The Premier League returns for a full Gameweek 30 this weekend, following the international break and a shortened fixture list two weeks ago. Fans are buzzing with anticipation, witnessing one of the most captivating title races in recent memory. Three clubs are in contention, with Arsenal currently holding the top spot. However, this could all change as they face Manchester City in a pivotal clash that could define their respective title ambitions. Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, find themselves in the relegation zone after a 4-point penalty for breaching financial regulations. With drama unfolding both on and off the pitch, Fantasy managers strategically navigate the season's final stretch, aiming to maximize their points before the curtain closes.
Key Takeaways from the Gameweek 29
Tottenham's Champions League hopes were dented after a 3-0 defeat to Fulham. Burnley's relegation fight took a positive turn with a 2-1 victory over Brentford, putting them just five points from safety. The relegation scrap remained tight as Nottingham Forest and Luton Town drew 1-1, while Aston Villa snatched a late equalizer in the 79th minute to hold West Ham to a 1-1 draw.
Players to watch out for Gameweek 30
With a full set of fixtures this week, managers would be looking to make impactful transfer changes. Balancing strategic transfers for points with a strong core squad for future weeks is paramount. Injuries and suspensions add another layer of complexity. This information will be vital for managers navigating this critical period:
Notable Absences
Burnley's attacking options take a hit as David Datro Fofana is ineligible to face his parent club, Chelsea. Crystal Palace suffered a blow between the sticks, with first-choice goalkeeper Sam Johnstone ruled out for the remainder of the season due to injury. Manchester United's FA Cup hero Amad Diallo remains suspended for their clash against Brentford. Defensive woes continue for Newcastle United as Sven Botman misses out after undergoing surgery last week.
Forwards
a. Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) was unable to impress much with his recent outing for England but he has been brilliant for Aston Villa throughout the season. The forward has scored 16 goals and is behind only Erling Haaland in the top scorers this season. Villa would hope he adds to his tally against Wolves this week.
b. Darwin Núñez (Liverpool) divides opinion with his unique footballing skills but his numbers this season for Liverpool have been impressive. The Uruguayan forward has 18 goal contributions this season (10 goals and 8 assists), including his assist against Liverpool’s next opponent Brighton.
Tip: For 11.9 credits (1455.2 points), Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford is a surprisingly unique selection for fantasy managers. The forward has had a relatively less successful season but his form has improved recently and the game against Brentford could prove the catalyst for his future success this season.
Midfielders
a. Rodri (Manchester City) is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the league and his stats for this season prove the same. The Spanish international, known for his defensive abilities, has been effective in the attacking side as well with 6 goals and 5 assists to his name. His battle against Ødegaard and Rice would be key for City’s success against Arsenal in the next match.
b. Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham Hotspurs) is among the promising young footballers who have established themselves in the league this season. The midfielder provides solidity to the Spurs midfielder which consists of creative maestros such as Maddison.
Tip: For 11.6 credits (1059.4 points), Everton’s Jack Harrison could prove to be a good transfer choice. The midfielder was injured for almost two months when he joined Everton but scored a goal and assisted another in only his second game for them, which was against Everton’s next opponent Bournemouth.
Defenders
a. Ben White (Arsenal) might have passed upon the opportunity to represent England in the international friendlies but the defender remains committed to Arsenal’s title race. The defender would have a tough task to stop Jeremy Doku in the next match but he has already proved his worth in the same fixture earlier this season.
b. Axel Disasi (Chelsea) made a mistake in Chelsea’s FA Cup fixture against Leicester City in the form of an own goal but he has been Chelsea’s most reliable defensive option this season. As Chelsea play Burnley in the next match, Disasi remains critical to their aim to finish the season strongly.
Tip: For 6.6 credits (1191.2 points), Fulham’s Timothy Castagne is a popular choice among fantasy managers. A reliable defender, this Belgian also highlights his versatility with 2 assists to his name both coming within the last 4 games.
Goalkeepers
a. Bart Verbruggen (Brighton) might not have cemented his place as Brighton’s first-choice goalkeeper, with him sharing almost equal number of matches with Jason Steele. The goalkeeper, however, featured in Brighton's last match, where he kept a clean sheet and could prove to be a good choice against Liverpool.
b. Alphonse Areola (West Ham United) is second on the list of most saves made this season and has been very impressive for the Hammers. The goalkeeper could prove critical as West Ham United chases Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspurs for the 5th place.
Tip: For 3.5 credits (190.2 points), Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson could prove to be a great bargain for fantasy managers. While he has not been the first-choice goalkeeper for Palace this season an injury to Sam Johnstone provides a great opportunity for the former Manchester United to showcase his abilities.
What Next?
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