Fantasy Premier League managers are grappling with challenging choices about which players to acquire, retain, or discard as the deadline for Gameweek 4 approaches on 14 September at 11:00 BST. Insights from some of the leading Fantasy managers can help navigate these decisions.
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) £10.1m - Holly Shand (@HollyShand): Saka has had a strong start to the season, contributing to every match with 10 shots and eight key passes. However, he is falling behind top-tier players like Mohamed Salah (£12.6m) and Erling Haaland (£15.2m). With Arsenal facing tough matches against Tottenham and Manchester City, it could be wise to sell him now and consider bringing him back later. Verdict: Sell.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) £8.9m - Nick Harris (@WGTA_Nick): Watkins is currently a hold. His performance has not met expectations, prompting some owners to consider budget alternatives like Joao Pedro (£5.7m) for better financial flexibility. However, with upcoming fixtures against teams that have conceded heavily, Watkins may soon deliver valuable points. Verdict: Keep.
Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea) £7.6m - Utkarsh Dalmia (@ZopharFPL): After Chelsea opted not to sign a striker and with Jackson securing a new contract, he is likely to remain the main striker. He showed a high Expected Goal Involvement in the last match, making him a promising differential pick at just 5.9% ownership. Verdict: Buy.
Bruno Fernandes (Man Utd) £8.4m - Gianni Buttice (@GianniButtice): While Fernandes has underperformed relative to his Expected Goals, his upcoming match against Southampton offers potential. He should be retained for this week, but if he fails to score again, selling may be necessary. Verdict: Keep.
Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) £7.1m - Pras (@Pras_FPL): Following a strong Gameweek 3, Mbeumo faces a challenging away game against Manchester City in Gameweek 4. It may be prudent to wait until Gameweek 6 when Brentford's fixtures improve before considering his acquisition. However, if he is already in your squad, he remains a viable option. Verdict: Buy in GW6.
Diogo Jota (Liverpool) £7.6m - Sam Bonfield (@FPLFamily): Jota was an appealing choice at the start of the season and has shown promise with several attempts on goal. If budget allows, transitioning to Salah might be beneficial, but for those who own Jota, holding him is advisable given the favorable upcoming fixtures. Verdict: Keep.
Anthony Gordon (Newcastle) £7.4m - Pranil Sheth (@lateriser12): Gordon remains in my lineup for the next few weeks before I consider a Wildcard. His prospects look good against Wolves, who have struggled defensively, and the addition of Tonali could enhance Newcastle's offensive capabilities. Verdict: Keep.
Josko Gvardiol (Man City) £6.0m - Lee Bonfield (@FPLFamily): With Rico Lewis taking on a more attacking role, Gvardiol may be expendable, especially if funds are needed to bring in players like Trent Alexander-Arnold. Verdict: Sell.
Daniel Munoz (Crystal Palace) £5.0m - Utkarsh Dalmia (@ZopharFPL): Despite Palace's shaky defense, there is potential for Munoz to perform better in the upcoming home matches against Leicester and Manchester United. It’s reasonable to hold onto him for at least two more weeks in hopes of improved results. Verdict: Keep.