FPL Gameweek 1 Tips: The new Premier League season 2024/25 is upon us, and with it comes the return of Fantasy Premier League (FPL). Gameweek 1 is crucial for setting the foundation for a successful season. Making the right choices now can give you the upper hand in your mini-leagues.
Here’s a guide packed with tips to help you navigate the opening fixtures, pick the right players, and maximize your points.
FPL Gameweek 1: Matches to Target
Manchester United vs Fulham
Manchester United’s opening fixture against Fulham presents an excellent opportunity for points. With a strong home record, United’s key players, including Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford, could capitalize on Fulham’s leaky defense. Expect potential goals and assists from United’s attacking assets.
Arsenal vs Wolves
Arsenal faces Wolves at home, making this a prime match for FPL investment. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus are likely to be involved in the majority of Arsenal’s attacking plays. Wolves, struggling defensively last season, could be vulnerable to Arsenal’s offensive prowess.
Chelsea vs Manchester City
The clash between Chelsea and Manchester City is one of the most anticipated fixtures of Gameweek 1. While it may be a tighter contest, both teams have top FPL assets. Consider players like Phil Foden from City or Raheem Sterling from Chelsea for potential attacking returns.
Leicester vs Spurs
Leicester’s home game against Spurs offers a good chance for FPL managers to target attacking players. James Maddison and Harvey Barnes could exploit Spurs’ defensive gaps. Meanwhile, Harry Kane’s goal-scoring ability makes him a strong pick, with potential for goals in this high-profile clash.
FPL Gameweek 1: Players to Target
Goalkeepers
- Andre Onana (5.0) – Manchester United: Onana offers excellent value with a favorable home fixture against Fulham. United’s defense was solid last season, and with Onana between the sticks, clean sheets should come easily, making him a strong pick for FPL Gameweek 1.
- Nick Pope (5.0) – Newcastle United: Facing a Southampton side that struggled for goals last season, Pope is a reliable option. Newcastle’s home form was superb, and a clean sheet is highly probable.
Defenders
- Kieran Trippier (6.0) – Newcastle United: Trippier is more than just a defender; his attacking output and set-piece duties make him a potential double-digit scorer. Newcastle’s defense is strong, and a clean sheet against Southampton is likely.
- Ben White (6.5) – Arsenal: White is a budget-friendly option with good clean sheet potential against Wolves. His occasional ventures forward also offer a chance for attacking returns.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold (7.0) – Liverpool: Trent is a premium option, and for good reason. Liverpool’s opening fixture against Ipswich is a great opportunity for him to start the season with both clean sheet and assist points.
Midfielders
- Phil Foden (9.5) – Manchester City: With Mahrez gone, Foden could take on more responsibility in City’s attack. Even against Chelsea, his creativity and goal threat make him a solid pick.
- Bukayo Saka (10.0) – Arsenal: Saka is a key player for Arsenal and a potential captaincy option. His direct style and set-piece duties could lead to big returns against Wolves.
- Mohamed Salah (12.5) – Liverpool: Salah is always a top pick, and with a kind fixture against Ipswich, he’s likely to reward managers who invest in him. His consistency and explosive potential make him a strong captain choice.
Forwards
- Erling Haaland (15.0) – Manchester City: Haaland is the go-to premium forward, capable of scoring against any team. Chelsea may present a tough challenge, but Haaland’s ability to find the net makes him a must-have.
- Gabriel Jesus (8.0) – Arsenal: Jesus is Arsenal’s focal point in attack, and he should get plenty of opportunities against Wolves. His link-up play and finishing make him a valuable forward option.
- Darwin Nunez (7.5) – Liverpool: Nunez is a slightly riskier pick, but his pre-season form suggests he could start. Against Ipswich, he has the potential to haul if given the nod by Klopp.
FPL Gameweek 1 Captains to Target: Who to Trust with the Armband?
As the new Premier League season kicks off, selecting the right captain for your Fantasy Premier League (FPL) team is crucial. The captaincy decision can make or break your FPL Gameweek, with double points on offer for the player you choose.
Here’s a breakdown of the top captaincy options to help you start the season on the right foot.
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – 12.5
Fixture: Ipswich (A)
Mohamed Salah is the ultimate safe bet for FPL Gameweek 1. Historically, Salah is known for starting seasons with a bang. Facing newly-promoted Ipswich, who might struggle with the pace and intensity of Premier League football, Salah could be in for a massive haul.
- Why Captain Salah? If you’re looking for a reliable option who is almost guaranteed to return points, Salah is your man. The potential for a big score is high, making him a top captain pick.
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – 15.0
Fixture: Chelsea (A)
Haaland is a premium forward with immense goal-scoring potential. Even though Manchester City faces a tough fixture against Chelsea, Haaland’s ability to find the back of the net in any game makes him a strong captaincy option.
- Why Captain Haaland? If you’re willing to take a slight risk for a potentially high reward, Haaland could deliver big, even against a strong Chelsea side. His goal-scoring ability is unmatched, making him a tempting captaincy choice.
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) – 10.0
Fixture: Wolves (H)
Bukayo Saka has become central to Arsenal’s attack and is often involved in their goals, whether it’s through scoring or assisting. With a home fixture against Wolves, who struggled last season, Saka is a solid captain option for those looking for a mix of safety and differential.
- Why Captain Saka? If you’re looking for a differential captain who could still deliver big returns, Saka is an excellent choice. His involvement in Arsenal’s attack and a favorable fixture make him a great option for FPL Gameweek 1.
Gameweek 1 is all about setting the tone for the rest of the season. By picking the right players, targeting the best fixtures, and making smart captaincy decisions, you can start the FPL season with a bang.
Good luck, and may your choices lead you to a successful campaign for FPL Gameweek 1.
