The 2026/27 Fantasy Premier League season is fast approaching, and it's time to start strategizing your squad selection. While the big names like Erling Haaland, Bruno Fernandes, and Gabriel are undoubtedly worth considering, there are some hidden gems and strategic choices that could give you an edge this season. Let's dive into some of the key considerations and my personal insights on building a competitive squad.
The Big Three: Haaland, Fernandes, and Gabriel
Owning all three of these players will undoubtedly be a significant investment, costing a combined £35.5 million of your £100 million budget. However, their value proposition is undeniable. Haaland, Fernandes, and Gabriel are not just individual talents; they are the backbone of their respective teams and have the potential to deliver consistent returns throughout the season. From Fernandes' creative midfield prowess to Gabriel's solidity at the back, these players are sure to be in demand. Personally, I think this trio is a must-have for any serious Fantasy manager, but it's crucial to balance their cost with other strategic choices.
Double Up on Manchester United's Attack
Manchester United has the best schedule over the opening two Gameweeks, facing promoted Hull City and Ipswich Town back-to-back. While Fernandes is a key player, I believe there's an argument for owning one of Bryan Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha, both priced at £8.0 million. Mbeumo, in particular, has the form and fitness to indicate he could be a better option than Cunha. The Cameroonian played upfront and scored both his side's goals in a 2-1 friendly win over Atletico Madrid. However, it's essential to monitor their line-ups and fitness before making any decisions. This is a strategic move, as it allows you to double up on United's attack and potentially benefit from their favorable fixtures.
Look for Defenders in the £5.0m-5.5m Range
If you're going with Gabriel, shopping in the £5.0 million-5.5 million defender bracket can help balance the budget. An injury to Gabriel's central defensive partner, William Saliba, could help secure a regular role for one of Arsenal's current crop of £5.5 million defenders. Cristhian Mosquera, in particular, has started each of the Gunners' first two summer friendlies at center-back and could be in the driving seat to partner Gabriel. However, it's crucial to keep an eye on the Gunners' remaining pre-season matches, as other defenders like Riccardo Calafiori, Piero Hincapie, and Ben White are also potential options.
Igor Jesus: The Form Budget Forward
Nottingham Forest's Igor Jesus is currently the top form pick in the £6.0 million forward bracket. The Brazilian has immediately made his mark under new head coach Oliver Glasner, scoring four goals in as many pre-season matches. Forest has three kind home fixtures across the first five Gameweeks, hosting two of last season's bottom seven clubs, Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as promoted Coventry City. This makes Jesus a strong contender for the starting XI and a potential source of consistent returns.
Pascal Gross: Penalty Duties Boost Appeal
By delving into the sub-£6.5 million bracket, there are a few budget midfield gems to consider. Brighton & Hove Albion's Pascal Gross, priced at £5.5 million, has improved his Fantasy potential recently. The German took over penalty duties following the transfer of Danny Welbeck to Chelsea, and he scored a penalty and supplied an assist in the Seagulls' recent 4-3 win over Strasbourg. Gross is also the Seagulls' main taker of corners and free-kicks, adding to his Fantasy appeal. With five goals, six assists, 16 DC points, and 16 bonus points in 2025/26 Fantasy, Enzo Le Fee of Sunderland offers many routes to returns, especially with kind early fixtures against Ipswich and Fulham.
Antonin Kinsky: The Standout Budget Goalkeeper
The signing of center-backs Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke could ultimately make Tottenham Hotspur's Antonin Kinsky the standout budget goalkeeper in Fantasy. After Roberto De Zerbi was appointed head coach in Gameweek 32 last season, Spurs conceded a league-low 10 big chances. Kinsky's rival, Guglielmo Vicario, has been linked with a move away, which could allow Martin Dubravka to secure the No 2 role for Spurs, giving you a spend of just £8.5 million on a first-choice goalkeeper and his back-up.
Promoted Players: Ideal for Your Bench
All promoted defenders are priced at £4.0 million for 2026/27 Fantasy, and two center-backs, Hull's John Egan and Coventry's Bobby Thomas, are among the best options to sit on your bench and be called on in emergencies. Egan averaged 10.1 CBIT per 90 minutes in the EFL Championship last season, making him a strong asset for DC points. Thomas's CBIT average of 8.6 per 90 minutes is also expected to improve, while his three goals and four assists underline his superior attacking threat. Regan Slater of Hull is included here as a midfielder at the lowest price point available.
In conclusion, building a competitive Fantasy Premier League squad for 2026/27 requires a mix of big-name players and strategic choices. From the big three to promoted players, there are numerous options to consider. However, it's crucial to balance your budget and monitor player fitness and form before making any decisions. With the right mix of players and a bit of luck, you could be on your way to a successful Fantasy season.
