The Premier League's return is a welcome antidote to the exotic cocktail of international football that has dominated our summers. This season promises to be a compelling chapter, filled with fresh narratives. New managers at Chelsea, Brighton, and most notably, the post-Klopp era at Liverpool, will shape the league's dynamics. Will Arsenal finally dethrone City? Can Manchester United rediscover its former glory under INEOS? Will Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham defy expectations? Will there be another occurrence of point deduction with both Leicester City and Manchester City under the microscope? And then there's Ipswich Town, whose return to the top flight after two decades is a romantic subplot. Their manager, Kieran McKenna, has a golden opportunity to solidify his reputation as one of football's brightest stars. With a star-studded cast of players, fantasy football enthusiasts will be glued to their screens, endlessly tweaking their lineups.
Story of the transfer window so far
The summer transfer window has been a relatively subdued affair compared to previous seasons. While some point fingers at the Profit and Sustainability rule, others cite the hectic international calendar as the culprit. The era of big-money transfers seems to be waning, with Dominic Solanke's move to Tottenham Hotspur standing out as the most significant deal thus far. Despite the overall slowdown, Chelsea has been remarkably active in both buying and selling players. For fantasy football managers navigating this complex transfer landscape, keeping tabs on every move is a daunting task. Thankfully, the following breakdown of key transfers will serve as a valuable guide for constructing your ultimate fantasy squad:
Incomings
1. Pedro Neto (Wolverhampton Wanderers to Chelsea)
2. Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich to Manchester United)
3. Niclas Füllkrug (Borussia Dortmund to West Ham United)
Apart from the above, the transfers of players like Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Amadou Onana (Aston Villa), Emile Smith Rowe (Fulham), and Savinho (Manchester City) would also present interesting choices for the fantasy managers.
Departures
1. Julián Alvarez (Manchester City to Atlético de Madrid)
2. Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa to Juventus)
3. Michael Olise (Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich)
Apart from the above, the departure of the likes of João Palhinha (Bayern Munich), Raphaël Varane (Como FC), Moussa Diaby (Al-Ittihad), and Pascal Groß (Borussia Dortmund) would mean fantasy managers would not be able to rely on these dependable names.
Players to watch out for Matchday 1
The Premier League's curtain rises on Friday night as Erik ten Hag's Manchester United host Fulham at Old Trafford. Players across the division are eager to make a statement in the season opener, setting the tone for the months ahead. Fantasy managers, too, are keen to hit the ground running, as a strong start can propel a team to glory. Before diving into potential fantasy picks, it's crucial to identify key absentees. This knowledge will help managers avoid costly mistakes and build a solid foundation for their squads:
Notable Absences
Manchester United find themselves in familiar territory with key players sidelined. New signing Leny Yoro, along with Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, Rasmus Hojlund, and Victor Lindelof, are all unavailable for the opening fixture. Newcastle United faces similar challenges, missing Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Lewis Miley, and Callum Wilson. Brighton & Hove Albion will also be without goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and attacker Solly March.
Forwards
a. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) is Arsenal's undisputed talisman. His impact extends beyond goals and assists. His pace, dribbling, and creativity are vital to their attacking play. With Saka in top form, Arsenal's chances of clinching the Premier League title significantly increase. He is the heartbeat of the team and a player capable of inspiring his teammates to achieve greatness.
b. Phil Foden’s (Manchester City) importance to Manchester City has soared. With a prolific 19-goal campaign last season, he emerged as a secondary goal threat alongside Erling Haaland. His versatility, coupled with his eye for goal, makes him a crucial asset. Foden's ability to unlock defenses and finish clinically positions him as a key player in City's pursuit of continued dominance, especially in the absence of Julian Alvarez.
Tip: For 7.8 credits, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo could be a great option for fantasy managers. He was impressive for Brentford last season and has continued that form in the pre-season matches as well. With Brentford facing Palace in the opening game, Mbeumo could help them set the tone for the season.
Midfielders
a. Mohammed Kudus (West Ham United) is a versatile attacking midfielder who brings much-needed creativity to West Ham's midfield. His ability to play multiple positions adds flexibility to the lineup. Kudus' goal-scoring threat and playmaking skills can unlock defenses and provide crucial support for the strikers.
b. Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United) was an up-and-coming footballer at the start of the last season who suffered a tough injury that set back his debut by six months. But his undeniable quality ensured that he established himself as an important member of the squad for both United and England. With other United midfielders entering the later phases of their careers, Mainoo could use this season to prove that United should build the team around him.
Tip: For 7.3 credits, Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans could be a shrewd pick for fantasy managers this season. With Douglas Luiz's departure, the Belgian is set to become a pivotal figure in Aston Villa's midfield. His ability to dictate play, create chances, and contribute to goals makes him a tempting option. Expect Tielemans to flourish under Unai Emery's guidance and potentially become a fantasy football standout.
Defenders
a. Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United) remains a world-class full-back. His exceptional performance for Newcastle United last season, highlighted by an impressive 10 assists in just 28 matches, solidified his status as one of the Premier League's top defenders. With his crossing accuracy, set-piece delivery, and defensive solidity, Trippier is a vital asset to Newcastle and a coveted asset for fantasy football managers.
b. Jarell Quansah's (Liverpool) impressive performances in pre-season have positioned him as a potential partner for Virgil van Dijk. At just 21, Quansah has already shown maturity beyond his years. With Van Dijk nearing the twilight of his career, Liverpool will be keen to groom Quansah as his eventual successor. The young defender has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Liverpool defense for years to come.
Tip: For 5.1 credits, Tottenham Hotspurs’ Radu Drăgușin is a good option for fantasy managers. The young Romanian defender has shown promise since joining Tottenham and is seen as a long-term option for the club. With a strong Euro 2024 campaign under his belt, Drăgușin could offer good value for a defender, especially if he can secure a regular starting spot.
Goalkeepers
a. José Sá (Wolverhampton Wanderers) would have his hands full as Wolves face Arsenal in the opening match of the season. His 134 saves last season ensured Wolves stayed clear of relegation battle last season and the Spaniard would be equally crucial for them this season.
b. Arijanet Muric (Ipswich Town) could be a vital asset for Ipswich Town as they return to the Premier League. With Premier League experience gained from his stint at Burnley, Muric brings a level of solidity between the sticks.
His performances for Burnley, particularly in the latter half of last season, showcased his ability to perform at the top level. As Ipswich aims to defy expectations and secure Premier League survival, Muric's experience could prove invaluable.
Tip: For 4.1 credits, Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson could be a reliable choice as a goalkeeper. Securing the number one jersey at Crystal Palace underlines the club's faith in him. With Palace's attacking flair, Henderson could be called upon to make crucial saves. His potential for clean sheets and save points makes him a tempting budget goalkeeper option.
What Next?
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