The Premier League is back, and with it comes the annual headache of managing your Fantasy Premier League (FPL) team. Game Week 1 kicked off on August 17, 2024, and it didn’t take long for the early decision-makers to either celebrate or question their choices.
This season, one of the biggest dilemmas FPL managers faced was the trade-off between Liverpool’s talisman, Mo Salah, and Manchester City’s goal machine, Erling Haaland. Both are priced as premium players, and squeezing both into your squad leaves very little room for a balanced team. So, the question was: Salah, Haaland, or the risky move of picking both?
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Salah Delivers for His Captainers
On the opening day, Liverpool were in action, and all eyes were on Salah. For those who captained him, it was a nervous wait, but he didn't disappoint. Salah rewarded his believers with a goal and an assist, racking up a solid points haul. Those who doubled down on Liverpool by including Diogo Jota in their team had an even better start to the season, as Jota also made an impact. This opening performance from Salah reaffirmed why he remains a key asset in FPL, even with his high price tag.
Newcastle: Mixed Returns
Meanwhile, for those who opted for Newcastle assets, it was a mixed bag. Alexander Isak managed an assist, but it wasn’t quite the explosive start many had hoped for. The disappointment was even greater for those who gambled on defenders like Kieran Trippier. Newcastle’s promising preseason form didn't translate into major FPL returns just yet, but it’s early days.
Liverpool Defense: Disappointment
Another letdown came from Liverpool’s left-back, Robertson who could not give returns. Even though Arnold kept a cleansheet, but he could not manage an assist. I would be taking him out before the next gameweek in favour of more budget options.
Arsenal: Saka Shines, Havertz Surprises
Over in North London, Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka was another player who rewarded his owners with a goal and an assist. Saka’s growing stature in the Arsenal team makes him a popular pick, and Game Week 1 proved that he’s going to be a reliable option throughout the season.
However, the real surprise package for Arsenal was Kai Havertz. Those brave enough to pick him were handsomely rewarded as the former Chelsea man found the net and chipped in with an assist. His low ownership percentage meant that those who took a chance on him could be smiling with a nice differential boost.
Looking Ahead: Second day of Game Week 1 – Haaland vs. Nkunku
As we move into Game Week 1's second day, the focus shifts to the highly anticipated clash between Chelsea and Manchester City. Haaland will be in action, and FPL managers who chose him over Salah will be banking on him to justify that hefty price tag. Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess is no secret, and the clash against Chelsea is set to be a defining moment early in the season.
On the other hand, Christopher Nkunku has emerged as a popular budget option for Chelsea. He’s been labeled a goal threat and, given his low price, has become an enticing pick for those looking to save funds elsewhere in their squad. The showdown between Haaland and Nkunku could be crucial for FPL managers navigating this tough decision.
Final Thoughts
The first day of Game Week 1 offered us a glimpse of what to expect this season in FPL. The Salah vs. Haaland debate has only just begun, and managers are already weighing the pros and cons of their choices. Whether you opted for a strong bench or went all-in on your starting eleven, this season promises to be as thrilling as ever.
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