Fantasy Premier League: Building the Ultimate Squad for 2026/27
As the new season approaches, fantasy football managers are gearing up for the challenge of assembling a winning squad. The Scout's selection of must-haves for the 2026/27 campaign is a tantalizing prospect, but it comes with a hefty price tag.
The Big Three: Haaland, Fernandes, and Gabriel
Erling Haaland, Bruno Fernandes, and Gabriel—the 'Big Three'—are undoubtedly the stars of any fantasy team. However, their combined cost of £35.5 million is a significant chunk of your budget. This is where the art of squad building comes into play.
What many don't realize is that while these players are essential, they can also be a trap. Their high price means you'll need to be savvy elsewhere. Personally, I believe the key is to find value in unexpected places, especially in defenders and budget forwards.
Defensive Strategies
The £4.0 million price tag on promoted defenders is a godsend for managers. It allows you to invest in the 'Big Three' while still having funds for other positions. For instance, Arsenal's Gabriel at £8.0 million is a solid choice, and you can balance this by picking a £5.0-5.5 million defender like Harry Maguire, who offers both clean sheet potential and set-piece threat.
A detail I find intriguing is the potential emergence of a £5.5 million Arsenal defender, like Cristhian Mosquera, who could be a steal if William Saliba's injury keeps him out for an extended period. This is a classic example of how injuries can create opportunities in fantasy football.
Midfield Conundrum
In midfield, Bruno Fernandes is a popular choice, but the debate about his teammates is fascinating. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, both priced at £8.0 million, offer a compelling argument for inclusion, especially with Manchester United's favorable fixtures. Mbeumo's recent form and fitness make him a tempting option, allowing for easy transfers if needed.
One thing that immediately stands out is the pricing strategy for midfielders. With only a few priced above Fernandes, it suggests a more balanced approach to squad building, encouraging managers to spread their investments.
Budget Forwards and Midfielders
The budget forward category is where you can find hidden gems. Igor Jesus of Nottingham Forest has been in scintillating form, scoring four goals in as many pre-season matches. With their kind fixtures, he could be a great value pick at £6.0 million.
In the sub-£6.5 million bracket, Pascal Gross of Brighton & Hove Albion stands out. His new penalty duties, coupled with set-piece responsibilities, make him a potential points magnet. This is a classic example of how a player's role can significantly impact their fantasy value.
Goalkeeper Considerations
For goalkeepers, Antonin Kinsky of Tottenham Hotspur is an intriguing choice. Spurs' defensive record under Roberto De Zerbi is impressive, and Kinsky could be a bargain at £4.5 million. The potential departure of Vicario further strengthens his appeal.
Bench Strategy
When it comes to the bench, promoted players are a smart choice. Defenders like Hull's John Egan and Coventry's Bobby Thomas offer excellent value and the potential for regular defensive contribution points.
In my opinion, the bench is where you can really optimize your squad. By selecting players with the right attributes and fixtures, you can ensure your team is always competitive.
As we approach the new season, the fantasy football landscape is filled with exciting possibilities. The Scout's selections provide a solid foundation, but it's the art of squad optimization that will separate the top managers. Remember, it's not just about picking the best players; it's about crafting a cohesive unit that can adapt and deliver throughout the season.
