Fantasy Premier League: Pre-Season Lessons and Takeaways

Fantasy Premier League: Pre-Season Lessons and Takeaways

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool holds up Kai Havertz of Chelsea during the Carabao Cup Final match between Chelsea and Liverpool at Wembley Stadium on February 27, 2022 in London, England(Image- Getty)

As the 2024/25 Premier League season approaches, Fantasy managers are closely watching pre-season friendlies for insights into player form and team dynamics. The Scout highlights key takeaways from recent matches, focusing on top performers, emerging trends, and potential transfer targets.

Mohamed Salah and Kai Havertz Find Form

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah (£12.5m) and Arsenal's Kai Havertz (£8.0m) both scored their first goals of pre-season, indicating a return to form for these Fantasy favorites. Salah's opener against Arsenal followed Son Heung-min's (£10.0m) two goals for Tottenham Hotspur, suggesting that midfield big-hitters are starting to find their footing.

Erling Haaland's Ownership Drops

Meanwhile, Manchester City forward Erling Haaland (£15.0m) is struggling with muscle problems, leading to a one percent drop in ownership over the last 24 hours. This development may prompt Fantasy managers to shift funds into midfield, where players like Salah, Son, and Havertz are showing promise.

Budget Midfielders Make an Impression

Harvey Elliott (£5.5m) and Fabio Carvalho (£5.0m) impressed for Liverpool, with Elliott assisting both goals in their 2-1 win over Arsenal. These budget midfielders are making a case for inclusion in Fantasy squads, particularly given Liverpool's favorable opening fixtures.

Marcus Rashford and Christopher Nkunku Shine

Manchester United's Marcus Rashford (£7.0m) claimed his first attacking returns of the summer, converting a penalty and assisting Casemiro's (£5.0m) goal. Chelsea's Christopher Nkunku (£6.5m) continues to impress, scoring in all three of the Blues' matches under new head coach Enzo Maresca.

Goalkeeper Situation at Chelsea

Robert Sanchez (£4.5m) started between the posts for Chelsea, but was replaced by new signing Filip Jorgensen (£4.5m) at half-time. Fantasy managers will be watching for clarity on Maresca's first-choice stopper before the season begins.

These pre-season lessons and takeaways will help Fantasy managers refine their squads and make informed decisions ahead of the 2024/25 Premier League season.