Gameweek 30 arrives in the middle of six (yes 6!) Premier League sides battling to continue in the Champions League knockout stages so don’t be surprised with rotation/rest for some popular players. GW30 also marks the start of Fanteam’s EPL Sprint game covering GW30 to GW38 – a chance to play afresh with a game that lasts just nine gameweeks.

Our GW30 Score Predictions indicate a lot of close games with top sides distracted and tired from European matches. Don’t forget, the deadline for Gameweek 30 is set at 13:30pm (UK time) tomorrow Saturday 14th March 2026. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action. FISO was founded over 25 years ago in 2000 and is the longest-running UK fantasy sports online community – Independent, community-driven fantasy football analysis since before FPL existed!

Gameweek 30 begins with Burnley hosting Bournemouth and concludes with Brentford taking on Wolves on Monday night. With just nine Gameweeks remaining, fixture quality and recent form become increasingly important when identifying the best Fantasy picks.

Using the GW30 fixtures alongside the Premier League home and away form tables, we try to identify which teams are most likely to score goals and which may deliver clean sheets. We then combine those clubs with players who are both expected to start and who rank highly in FPL total points or recent form.

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GW30 Fixture List

14 Mar
Burnley v Bournemouth
Sunderland v Brighton
Arsenal v Everton
Chelsea v Newcastle
West Ham v Man City

15 Mar
Crystal Palace v Leeds
Man United v Aston Villa
Nottingham Forest v Fulham
Liverpool v Spurs

16 Mar
Brentford v Wolves

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Ranked GW30 Teams – Clean Sheet Potential

This ranking combines:

• defensive form
• opponent attacking weakness
• fixture location

Rank	Team	Opponent	Reason
1	Brentford (H)	Wolves	Wolves bottom of away form table
2	Liverpool (H)	Spurs	Spurs bottom of overall form
3	Arsenal (H)	Everton	Strong defensive home record (although Everton top of Away form table)
4	Man United (H)	Villa	Best home form in league
5	Brighton (A)	Sunderland	Sunderland low scoring
6	Crystal Palace (H)	Leeds	Leeds struggle for away wins

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Ranked GW30 Teams – Attacking Potential

Rank	Team	Fixture	Reason
1	Liverpool (H)	Spurs	High scoring attack vs struggling defence
2	Man City (A)	West Ham	City strong away record
3	Brighton (A)	Sunderland	Weak opponent defence
4	Chelsea (H)	Newcastle	Chelsea attack improving
5	Brentford (H)	Wolves	Wolves concede regularly away
6	Man United (H)	Villa	Top home form

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Goalkeepers to Consider

Caoimhin Kelleher (Brentford)

Brentford host Wolves, who sit bottom of the away form table with the lowest points per game. This is arguably the strongest clean sheet opportunity of the Gameweek.

Bart Verbruggen (Brighton)

Brighton travel to Sunderland. While Brighton’s away form is mixed, Sunderland’s attack has been among the least productive sides in the league.

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Defenders to Consider

Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

Liverpool host Spurs, who currently sit bottom of the league’s recent form table. Van Dijk offers both clean sheet potential and aerial threat from set pieces.

Nathan Collins (Brentford)

Brentford’s fixture against Wolves is the standout defensive matchup this week.

Gabriel (Arsenal)

Arsenal’s home defensive record remains strong and Everton have struggled to score consistently away despite sitting top of the Away form table.

Luke Shaw (Man United)

United top the Home form table and Villa’s away attack has been inconsistent.

Tyrick Mitchell (Crystal Palace)

Palace host Leeds, who have one of the weaker away records in the league.

Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton)

Brighton’s centre-back offers a budget route into a fixture against a low-scoring Sunderland side.

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Midfielders to Consider

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Liverpool’s talisman faces Spurs at Anfield in what could be one of the most open matches of the weekend.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea)

Palmer remains Chelsea’s primary attacking outlet and penalty taker.

Bruno Fernandes (Man United)

United’s captain is central to their attacking play and consistently ranks highly for chances created.

Phil Foden (Man City)

With City facing West Ham away, Foden provides a high-upside attacking option from Guardiola’s side.

Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)

Rogers has emerged as Villa’s most advanced midfielder and remains heavily involved in their attacking transitions.

Pascal Gross (Brighton)

Rejoined Brighton in January and has helped with set-pieces although if fully fit, Mitoma remains Brighton’s most explosive attacking player.

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Forwards to Consider

Erling Haaland (Man City)

City’s striker continues to offer the highest ceiling in Fantasy. Even in tougher fixtures he remains the standout captaincy option.

Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool)

Expected to lead Liverpool’s line against Spurs in a fixture that could produce several goals.

João Pedro (Chelsea)

Chelsea’s central striker role gives Pedro consistent involvement in the team’s attack.

Danny Welbeck (Brighton)

Brighton’s likely starting forward against Sunderland offers a solid differential option.

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Final Thoughts

Gameweek 30 looks particularly favourable for Liverpool, Brentford and Manchester City assets, with Brighton also enjoying a promising fixture. See who the FISO forum think should be their GW30 FPL captain.

The key tactical approach is likely to be:

• Target Liverpool attackers against Spurs
• Back Brentford defensively against Wolves
• Maintain exposure to Manchester City’s attack
• Consider Brighton attackers against Sunderland

Managers who combine these fixture advantages with players already performing well in the FPL points and form tables should be well positioned for Gameweek 30.

For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available

Gameweek 29 starts tonight 3rd March 2026 after just a short break from GW28 (so rotation/rests are an issue) with FA Cup matches following at the weekend. Our GW29 Score Predictions indicate a lot of close games. Don’t forget, the deadline for Gameweek 29 is set at 18:00pm (UK time) today Tuesday, 3rd March 2026. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action. FISO was founded over 25 years ago in 2000 and is the longest-running UK fantasy sports online community – Independent, community-driven fantasy football analysis since before FPL existed!

This preview focuses on the easier on paper GW29 fixtures:

• Arsenal (A) v Brighton
• Everton (H) v Burnley
• Fulham (H) v West Ham
• Leeds (H) v Sunderland
• Liverpool (A) v Wolves
• Man City (H) v Nottingham Forest

Each section includes up to two players per club (focus is on the 30 day FPL Player Form table), plus their GW30 and GW31 fixtures.

Blank Gameweek 31 Warning

FPL managers should also keep one eye on the horizon. Gameweek 31 is a Blank Gameweek for Arsenal, Manchester City, Crystal Palace and Wolves. That means any heavy investment in Arsenal or City now could quickly become problematic. Owning three players in total from those 4 clubs is manageable, but exceeding that may leave squads short in GW31 unless a chip such as Free Hit is planned. Managers loading up on City for the NFO fixture in GW29, or holding multiple Arsenal attackers for their GW30 home game against Everton, should already be mapping their exit strategy.

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Arsenal – GW29: BHA (A)

GW30: EVE (H)
GW31: Blank

Brighton away is not an easy fixture, but Arsenal attackers remain relevant.

Viktor Gyökeres – Averaging 6.0 over the last 30 days and central to Arsenal’s attack. His profile suits open away games where space appears in transition.

Declan Rice – Averaging 5.6 and heavily owned. Offers assist threat and bonus potential even in tighter matches. Injury doubt though.

The real upside may come in GW30 at home to Everton.

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Everton – GW29: BUR (H)

GW30: ARS (A)
GW31: CHE (H)

One of the clearest green fixtures this week but two difficult fixtures follow.

Iliman Ndiaye – Expected to lead the line at home to Burnley. Strong one-week appeal before fixtures toughen.

Dewsbury-Hall – Averaging 6.2 in the last 30 days. Advanced midfield involvement makes him a viable short-term pick.

Everton look attractive for GW29 only; the run stiffens immediately after.

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Fulham – GW29: WHU (H)

GW30: NFO (A)
GW31: BUR (H)

Fulham arguably have the best three-week run.

Alex Iwobi – Averaging 6.2 and increasingly involved in attacking phases.

Wilson – Averaging 5.2 and offering strong minutes security. Injury doubt though.

WHU, NFO and BUR across three weeks makes Fulham assets viable beyond a one-week punt.

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Leeds – GW29: SUN (H)

GW30: CRY (A)
GW31: BRE (H)

Home to Sunderland is firmly green.

Calvert-Lewin – Leading the line for Leeds and well placed in this home fixture.

Anton Stach – Offers central influence and potential attacking contribution from midfield along with free-kick duties.

Leeds also retain appeal for their next two fixtures.

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Liverpool – GW29: WOL (A)

GW30: TOT (H)
GW31: BHA (A)

Liverpool’s run is potentially very playable.

Virgil van Dijk – Averaging 8.8, one of the highest on the form table. Clean sheet plus set-piece threat.

Ekitike – Averaging 5.2 and central striker in a counter-friendly away matchup.

Spurs at home in GW30 keeps Liverpool investment viable.

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Manchester City – GW29: NFO (H)

GW30: WHU (A)
GW31: –

City at home to Forest is arguably the best attacking fixture of the Gameweek.

Erling Haaland – Despite a modest 5.4 recent average, ceiling remains unmatched in this fixture but will he be fit to play after missing GW28.

Semenyo – Averaging 7.0 and highly owned (55.5%). Offers explosive potential from wide areas.

This is the standout captaincy pool but beware Pep rotation

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High-Form Players Outside These Fixtures

Several players sit high on the 30-day Form table and deserve attention even without a green GW29 fixture:

Cole Palmer – 9.0 average. The form player in the league.

Bruno Fernandes – 7.4 average and consistently central to United’s returns.

João Pedro – 6.8 average and heavily involved in Chelsea’s attack.

Mac Allister – 6.8 average and strong midfield value.

Form sometimes outweighs fixture — especially for premium assets.

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GW29 Captaincy Angle

Based on form plus fixture:

1. Haaland (NFO H) but injury doubt
2. Semenyo (NFO H)
3. Virgil van Dijk (WOL A)
4. Gyökeres (BHA A)

GW29 is shaping up as a balance week: strong one-week punts from Everton and Leeds, medium-term value from Fulham, and captaincy strength from Manchester City.

Trust the green. Respect the form. For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available.

Gameweek 28 presents a strong cluster of favourable fixtures on the FDR. Our algorithm-based score predictions based on form & recent XGs for GW28 are here. Don’t forget, the deadline for Gameweek 28 is set at 18:30pm (UK time) today Friday, 27th February 2026. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Below we focus on eight standout matches for GW28:

Aston Villa (Wolves A)

Team news:
Unai Emery reported no fresh injury concerns with McGinn still ruled out. Expected attacking core remains stable.

Players to consider:

• Ollie Watkins – Leads the line and remains Villa’s primary goal outlet.
• Rogers – Advanced midfield runner supporting Watkins.
• Douglas Luiz – Central presence with set-piece involvement.
• Matty Cash – Attacking full-back in a fixture that could open up.

Wolves concede space in transition, which suits Watkins and Rogers particularly well.

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Bournemouth (Sunderland H)

Players to consider:

• Evanilson – Central striker and main goal threat.
• Rayan – Wide attacker expected to start in the front three.
• Tavernier – Creative outlet supplying the striker.
• Scott – Midfield support with forward movement.

Home fixture plus attacking continuity makes Bournemouth a strong differential play.

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Brentford (Burnley A)

Players to consider:

• Thiago – Expected to lead the line away at Burnley.
• Kevin Schade – Pace and directness from wide areas.
• Jensen – Links midfield to attack.
• Ajer – Set-piece threat and defensive upside.

Burnley have struggled defensively, making Brentford attackers attractive.

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Brighton (Nottingham Forest H)

Players to consider:

• Danny Welbeck – Expected central striker.
• Kaoru Mitoma – Primary wide attacking threat.
• Georginio Rutter – Advanced midfield role behind the striker.
• Pascal Groß – Set-piece delivery and assist potential.

Brighton at home against a weakened Forest side who played on Thursday is one of the better attacking fixtures of the Gameweek.

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Liverpool (West Ham H)

Team news:
Jeremie Frimpong returns to contention. Florian Wirtz is ruled out. After West Ham, Liverpool travel to Wolves for another enticing fixture. Virgil heads the FPL ‘Transfer In’ numbers for GW28 at about 500,000.

Players to consider:

• Ekitike – Starting centrally in the expected line-up.
• Cody Gakpo – Wide attacker with goal threat.
• Dominik Szoboszlai – Advanced midfield presence.
• Mohamed Salah – Still capable of explosive home returns, though not the standout captaincy choice this season.

Liverpool’s home control against West Ham should generate sustained attacking phases.

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Manchester City (Leeds A)

Team news:
Gvardiol and Doku remain ruled out. O’Reilly is the 2nd most ‘Transferred In’ player for GW28 at nearly 500,000 and is a Defender often playing in Midfield.

Players to consider:

• Erling Haaland – Elite captaincy option in an open away fixture.
• Semenyo – Expected to start wide.
• Nico O’Reilly – a Defender in midfield who has scored 30 points in the last 2 GWs.
• Rodri – Central control with long-range threat.

Leeds’ open style can create high-volume attacking games, which suits City’s front line.

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Manchester United (Crystal Palace H)

Team news:
Dorgu and Mount still ruled out.

Players to consider:

• Bruno Fernandes – Creative focal point and set-piece taker.
• Cunha – Expected central attacking role.
• Mbeumo – Advanced attacker in the front three.
• Amad – Provides pace and width.

Palace are missing multiple players themselves and played on Thursday, increasing the appeal of United attackers at Old Trafford.

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Newcastle (Everton H)

Team news:
Bruno Guimaraes and Lewis Miley are ruled out.

Players to consider:

• Anthony Gordon – Direct wide fast threat in great form.
• Wissa – Central striker.
• Willock – Advanced midfield runner.
• Tonali – Holding role but influential in build-up.

With Everton visiting St James’ Park, Newcastle’s attacking structure still offers upside despite midfield absences.

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GW28 Captaincy

Here are our top 4 expected choices:

• Haaland (LEE A)
• Watkins (WOL A)
• Bruno Fernandes (CRY H)
• Ekitike (WHU H)

For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available.

As Gameweek 27 arrives, many FPL managers are already thinking a few moves ahead. The dominant chip strategy emerging across the community is to Wildcard in GW32, once Double Gameweek 33 and Blank Gameweek 34 are fully confirmed, followed by a Bench Boost in GW33 and Free Hit in GW34.

That means GW27–GW31 is a crucial mini-window to attack fixture runs, build team value, and stock up on players you’ll want to carry into that late-season chip play. This preview focuses on the clubs with the most favourable runs:

• Best on paper GW27 fixture: Chelsea (home to Burnley)
• Best looking fixture runs:
  • Bournemouth
  • Brentford
  • Liverpool
  • Manchester City
  • Aston Villa

Our algorithm-based score predictions based on form & recent XGs for GW27 are here. Don’t forget, the deadline for Gameweek 27 is set at 13:30pm (UK time) Saturday, 21st February 2026. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Chelsea (v Burnley, H) – Standout GW27 Fixture

Chelsea have the plum fixture of the Gameweek at home to Burnley and Chelsea attackers will show in the captaincy voting. This is the kind of matchup where FPL managers can reasonably target both goals and a clean sheet, making double-ups very viable. Chelsea however have two tough fixtures in GW28 (Away to Arsenal) and GW29 (Away to AV) so don’t get carried away bringing in Chelsea players.

Players to consider:

• Cole Palmer – Chelsea’s talisman this season and probably the most popular GW27 captaincy option. Penalties and set pieces make him the standout.
• João Pedro – Leading the line in the predicted XI and offering explosive potential against one of the league’s weakest defences.
• Pedro Neto – Direct, high-volume chance creator who thrives against deep blocks and vulnerable full-backs.
• Enzo – A steady pick who has quietly become more involved in the final third, with assist potential in dominant home fixtures.
• Reece James – Likely starting (unlike Cucurella who is out with a hamstring injury), he offers one of the highest ceilings among defenders thanks to attacking threat and strong clean sheet odds.

FPL impact:
Chelsea are one of the clearest teams to invest in for GW27. Palmer is a legitimate captaincy candidate, while João Pedro and Neto offer strong upside for those looking to attack Burnley’s defensive weaknesses.

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Liverpool (v Nottingham Forest, A)

Liverpool travel to Forest in a fixture that looks favourable on paper and fits neatly into a broader green run. With a week’s rest at last, Liverpool will go strong, with multiple FPL-relevant attackers likely to start.

Players to consider:

• Mohamed Salah – Not going to be the top captaincy pick this week, but still an elite option with explosive away potential and strong underlying numbers.
• Florian Wirtz – Continues to offer value as Liverpool’s creative hub, with both goal and assist threat.
• Ekitike – A high-ceiling forward pick who benefits from Liverpool’s volume of chances, especially in away games against lower-table sides.
• Cody Gakpo – Versatile attacker who can return from multiple positions across the front line.
• Virgil van Dijk – Set-piece threat plus clean sheet potential, useful for managers wanting a safer Liverpool route.

FPL impact:
Liverpool attackers remain premium FPL assets during this fixture run. Salah would have been the obvious headline pick last season but less so this, while Wirtz and Ekitike offer attractive alternatives for managers looking to diversify.

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Manchester City (v Newcastle, H)

City host Newcastle in what is a trickier fixture than some of the others highlighted, but still one where Pep’s side are expected to dominate possession and chances after a week’s rest unlike Newcastle who had a long journey midweek to Azerbaijan for a very satisfying 6-1 away win. The captaincy poll reflects continued trust in City’s main goal threat.

Players to consider:

• Erling Haaland – Still likely among the top three captaincy options for GW27. Even in tougher fixtures, he remains capable of hauling.
• Phil Foden – often central to their chance creation.
• Semenyo – bang on form after signing from Bournemouth, offering differential appeal if he starts as expected wide in an attacking role.
• Bernardo Silva – A consistent minutes option who benefits from City’s dominance in home fixtures.
• Rodri – Less explosive but often involved in bonus and occasional attacking returns, offering stability in tougher matchups.

FPL impact:
Haaland remains a viable captaincy alternative for those swerving Chelsea assets. Foden and Semenyo offer other routes to potential points.

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Aston Villa (v Leeds, H)

Villa’s home fixture against Leeds forms part of a strong short-term run and is exactly the type of game FPL managers like to target. Villa after a top 4 finish suggests a front-foot approach with plenty of attacking intent.

Players to consider:

• Ollie Watkins – The focal point of Villa’s attack and a consistent FPL scorer against weaker defences.
• Rogers – Continues to offer strong value as a mid-priced attacking midfielder with goal involvement.
• Buendía – Creative hub who can pick up assists in matches where Villa dominate territory.
• Matty Cash – Offers attacking upside from right-back alongside decent clean sheet potential.
• Douglas Luiz – A reliable minutes pick with set-piece involvement and occasional goal threat.

FPL impact:
Watkins is the standout Villa asset for GW27, with Rogers an excellent midfield option for managers targeting Villa’s fixture run.

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Brentford (v Brighton, H)

Brentford’s home match against Brighton sits within a broader green patch, and they’ll look to exploit Brighton’s defensive vulnerabilities with pace and directness.

Players to consider:

• Kevin Schade – A high-impact wide attacker returning from suspension with strong goal threat when Brentford transition quickly.
• Thiago – The budget forward option who benefits from Brentford’s service in home fixtures.
• Mikkel Damsgaard – Creative midfielder who can pick up assists when Brentford are on the front foot.
• Christian Nørgaard – Not explosive, but a steady pick who can chip in with the odd return and bonus.
• Kristoffer Ajer – Offers aerial threat from set pieces plus reasonable clean sheet potential at home.

FPL impact:
Schade is the standout attacking pick for Brentford, with Thiago offering a cheaper route into their frontline for managers needing budget flexibility.

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Bournemouth (v West Ham, A)

Bournemouth’s away trip to West Ham is part of a favourable run and presents opportunities for counter-attacking returns. Their XI points towards pace and direct runners being central to their threat.

Players to consider:

• Evanilson – The main goal threat in the Bournemouth attack and the most likely source of returns.
• Kroupi Jr – A budget midfield option who benefits from Bournemouth’s transitional play.
• Lewis Cook – A steady minutes option with assist potential in open games.
• Marcos Senesi – Set-piece threat at the back and useful for managers seeking defensive coverage.
• Romain Faivre – Offers creativity and differential appeal in attacking midfield areas.

FPL impact:
Evanilson is the clear Bournemouth pick for those backing attacking returns, while Kroupi Jr and Faivre provide cheaper routes into their attacking unit.

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GW27 Strategy Note

A major theme among FPL managers right now is longer-term planning. Many are eyeing a Wildcard in GW32, followed by a Bench Boost in DGW33 and a Free Hit in BGW34 once the doubles and blanks are fully confirmed. That context makes short-term punts on clubs with green fixture runs particularly attractive, as managers look to maximise points before restructuring their squads later in the season.

For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available.

The FPL flag list has been busy in February so here’s a club-by-club roundup of FPL player injury and suspension news in February brought to you by FISO. (FISO was founded over 25 years ago in 2000 and is the longest-running UK fantasy sports online community – Independent, community-driven fantasy football analysis since before FPL existed!)

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Arsenal

• Bukayo Saka (13 Feb) – Flag removed, available again after a hip issue (was 50%).
• Kai Havertz (13 Feb) – Yellow flag, muscle issue (50% chance).
• Leandro Trossard (13 Feb) – Flag removed, available again after a muscle issue (was 75%).
• Martin Ødegaard (13 Feb) – Flag removed, available again after a muscle issue (was 50%).
• Mikel Merino Zazón (2 Feb) – Red flag, ruled out with a foot problem (return unknown).

FPL impact: Saka’s return is big. Havertz is the main pre-deadline sweat; Merino is a clear avoid.

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Aston Villa

• Alysson Edward Franco da Rocha dos Santos (12 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after a knock (was 25%).
• Ben Broggio (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Kadan Young (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Lino da Cruz Sousa (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Marco Bizot (15 Feb) – Red flag, suspended until 27 Feb.
• Matty Cash (12 Feb) – Yellow flag, knee issue (75% chance).
• Ollie Watkins (6 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after hamstring issue (was 75%).
• Ross Barkley (2 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after match-fitness concern (was 75%).

FPL impact: Watkins being cleared matters most. Cash is the only meaningful minutes-risk doubt here.

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Bournemouth

• Akinmboni (13 Feb) – Yellow flag, match fitness concern (75% chance).
• David Brooks (7 Feb) – Flag removed, available again after match-fitness concern (was 75%).
• Romain Faivre (6 Feb) – Moved club permanently (not selectable).
• Tyler Adams (11 Feb) – Flag removed, available again after match-fitness concern (was 50%).
• Will Dennis (3 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).

FPL impact: Mostly squad-depth notes; Akinmboni is the only active doubt.

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Brentford

• Benjamin Arthur (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Frank Onyeka (3 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Kevin Schade (11 Feb) – Suspension flag cleared (back available after ban).
• Kristoffer Ajer (2 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after ankle issue (was 75%).
• Mikkel Damsgaard (2 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after knee issue (was 75%).
• Reiss Nelson (11 Feb) – Red flag cleared (ineligibility/availability note resolved).

FPL impact: Damsgaard/Ajer being available helps. Schade’s ban ending is relevant if anyone was monitoring him as a punt.

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Brighton

• Ayari (6 Feb) – Red flag, out with a shoulder injury (return unknown).
• Brajan Gruda (2 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Diego Gómez Amarilla (6 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after a knock (was 75%).
• Jan Paul van Hecke (10 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after hamstring issue (was 75%).
• Joe Knight (6 Feb) – Moved club permanently (not selectable).
• Mats Wieffer (14 Feb) – Red flag cleared, available again (toe issue).
• Matt O’Riley (8 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Solly March (6 Feb) – Upgraded from out to a yellow flag (match fitness concern, was 25%).
• Tom Watson (2 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).

FPL impact: Wieffer/van Hecke clearing improves depth. March is still a minutes-risk. Ayari is the main injury absence.

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Burnley

• Axel Tuanzebe (10 Feb) – Yellow flag, Achilles issue (25% chance).
• James Ward-Prowse (7 Feb) – Red flag cleared (availability restriction resolved).
• Oliver Sonne (2 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).

FPL impact: Tuanzebe is the notable doubt; otherwise quiet.

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Chelsea

• Aarón Anselmino (3 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Andrey Nascimento dos Santos (9 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after a knock (was 75%).
• Dário Luís Essugo (14 Feb) – Upgraded to yellow flag (knock, 50% chance).
• Filip Jörgensen (4 Feb) – Yellow flag, knock (75% chance).
• Jamie Bynoe-Gittens (6 Feb) – Downgraded to red flag (hamstring, return unknown).
• Mamadou Sarr (3 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Marc Cucurella Saseta (11 Feb) – Yellow flag, hamstring issue (75% chance).
• Pedro Lomba Neto (7 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after a knock (was 75%).
• Reece James (14 Feb) – Flag removed, recovered from illness (was 75%).
• Tosin Adarabioyo (14 Feb) – Flag removed after match-fitness concern (was 75%).

FPL impact: Reece James being back is the headline. Cucurella/Essugo are the late checks. Bynoe-Gittens is a clear avoid.

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Crystal Palace

• Borna Sosa (6 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after muscle issue (was 50%).
• Daichi Kamada (6 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after hamstring issue (was 50%).
• Danny Imray (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• J. Rak-Sakyi (3 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Jean-Philippe Mateta (6 Feb) – Red flag, out with a knee injury (return unknown).
• Justin Devenny (10 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after ankle issue (was 50%).

FPL impact: Mateta is the big one (major relevance for Palace attack). Others are mostly depth/availability.

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Everton

• Elijah Campbell (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Jake O’Brien (11 Feb) – Red flag, suspended until 28 Feb.
• Martin Sherif (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Roman Dixon (6 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Vitalii Mykolenko (6 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after a knock (was 75%).

FPL impact: Mykolenko returning helps defensive options; O’Brien suspension is the main negative.

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Fulham

• Kenny Tete (2 Feb) – Flag removed after match-fitness concern (was 75%).
• Oscar Bobb (5 Feb) – Red flag cleared, available again (hamstring return).
• Rodrigo Muniz Carvalho (6 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after hamstring issue (was 50%).
• Samuel Chukwueze (2 Feb) – Flag removed after personal reasons (was 75%).
• Steven Benda (4 Feb) – Moved out on loan (not selectable).
• Tom Cairney (14 Feb) – Upgraded to yellow flag (calf issue, 50% chance).

FPL impact: Muniz back is useful for budget forward planning. Cairney is the only active doubt.

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Leeds

• Anton Stach (14 Feb) – Upgraded to yellow flag (hip issue, 50% chance).
• Daniel James (7 Feb) – Flag removed after match-fitness concern (was 75%).
• Jaka Bijol (7 Feb) – Flag removed after match-fitness concern (was 75%).
• Lukas Nmecha (7 Feb) – Flag removed after hamstring issue (was 25%).
• Pascal Struijk (14 Feb) – Upgraded to yellow flag (hip issue, 50% chance).

FPL impact: Two 50% hip doubts (Stach/Struijk) are the key GW27 watch-outs; Daniel James being available helps Leeds attack.

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Liverpool

• Dominik Szoboszlai (11 Feb) – Suspension flag cleared (available again).
• Endo (14 Feb) – Downgraded to red flag (foot injury, return unknown).
• Joe Gomez (12 Feb) – Flag removed, back available after a knock (was 75%).

FPL impact: Endo being out affects midfield depth; Gomez returning helps defensive rotation.

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Newcastle

Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães is reportedly expected to miss around two months with a hamstring injury.

FPL impact: If you own him, plan an exit. Newcastle’s midfield structure and chance creation could shift noticeably with Tonali the like for like replacement (and already helped himself to 2 goals in yesterday’s FA Cup 4th round win at Aston Villa).

For further FPL Injury news FISO’s forum has the latest discussion.

With Gameweek 26 kicking off tonight, transfer activity has surged as managers look to align short-term form with longer-term fixture runs. Using the most transferred-in players list and the Fixture Difficulty Rating table from GW26 to GW35, this preview breaks down the 10 most represented clubs on the transfers-in list and assesses whether their upcoming schedules justify the investment.

Our algorithm-based score predictions based on form & recent XGs for GW26 are here. Don’t forget, the deadline for Gameweek 25 is set at 18:00pm (UK time) tonight on Tuesday, 10th February 2026. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Arsenal

Arsenal dominate the transfers-in list this week in main due to their DGW26 but also reflecting both form and fixture appeal. Their run from GW26 to GW35 includes several favourable home fixtures and manageable away trips, alongside their Double Gameweek in GW26.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
BRE (A) & WOL (A)
TOT (A)
CHE (H)
BHA (A)
EVE (H)
–
BOU (H)
MCI (A)
NEW (H)
FUL (H)

Gyökeres £8.8m 12.8% – Form 5.2 – Points 75 – Tr In 362k
Gyökeres has attracted heavy interest as a mid-priced forward option. While Arsenal’s fixtures include some tougher away trips, the home matches against Chelsea, Bournemouth and Fulham provide strong potential for returns.

Zubimendi £5.3m 5.0% – Form 6.0 – Points 101 – Tr In 304k
Zubimendi offers value in midfield with steady points accumulation. His price makes him an attractive enabler for managers wanting Arsenal coverage without committing premium funds.

Rice £7.5m 35.1% – Form 3.0 – Points 134 – Tr In 291k
Rice continues to be popular despite modest recent form. His appeal lies in minutes security and bonus point potential, particularly in home fixtures later in the run.

J. Timber £6.4m 30.8% – Form 4.2 – Points 121 – Tr In 225k
Timber remains one of the most reliable Arsenal defenders. Clean sheet potential in the Bournemouth and Fulham home games boosts his medium-term appeal.

Gabriel £7.1m 42.5% – Form 5.8 – Points 135 – Tr In 198k
Gabriel is once again the standout defensive pick from Arsenal. The home fixtures in this run align well with his aerial threat from set pieces.

Raya £5.9m 35.0% – Form 5.0 – Points 106 – Tr In 183k
Raya offers a strong route into Arsenal’s defensive returns. The Bournemouth and Fulham home fixtures provide realistic clean sheet opportunities.

Saliba £6.1m 14.2% – Form 5.5 – Points 83 – Tr In 140k
Saliba is a slightly more differential Arsenal defensive option, with similar clean sheet prospects to Gabriel at a lower ownership level.

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Manchester United

Manchester United assets remain popular as managers target fixtures that offer scope for attacking returns, particularly away to West Ham and home to Crystal Palace and Leeds.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
WHU (A)
EVE (A)
CRY (H)
NEW (A)
AVL (H)
BOU (A)
LEE (H)
CHE (A)
BRE (H)
LIV (H)

Bruno Fernandes £9.8m 36.0% – Form 8.8 – Points 141 – Tr In 284k
Fernandes continues to lead the midfield transfers. His involvement in goals and assists makes him fixture-proof to an extent, though the home matches against Crystal Palace and Leeds are particularly appealing.

Mbeumo £8.6m 22.1% – Form 7.2 – Points 103 – Tr In 219k
Mbeumo offers a strong alternative midfield pick with differential potential. His appeal is strongest in the fixtures against Crystal Palace and Leeds.

Dalot £4.5m 4.4% – Form 5.0 – Points 85 – Tr In 101k
Dalot provides budget defensive coverage for United. Clean sheets are less reliable in this run, but his attacking threat offers upside.

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Chelsea

Chelsea’s fixture run includes a cluster of home matches and several green-rated games, making their midfield and forward options appealing.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
LEE (H)
BUR (H)
ARS (A)
AVL (A)
NEW (H)
EVE (A)
MCI (H)
MUN (H)
BHA (A)
NFO (H)

João Pedro £7.6m 44.0% – Form 9.5 – Points 122 – Tr In 262k
João Pedro is one of the standout forward picks for this run. Home fixtures against Leeds and Burnley provide immediate opportunities for goals.

Palmer £10.5m 13.8% – Form 7.8 – Points 67 – Tr In 201k
Palmer’s ownership remains relatively low for a premium-priced midfielder. His creative output and penalty potential make him an intriguing differential.

Enzo £6.9m 23.1% – Form 6.0 – Points 116 – Tr In 92k
Enzo’s steady returns and budget-friendly price point make him a useful squad option during Chelsea’s favourable home run.

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Liverpool

Liverpool’s run features a mix of fixtures, but several green-rated games provide opportunities for attacking returns.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
SUN (A)
NFO (A)
WHU (H)
WOL (A)
TOT (H)
BHA (A)
FUL (H)
EVE (A)
CRY (H)
MUN (A)

Ekitiké £8.9m 25.7% – Form 4.5 – Points 102 – Tr In 103k
Ekitiké remains a popular Liverpool forward. The away fixtures against Sunderland and Nottingham Forest are particularly attractive for short-term returns.

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Crystal Palace

Palace assets are being targeted largely on the back of fixture difficulty rather than explosive form.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
BUR (H)
WOL (H)
MUN (A)
TOT (A)
LEE (H)
–
NEW (H)
WHU (H)
LIV (A)
BOU (A)

Sarr £6.3m 3.4% – Form 4.2 – Points 69 – Tr In 112k
Sarr offers differential midfield appeal, with two favourable home fixtures immediately in GW26 and GW27.

Muñoz £5.8m 7.7% – Form 2.0 – Points 97 – Tr In 104k
Muñoz is being brought in as a budget defensive option, primarily for the Burnley and Wolves home fixtures.

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Aston Villa

Villa’s fixtures include a strong home run, making their midfield assets popular targets.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
BHA (H)
LEE (H)
WOL (A)
CHE (H)
MUN (A)
WHU (H)
NFO (A)
SUN (H)
FUL (A)
TOT (H)

Rogers £7.6m 30.2% – Form 5.5 – Points 123 – Tr In 129k
Rogers benefits from multiple home fixtures in this run. Matches against Leeds, Chelsea and Sunderland at home provide scope for attacking returns.

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West Ham

West Ham’s midfield options are being targeted despite a mixed run of fixtures.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
MUN (H)
BOU (H)
LIV (A)
FUL (A)
MCI (H)
AVL (A)
WOL (H)
CRY (A)
EVE (H)
BRE (A)

Summerville £5.6m 2.1% – Form 9.0 – Points 74 – Tr In 94k
Summerville’s recent form explains the transfer interest, though his fixtures are less forgiving. He remains a higher-risk differential pick.

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Wolves

Wolves assets are being transferred in despite a challenging fixture run.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
NFO (A) & ARS (H)
CRY (A)
AVL (H)
LIV (H)
BRE (A)
–
WHU (A)
LEE (A)
TOT (H)
SUN (H)

Mané £4.6m 2.8% – Form 2.0 – Points 42 – Tr In 93k
Mané is a budget forward pick, but Wolves’ fixtures are difficult overall. His appeal lies primarily in price rather than fixture quality.

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Bournemouth

Bournemouth’s assets are being targeted for short-term fixture relief.

Upcoming fixtures (GW26–GW35)
EVE (A)
WHU (A)
SUN (H)
BRE (H)
BUR (A)
MUN (H)
ARS (A)
NEW (A)
LEE (H)
CRY (H)

Kroupi Jr £4.7m 6.9% – Form 3.0 – Points 66 – Tr In 92k
Kroupi Jr offers a low-cost attacking option. Home fixtures against Sunderland and Leeds provide the main appeal.

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Final Thoughts

Arsenal dominate the transfers-in list for good reason with their DGW26, with depth of assets and also a favourable run of home fixtures. Chelsea and Manchester United offer strong short-term opportunities, particularly in midfield and forward positions. Liverpool remain viable for attacking returns, while clubs like Crystal Palace and Bournemouth provide budget enablers for managers restructuring their squads.

The key for GW26 is not simply following the crowd, but understanding where fixture quality genuinely supports the transfer trends.

For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available.

As we move into GW25, FPL managers are entering one of the most important planning windows of the season. Transfer activity is accelerating, fixture difficulty begins to diverge sharply between clubs, and a Double Gameweek in GW26 for Arsenal and Wolves adds another layer of strategic complexity.

Looking beyond single Gameweek punts, the smarter approach is to align transfer targets with favourable fixture runs over the next four to six Gameweeks. By comparing the most transferred-in players for GW25 with the Fixture Difficulty Rating (FDR) from GW25 to GW30, we can identify the players who combine form, momentum and opportunity.

This article highlights ten popular transfer targets who also benefit from a strong run of fixtures, with a particular focus on teams who enjoy clusters of green fixtures and those with double gameweek upside.

Our algorithm-based score predictions for GW25 are here. Don’t forget, the deadline for Gameweek 25 is set at 18:30pm (UK time) tonight on Friday, 6th February 2026. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

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Arsenal – DGW26 Upside with a Stable Fixture Run

Arsenal remain one of the most reliable teams in FPL, and their schedule from GW25 to GW30 is well balanced. They avoid prolonged runs of red fixtures and crucially have a Double Gameweek in GW26 (both away against Brentford and Wolves), which significantly boosts the appeal of their core assets.

Upcoming easy (green) fixtures for Arsenal:

• GW25: Sunderland (H)
• GW26: Wolves (A)
• GW30: Everton (H)

Gabriel – £7.1m, 40.6% ownership
Gabriel continues to justify his heavy ownership with consistent defensive returns and strong bonus point potential. The upcoming home match in GW25 provides a strong clean sheet opportunity, while the Double Gameweek in GW26 gives him two chances to deliver points in one round. For managers prioritising defensive stability, Gabriel remains one of the safest long-term picks.

Jurrien Timber – £6.4m, 29.0% ownership
Timber offers a slightly more attacking route into the Arsenal defence at a marginally lower price point. With Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures offering clean sheet potential and the added DGW26 upside, Timber is a strong alternative for managers who want Arsenal coverage without doubling up on centre-backs.

Declan Rice – £7.5m, 32.9% ownership
Rice remains popular due to his reliability and steady stream of returns. While not explosive, he benefits from Arsenal’s structured dominance in matches against weaker opponents. The Double Gameweek in GW26 adds further value, making Rice a sensible medium-term midfield anchor for managers seeking consistency.

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Chelsea – One of the Best Fixture Runs in the League

Chelsea’s upcoming run from GW25 to GW30 stands out as one of the most favourable in the league, with multiple green fixtures offering both attacking and defensive potential. This explains the strong transfer interest in Chelsea assets ahead of GW25.

Upcoming easy (green) fixtures for Chelsea:

• GW25: Wolves (A)
• GW26: Leeds (H)
• GW27: Burnley (H)

João Pedro – £7.5m, 41.1% ownership
João Pedro has quickly become one of the most popular forward picks in the game. Chelsea’s run of favourable fixtures aligns perfectly with his form, making him a reliable source of goals and bonus points over the next few Gameweeks. While his ownership limits his differential appeal, he offers strong protection for managers looking to consolidate rank.

Enzo – £6.8m, 22.7% ownership
Enzo offers a slightly more understated route into Chelsea’s attacking output. With green fixtures ahead, he is well placed to accumulate steady returns through goals, assists and bonus involvement. His ownership keeps him in a useful middle ground between safety and upside.

Chalobah – £5.7m, 23.7% ownership
Chalobah provides budget-friendly access to Chelsea’s defence during a period where clean sheets are more likely. For managers looking to restructure their back line, he represents good value without sacrificing fixture quality.

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Liverpool – Fixture Swings Create Short-Term Opportunities

Liverpool’s schedule is mixed overall, but they enjoy a favourable run in the middle of the GW25–GW30 window. This makes certain Liverpool attackers appealing medium-term holds rather than long-term locks.

Upcoming easy (green) fixtures for Liverpool:

• GW28: West Ham (H)
• GW29: Wolves (A)

Ekitike – £8.9m, 25.8% ownership
Ekitike remains one of the most appealing Liverpool attackers, combining strong involvement with an upcoming period of softer fixtures. Managers backing Ekitike are likely targeting those specific green fixtures where Liverpool’s attacking ceiling is highest.

Wirtz – £8.3m, 13.9% ownership
Wirtz stands out as a genuine differential option. With relatively low ownership, he offers upside for managers willing to take a calculated risk. The green fixtures provide a platform for Wirtz to deliver returns that could significantly impact rank if Liverpool find rhythm in attack.

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Manchester United – Popular Picks Despite Mixed Fixtures

Manchester United’s fixtures are more mixed than some of the other clubs highlighted, but their key players remain popular due to form and role security rather than fixture quality alone.

Upcoming easy (green) fixtures for Manchester United:

• GW26: West Ham (A)
• GW28: Palace (H)

Bruno Fernandes – £9.7m, 32.7% ownership
Bruno remains one of the most reliable premium midfielders in the game. While United’s fixtures are not uniformly green, Bruno’s involvement in goals and assists makes him relatively fixture-proof. He remains a strong long-term hold for managers who value reliability.

Cunha – £8.0m, 8.9% ownership
Cunha offers differential appeal for managers seeking upside beyond the obvious picks. His ownership remains low, and with a couple of green fixtures on the horizon, he has the potential to quietly outperform more popular options.

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Bournemouth – Budget Enablers with Green Patches

Bournemouth enjoy a run of manageable fixtures that make their budget assets more appealing than usual, particularly for managers seeking squad depth.

Upcoming easy (green) fixtures for Bournemouth:

• GW27: West Ham (A)
• GW28: Sunderland (H)
• GW30: Burnley (A)

Senesi – £4.8m, 15.3% ownership
Senesi provides a low-cost defensive option with a reasonable chance of returns during Bournemouth’s green fixtures. While Bournemouth are not an elite defensive side, the fixture run offers opportunities for clean sheets and bonus points, making Senesi a useful budget rotation option.

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Strategic Takeaways

This planning window is defined by three core themes. Arsenal and Wolves benefit from a Double Gameweek in GW26, which elevates even steady performers into high-value picks. Chelsea’s run of green fixtures makes them one of the most important teams to invest in over the next month. Liverpool and Manchester United offer selective opportunities where timing transfers around fixture swings can unlock upside.

Managers who align transfers with fixture runs rather than chasing recent points are far more likely to gain ground over this period. Balancing high-ownership safety picks with one or two well-timed differentials remains the optimal strategy.

For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available.

This write-up pulls together all of Erling Haaland’s playing minutes for Manchester City (across all competitions) and for Norway for the 2025/26 season up to Friday 30 January 2026. The two visuals generated are:

• Graph A: rolling 7-day total minutes across the season

• Graph B: match-by-match minutes with key anomalies labelled

The goal is practical: identify when Erling Haaland is “fresh”, when he’s being load-managed, and how to spot the next likely rest before the FPL deadline.

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What we measured and why it works

We looked at workload two ways.

1. Rolling 7-day minutes (Graph A)
   For each match date, we summed Haaland’s minutes across the previous seven days. This is the cleanest single number for congestion because it captures what managers actually worry about: how much football he’s had recently, regardless of competition.
2. Match-by-match minutes (Graph B)
   This shows how Pep actually manages him in real life: full 90s, planned subs, cup hooks, and rare bench appearances.

Used together, these two views answer both questions FPL Managers care about:

• “How overloaded was he leading into a rest?” (Graph A)
• “What does a rest look like in Pep’s selection pattern?” (Graph B)

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Key finding 1: January produced the biggest congestion spike of the season

The standout feature in Graph A is the highest rolling 7-day total occurring in early January 2026.

That peak is explained by a classic congestion cluster:

• 2026-01-01 (Premier League vs Sunderland): 90
• 2026-01-04 (Premier League vs Chelsea): 90
• 2026-01-07 (Premier League vs Brighton): 90

That’s 270 minutes in six days, which is basically three full matches without meaningful recovery time. When you see the rolling 7-day line climb to that level, you’re not just looking at “a lot of minutes” — you’re looking at a risk point where elite forwards become more likely to be protected.

This is why the rolling view is so useful: it identifies stress windows that aren’t obvious when you just scan fixtures.

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Key finding 2: The Wolves benching wasn’t random — it’s load management

On 24 January 2026 Haaland was benched and only played 18 minutes against Wolves in the EPL. Graph B flags this as the most extreme minutes drop of the season.

Graph A explains why it happened.

In the week leading into that match, Haaland’s minutes stack up as:

• 2026-01-13 (EFL Cup semi-final vs Newcastle): 90
• 2026-01-17 (Premier League vs Man United): 79
• 2026-01-20 (Champions League vs Bodø/Glimt): 90

That’s 259 minutes inside seven days. Even before you factor travel and match intensity, this is a heavy load. And it comes after an already congested start to the month.

So Wolves (18 minutes) wasn’t a tactical surprise or a performance-based decision. The pattern fits deliberate workload protection.

From an FPL perspective, this is the exact type of benching you can sometimes anticipate:

• not because “Pep roulette”
• but because the workload number is shouting that a managed game is likely

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Key finding 3: Haaland is normally a 90-minute player — so low minutes are meaningful

Graph B shows an important baseline: across league and Champions League matches, Haaland’s typical appearance is very close to 90 minutes. That matters because:

• if a player is routinely hooked at 65–75, occasional benching is less predictable
• but if a player is usually a full-match starter, sudden drops (45, 26, 18) are strong signals

In this dataset, the “low-minute” events are not noise. They are identifiable interventions.

Two particularly instructive examples:

• 45 minutes vs Exeter in the FA Cup (10 Jan): classic planned cup load management
• 18 minutes vs Wolves (24 Jan): classic league load management after a heavy week

So the story isn’t “Haaland is rotated constantly.” The story is: he’s trusted for 90 most of the time, then managed sharply when the schedule or workload forces it.

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A practical workload rule of thumb from the season pattern

This is the part you can actually use week-to-week.

Looking at the season’s rolling 7-day pattern and the resulting “management events”, a sensible risk scale is:

• Under ~180 rolling minutes (7 days): low rotation risk
• Around 200–240: rising substitution/managed-minutes risk
• Around 250+: high probability of either a bench, an early hook, or reduced involvement in one match

This isn’t a medical diagnosis and it isn’t perfect. But it matches what we saw around the Wolves rest: the rolling minutes were very high, and the response was a bench.

The key is not treating the number as a binary yes/no. Use it as a warning light:

• If you’re captaining Haaland, you want to be confident he’s on the pitch for 80–90.
• If you’re deciding between him and another premium, you want to know when his minutes ceiling might be capped.

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How to use this to predict the next rest

To anticipate another Wolves-style situation, watch for the same ingredients:

1. Three matches within seven days, especially if two are 90s
2. One of those matches is Champions League (often higher intensity)
3. The next league opponent is “manageable” (a fixture City believe they can win without 90 minutes from Haaland)
4. City have another important match within the following 3–5 days

In other words: the rest is more likely when the fixture is still winnable and the schedule demands protection.

This is why workload tracking matters more than opponent strength alone. Managers often assume the toughest opponent means the player starts. In reality, fixture sequencing often matters more than fixture difficulty.

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What this suggests about Haaland specifically

The dataset supports three clear conclusions:

1. His default is maximum minutes
   He is not routinely rotated. When he starts league and Champions League matches, he frequently plays close to 90.
2. Pep manages him sharply when needed
   When the schedule compresses, the management is decisive: a bench, a short cameo, or a cup hook.
3. The “rest events” have context
   Wolves wasn’t random. It followed a heavy seven-day period that was visible in the rolling minutes.

That last point is the real value: you can’t predict every Pep decision, but you can identify when a rest becomes rational — and therefore more likely.

For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Using the FPL Fixture Difficulty Rating summed objectively across GW24–GW27, and applying the colour key (green = 1 through dark red = 5), six clubs clearly emerge as the best targets for this period:

1. Chelsea (total FDR = 8)
2. Crystal Palace (9)
3. Manchester United (10)
4. Bournemouth (10)
5. Arsenal (11)
6. Everton (11)

These teams combine fixture consistency, manageable opponents, and strong potential for both attacking and defensive returns. Below, we break down each club’s appeal, then highlight players from the Player Form and Defensive Contributions (CBIT) tables who best fit this window. Our algorithm-based score predictions for GW24 are here. (N.B. prices and ownership per GW22 so could now be a little out of date). With the introduction of Defensive Contribution (CBIT) points this season, squad construction now rewards not just clean sheets and goals, but also sustained defensive workload — particularly from centre-backs in teams expected to defend leads or face consistent pressure.

Don’t forget, the deadline for Gameweek 24 is set at 13:30pm (UK time) on Saturday, 31st January 2026. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

The Six Clubs With the Best GW24–GW27 Fixture Runs

Chelsea – The Clear Standout

Chelsea are the only club with four straight FDR-2 fixtures, giving them the lowest total difficulty by a clear margin. This is exactly the kind of run that rewards early investment, particularly in assets with secure minutes.

In midfield, Enzo Fernández (£6.5m, 12.2%) stands out as a reliable accumulator. His form score may not scream explosive hauls, but Chelsea’s ability to dominate possession in these fixtures suits his profile perfectly, delivering steady points through involvement, passing volume and occasional returns.

Up front, João Pedro (£7.2m, 29.0%) remains the most attractive attacking option. His ownership reflects growing confidence among managers, and this run provides multiple opportunities for returns without needing him to overperform.

Defensively, Chelsea are well suited to the new CBIT scoring. Reece James (£5.7m, 11%) offers the ideal blend of clean-sheet potential and attacking upside, while Chalobah (£5.6m, 21.3%) provides another route with strong defensive contribution potential in matches where Chelsea are expected to control territory.

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Crystal Palace – Defensive Value in Plain Sight

Palace’s FDR total of 10 over the next 4 GWs places them in the top tier, largely because they avoid elite attacking sides across this four-week span. This makes them particularly attractive under the Defensive Contributions scoring system although they are now bottom of the 6 game form table, having lost Marc Guehi to Man City, so are only for those FPL managers looking to gamble against the grain.

While Palace attackers such as Mateta remain more situational, their defenders are quietly among the best value picks in the game. Maxence Lacroix (£5.1m, 6%) features prominently in the CBIT table, regularly reaching the 10-action threshold even when clean sheets are missed. Munoz £5.8m (6%) has the most bonus points of the remaining Palace defenders.

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Manchester United – Balanced Fixtures, Targeted Investment

Manchester United’s summed FDR of 10 reflects a run that is neither spectacular nor threatening, but critically free of red fixtures.

From the Player Form table, Matheus Cunha (£8.0m, 6.4%) remains United’s most interesting attacking option. His ownership keeps him firmly in differential territory, and the fixture run suggests opportunities for returns without needing United to dominate games.

Defensively, United assets benefit from both clean-sheet potential and CBIT accumulation. Diogo Dalot (£4.5m, 5.0%) combines attacking involvement with defensive workload, while centre-backs continue to score well under the contribution system in tighter matches. The player at the top of the FPL form table though is Patrick Dorgu (£4.4m 9.4%) but he’s not likely to play GW24 due to a hamstring injury.

United are best approached selectively, but their place in the top six fixture runs is fully justified.

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Bournemouth – Attack-Friendly Fixtures, Underrated Defence

Bournemouth also sit on a total FDR of 10, and their fixture run is particularly attractive for managers chasing attacking upside without paying premium prices.

From the Player Form table, Bournemouth attackers remain viable rotation options, especially against mid-table and bottom-half opposition. However, the real value lies at the back.

Marcos Senesi (£4.8m, 14%) is one of the standout defenders under CBIT scoring, ranking near the top of the Defensive Contributions table. In fixtures where Bournemouth are expected to defend deeper, Senesi’s ability to rack up clearances and blocks makes him a genuine set-and-forget option for this period.

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Arsenal – Fixture Consistency Over Colour

Arsenal’s total FDR of 11 might not look exceptional at first glance but they are the League leaders. This makes their assets extremely predictable.

In midfield, Martin Ødegaard (£7.8m, 2.3%) is one of the best differentials in the game. Recent returns underline his form, and Arsenal’s ability to control matches ensures he remains heavily involved across all four fixtures.

Defensively, Gabriel (£6.9m, 38%) continues to justify his popularity. He combines clean-sheet probability with strong CBIT output and set-piece threat, making him one of the safest defensive picks available through GW27.

Arsenal may not offer explosive upside every week, but they are ideal for managers prioritising stability and consistency.

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Everton – A Defensive Run Worth Trusting

Everton’s fixture total also comes in at 11, but their value lies in the type of matches they face rather than the headline difficulty.

Everton are particularly strong under the Defensive Contributions system. James Tarkowski (£5.8m, 14%) is arguably the single best CBIT defender in the league, frequently earning contribution points regardless of clean sheets. Over a four-week window like this, that reliability compounds quickly.

In midfield, James Garner (£5.2m, 4.6%) offers budget value with genuine involvement. His form score and minutes security make him an excellent enabler for managers restructuring squads around premium attackers.

Everton assets won’t haul often, but they offer one of the strongest cumulative points floors across GW24–GW27.

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Why CBIT Scoring Changes the Equation

This season’s CBIT rule — awarding two FPL points to any defender reaching 10 combined clearances, blocks, interceptions and tackles — fundamentally shifts how defenders should be evaluated.

Across this fixture window:

• Palace, Everton and Bournemouth defenders benefit even when conceding once
• Centre-backs in mid-table sides become more valuable than full-backs reliant on attacking returns
• Fixture difficulty must be viewed alongside expected defensive workload, not just clean-sheet odds

Managers who ignore CBIT data risk leaving steady points on the table every week.

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Final Thoughts – GW24 Is About Structure

GW24 isn’t about chasing last week’s haul. It’s about positioning your squad to accumulate points steadily across four favourable fixtures.

Based on objective FDR totals:

• Chelsea are the standout priority
• Man United and Bournemouth offer value through defence and selective attack
• Arsenal and Everton provide consistency and reliability
• Crystal Palace if you need to gamble.

Trust the numbers, respect the fixture run, and let others chase noise

For further discussions have a look at FISO’s FPL forum where you can also see the FPL mini-leagues and FPL side-games available.