturday, October 19th, 2024. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Most transferred in/transferred out players (as per October 17th, 2024)

 TRANSFERS OUTTRANSFERS INPOSSIBLE REASONS
GKAlisson (LIV), Raya (ARS), Turner (CRY)Raya (ARS), Pickford (EVE), Onana (MUN)Alisson injury
DEFMazraoui (MUN), Konsa (AST), Saliba (ARS)Justin (LEI), Konaté (LIV), Gabriel (ARS)Justin recent attacking returns, Mazraoui + Konza injury doubts
MIDDiaz (LIV), Salah (LIV), Onana (AST)Mbeumo (BRE), Johnson (TOT), McNeil (EVE)Mbeumo + Johnson form, McNeil price + decent form, Liverpool fixtures
FORPedro (BRI), Isak (NEW), Jackson (CHE)Delap (IPS), Wood (NOT), Raul (WOL)All transferred-in forwards have recent form + price, Pedro injury, Isak injury doubt

Premium pick

In order to be considered for our premium fantasy pick category, a player needs to be priced £10m or more. As Mo Salah is visiting Chelsea, Cole Palmer is hosting Liverpool and Bukayo Saka is a possible injury doubt, the choice for Erling Haaland (£15.4m) as our premium fantasy pick for gameweek 8 was easy. Or perhaps we should say, even easier than usual, because Haaland for Man City’s visit to Molineux is not only a tap-in, so to speak, but captaincy material as well. The Wolverhampton Wanderers have managed just a single point so far this season, so it’s not surprising to see them bottom of the table, together with Southampton. The Saints are currently in 19th place though, due to Wolves’ terrible defensive record: 21 goals conceded, more than any other side at the moment. Haaland, on the other hand, has 10 goals from seven league starts and well… you know where we’re going with this.

Non-premium pick

So far this season, we have not featured a whole lot of Spurs players in our FPL gameweek previews, and perhaps undeservedly so. The fact that they find themselves in ninth place at the moment definitely has to do with that, but that is more due to their defensive stability (or lack thereof) than of their attacking prowess. Actually, only Man City, Chelsea and Arsenal have scored more goals than Ange Postecoglou’s men in the first seven gameweeks. And for the stats mongers: they also boast the best Expected Goal ratio in the entire league. Therefore, enter Dominic Solanke (£7.6m), for Tottenham’s upcoming home game against West Ham. The former Bournemouth striker, who was brought in for £65 million this summer, had a bit of a slow start in North London (in part due to an injury), but seems to have found his feet of late. In his last three league games, Solanke scored 2 goals and gave 1 assist for a total of 17 FPL points over that period. This weekend’s opponents West Ham have already conceded 11 goals in seven games, while Spurs have already scored 7 in front of their own fans. It’s true that the Hammers play more defensively on the road, but we feel a couple of goals coming Tottenham’s way on Saturday.

The budget enabler

We’re repeating ourselves, we know, but there are simply not many better budget fantasy options at the moment than Dwight McNeil (£5.7m). we highlighted the Everton playmaker in preparation of gameweeks 4 and 5 as well, and with the Newcastle game from GW7 now behind him, his appeal has only increased further. As far as we are concerned, at least. Everton’s upcoming Premier League schedule reads as following: Ipswich Town away, Fulham at home, Southampton and West Ham away, Brentford at home, Man United away and Wolves at home. That’s a “sea of green” for the Toffees right down to gameweek 14. McNeil is their most valuable player by some distance at this points, having scored 3 goals and provided 2 assists already, including two double-digit hauls in the last four league outings. He is now preparing for a visit to Portman Road on Saturday, where Ipswich Town have already conceded 5 goals in three league games. With McNeil on basically all set-pieces as well, we wouldn’t be surprised if he records another attacking return (or two) in gameweek 8.

The differential

In the four seasons between 2020-21 and 2023-24, Bruno Fernandes (£8.2m) scored at least 151 FPL points, with his 244 FPL points in the 2020-21 season a positive outlier. Going by his first seven league games this season though, we doubt whether he will be able to make it five consecutive seasons with at least 151 points. Like the rest of Manchester United, the Portuguese playmaker is having a rather terrible start to the season, which has resulted in just a single assist so far. In all fairness, if we go by the Expected Goal Involvement ratio, Bruno is currently underperforming by about 3 goals and/or assists, which suggests that attacking returns are lurking. Therefore, with Man United facing Brentford (home), West Ham (away), Chelsea, Leicester (both home), Ipswich away and Everton at home in the next six, we believe he could be an interesting differential fantasy pick. Bruno sits, after all, in just 6.8% of all FPL squads at the moment. Do keep in mind that this is for a reason, especially at his relatively price of £8.2m, because Manchester United are in bad form.

The (vice-)captaincy

Our captain in gameweek 8 is Erling Haaland for Manchester City’s visit to Wolves.

Interesting alternatives to the Norwegian top scorer are Heung-Min Son and his teammate Dominic Solanke at home to West Ham. More differential captaincy picks for gameweek 8 include defender Gabriel Magelhaes at home to Southampton, Dwight McNeil for Everton’s visit to Ipswich Town and Bryan Mbeumo for Brentford’s visit to Old Trafford.

For further thoughts and discussions on the new FPL season visit FISO’s FPL forum.

What can we expect from West Ham next season?

West Ham are one of the teams that have emerged as a real force in recent years despite not being among the traditional Big Six Premier League clubs. 

Since the start of David Moyes’ second spell in charge of the Hammers, they have enjoyed stability of performances and a structure behind the scenes. The result of this is a sudden ascent from struggling for top-flight survival to competing for the top four positions.

West Ham have taken full advantage of their European adventures as a semi-final finish in the 2021/22 Europa League was followed by triumph in the UEFA Europa Conference League the following year. This proved to be their first major trophy since 1980 and their first European victory in 58 years.

In Moyes’ third full season, there was a growing clamour for a more progressive style of play given the level of talent at their disposal. Indeed, after leading the Irons to three consecutive seasons in Europe for the first time in their history, Moyes was not handed a new West Ham contract.

The appointment of Julen Lopetegui is thus an interesting move as he is a coach with Premier League experience looking to make a bigger impression with an ambitious club. In West Ham, he finds a club willing to embrace the next chapter of their growth.

To that effect, West Ham tickets will be among the top demand in the Premier League 2024/25 season.

Despite an abrupt exit from Wolves on the eve of the 2023/24 season, Lopetegui was appreciated for what he achieved at the Molineux. He is originally known for a high-pressing, front-foot style of play that will delight the West Ham faithful who got sick of the boring brand of football played under their previous manager. 

The East London side is focusing on a structured approach, with Tim Steidten overseeing the recruitment of players while Lopetegui looks to form a side capable of challenging for European qualification places.

Par for the course, West Ham are targeting at least five signings in the January transfer window.

West Ham Ins and Outs

The Hammers have already brought in attacker Luis Guilherme, goalkeeper Wes Foderingham and defender Max Kilman so far, and they are still looking to sign another centre-back, a full-back, a central midfielder and a striker to complete their summer overhaul.

The striker department is one to watch as Michail Antonio and Danny Ings are no longer dependable to lead the line for a full season and fresh faces are needed with some names on the target shortlist.

The likes of Jhon Duran, Armando Broja, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Youssef En-Nesyri and free agent Kelechi Iheanacho have been linked to the London Stadium.

Aston Villa’s Duran is reportedly Lopetegui’s primary target and he could be available for around £40million after impressing in just 462 Premier League minutes last season. The Colombia international scored eight times in all competitions and West Ham will aim to provide the platform to kick on and establish himself next term. 

Elsewhere, West Ham are also interested in signing Danish international Matt O’Riley from Celtic who offers a goalscoring presence from midfield. He could form part of a quality squad but a move remains unclear at the time of writing. 

Jean-Clair Todibo is another interesting target for the Hammers having already had a first bid for the 24-year-old rejected because Nice are demanding around £40m. The Frenchman will provide a real boost of quality to West Ham’s defence and the possibility of another bid is yet unknown.

More defensive cover was sought in the form of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, the Manchester United right-back would excel at a club like West Ham thanks to his defensive acumen and experience which is much needed in the London Stadium. The Englishman had only one year left on his current contract although reportedly favoured a move back to the English capital where Crystal Palace are yet to show serious interest. 

Another solution to West Ham’s need for a full-back could come in the form of a swap deal involving Flynn Downes and Kyle Walter-Peters. Downes enjoyed a successful loan spell as Southampton returned to the Premier League, while manager Russell Martin’s contract extension will have reinforced his desire to make that loan move permanent. 

Nevertheless, Lopetegui’s appointment slowed down what already seemed like a done deal that works for all parties as Walker-Peters is in the final year of his Southampton contract and could be willing to go to West Ham. 

Downes has made it clear he is open to re-joining Southampton but is currently in pre-season training with his parent club, while there has been no major development in this potential swap deal, that could change very quickly. 

The Lopetegui way

West Ham’s new head coach must get the quality of players he wants to hit the ground running. Although he may have admitted that keeping Wolves up was his most difficult managerial achievement, the tactician’s preferred style of play is best measured by his three seasons at Sevilla where there was one Europa League win and three consecutive top-four finishes.

The Spaniard adopted a fluent passing game – one of his first job requirements at West Ham – and this bore success as Lopetegui was the first man to coach Sevilla in three Champions League seasons in a row. 

The specific player demands must be met for this overhaul of West Ham’s playing style to be achieved.

Yet, they have made some smart recruitment choices in recent years as the likes of Lucas Paqueta, Mohammed Kudus, Nayef Aguerd, Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse were signed to great effect. This makes West Ham well capable of a return to European competitions which is one of their primary targets going into this season.

Should they be able to achieve continental football again, West Ham will find themselves within a decent coefficient place after European football’s governing body released their annual standings which influence seedings in draws.

UEFA takes each club’s results over the previous four seasons, coupled with the home associations coefficient, to calculate club rankings. Therefore, West Ham’s 16th-placed ranking puts them ahead of La Liga giants Atletico Madrid (17th) and Barcelona (18th) as well as Arsenal (19th).

West Ham are within touching distance of qualifying for European football again and the swagger under their new manager should see them cause a threat to the biggest clubs.