This weekend brings the penultimate gameweek of this exhilarating season, followed by an additional three matches from Gameweek 34. Traditionally, teams require 36-40 points to secure Premier League survival, with the lowest ever being West Brom's 34 points in the 2004/05 season. However, for Nottingham Forest, 32 points might just suffice this year. Luton Town can only manage that many at most, and Forest boasts a significantly superior goal difference. While a fierce title race unfolds, the battle for European qualification is just as gripping, with only 2 points separating Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Manchester United. The excitement extends to the Krida games as well, with the final two rounds offering fantasy managers a golden chance to close out the season on a high note.
Key Takeaways from the Gameweek 36
Arsenal maintained their title challenge with a convincing 3-0 victory over a previously in-form Bournemouth. Manchester City, however, remains the favorites after their emphatic 5-1 demolition of Wolverhampton Wanderers. Burnley's relegation fears intensify after a crushing 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United, while Luton Town's 1-1 draw with Everton leaves them precariously placed. These results, coupled with Nottingham Forest's 3-1 win over Sheffield United, fuel their confidence in securing Premier League survival.
Tottenham Hotspur's hopes of a top-four finish were dashed after a disappointing 4-2 defeat to Liverpool, despite Aston Villa's earlier 1-0 loss to Brighton. Chelsea now leapfrog Manchester United into seventh place after a dominant 5-0 win over West Ham United, while United themselves suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace.
Players to watch out for Gameweek 37
This Premier League season has been ravaged by injuries, impacting nearly every team at some point. These setbacks pose a challenge for managers on the pitch, but also for fantasy managers who must track injuries and adjust their squads accordingly. Before diving into potential player selections, let's examine the key players unavailable for action in this crucial penultimate week:
Notable Absences
Injury blows continue to plague Aston Villa, with young forward Morgan Rogers likely sidelined after being subbed off in the first half against Brighton. At Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes, who missed his first club match due to injury in the Crystal Palace clash, remains doubtful for Arsenal's visit to Old Trafford this weekend. Additionally, Harry Maguire is confirmed out for the remainder of the season for United.
Forwards
a. Julián Álvarez (Manchester City) is quietly enjoying a good season at Manchester City having scored 10 goals and 9 assists this season without being in the limelight. The Argentine international would be eager to confirm his second league title with Manchester City as the game against Tottenham Hotspurs represents the toughest one among the remaining games.
b. Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace) scored his 5th goal in as many matches when he scored the goal against Manchester United last week. As Palace continues to enjoy better form under the new manager, the form of stars like Mateta will help them build momentum for the next season.
Tip: For 11.7 credits (933 points), Chelsea’s Noni Madueke could be a great gamble for fantasy managers. With Chelsea involved in two matches this week, Madueke provides double the opportunities to help you gain points, particularly with him being in good scoring form lately.
Midfielders
a. Pascal Groß (Brighton) burst out of the gates this season, racking up an impressive 10 assists. However, his form has dipped recently. With Brighton finally snapping their winless streak against Villa last week, they're aiming for a strong finish in their remaining matches. Groß will be a crucial figure if they're to achieve their goals.
b. Declan Rice (Arsenal) emerged as the hero in the last meeting between these sides, scoring a crucial second goal deep in injury time to secure a 3-1 victory over Manchester United. With another vital clash against United looming this weekend, Rice will be aiming to replicate his match-winning performance.
Tip: For 10.2 credits (1823.2 points), Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie could prove to be a great option under 10.5 credits. The midfielder has been a critical element of the success his side has achieved this season and would be eager to finish the season on high as well.
Defenders
a. Tino Livramento's (Newcastle United) first season at the club has been a tale of two halves after his summer arrival from Southampton. However, an injury to Kierran Trippier has opened a golden opportunity for the young defender. Livramento can now showcase his abilities and provide much-needed depth in the right-back position for Eddie Howe.
b. Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur) has turned heads in his Premier League debut season, showcasing the potential to solidify Tottenham's defense for years to come. However, his most immediate challenge arrives this week as he'll be tasked with containing the goal-scoring machine Erling Haaland when Spurs face Manchester City.
Tip: At just 7 credits (1587.8 points), Manchester United's Diogo Dalot offers a valuable pick for fantasy managers this week. With United playing twice, Dalot presents a strong opportunity for points due to his consistent performances. He's been a reliable presence in United's defense, known for providing crucial support to the attack, making him a potential source of both defensive and offensive returns.
Goalkeepers
a. Alisson Becker (Liverpool) remains a crucial part of Liverpool’s rebuild, particularly with Klopp’s departure after this season. The Brazilian goalkeeper will be crucial if Liverpool are to contain Aston Villa's resurgent attack.
b. Thomas Kaminski (Luton Town) will probably play the most important game of his career as Luton Town face West Ham United in the next match. With Hammers' attack struggling in recent games, Kaminski's ability to stop them from scoring could pave the way for Luton’s much-needed victory.
Tip: At a budget-friendly 5.3 credits (1693.4 points), Everton's Jordan Pickford presents a strong option for fantasy managers this week. While Everton's Premier League survival is secure, Pickford's motivation remains high. He'll be aiming to maintain his top form heading into the summer Euros, potentially translating to valuable saves and clean sheets for your fantasy team.
What Next?
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