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Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Season 2024/25 – Gameweek 1

Arsenal has started their campaign with a bang, securing a confident 2-0 victory over Wolves in Gameweek 1. Coming off the back of a season where they pushed Manchester City to the final day, all eyes were on Mikel Arteta’s side to see if they could maintain their momentum.

With an almost unchanged lineup from last season, the Gunners showcased their dominance right from the start. As we break down the match and its FPL implications, it’s clear that Arsenal assets are once again set to be crucial picks for managers this season.

Match Review

Arsenal’s Commanding Performance

Arsenal kicked off their season with a display that reminded everyone why they were title contenders last year. From the first whistle, they dominated Wolves.

The Gunners racked up 18 shots, constantly threatening to break through. However, finishing was a problem for much of the game. Fans inside the Emirates were left frustrated as chance after chance went begging.

Bukayo Saka was the standout performer. Everyone felt his influence all over the pitch. Not only did he assist the opening goal, but he also sealed the win with a beautiful curling shot late in the game. Saka’s performance set the tone for what could be another stellar season for the young winger.

Kai Havertzhad a mixed outing. Early in the game, he was dispossessed easily and later missed a clear opportunity. Yet, his determination paid off. Havertz bravely met Saka’s cross, heading the ball into the net to put Arsenal ahead. His goal justified Arteta’s faith in him, showing glimpses of why the manager believes he can be a key player.

Wolves’ Struggles and Resilience

Wolves came into this match with a cautious approach. They were clearly focused on defense, trying to absorb Arsenal’s pressure. But the lack of attacking threat was evident.

Wolves only managed a few decent chances throughout the match. Their best opportunity came from a header by Jørgen Strand Larsen, but Arsenal’s goalkeeper, David Raya, made a fantastic save.

Despite being on the back foot for most of the game, Wolves showed some resilience. As the match progressed, they grew into the game, but it was too little, too late.

Arsenal’s defense held firm, and Wolves couldn’t find a way through. Their manager, Gary O’Neil, will have plenty to think about after this defeat, particularly in the attacking department.

Key Moments

The match had several key moments that shaped the outcome. Havertz’s goal was a turning point, breaking the deadlock after a frustrating first half for Arsenal.

Saka’s late goal was the icing on the cake, relieving any lingering nerves in the stadium. On the other side, David Raya’s crucial save kept Wolves at bay, ensuring Arsenal’s clean sheet.

Arsenal’s performance was a statement. They showed they are still a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Wolves will need to regroup quickly if they are to avoid a repeat of last season’s struggles.

FPL Implications

Arsenal Assets

Arsenal’s performance in this match has strong implications for FPL managers. Let’s start with Bukayo Saka. He was involved in both goals, showing exactly why he’s a must-have in FPL this season. Saka’s ability to both score and assist, on top of penalty duties, makes him a valuable asset. If you don’t have him in your team yet, it might be time to reconsider.

Then there’s Kai Havertz. His performance might have been a bit mixed, but he still got on the scoresheet. Priced lower than some of Arsenal’s other attacking options, Havertz could be a bargain if he continues to start and score. His versatility also means he might pick up points in different ways, whether through goals or assists. Keep an eye on his form in the coming weeks.

Finally, let’s talk about Arsenal’s defense. They kept a clean sheet, which is always a bonus in FPL. With David Raya looking solid in goal, Arsenal defenders like Saliba, Gabriel, and Ben White become even more appealing despite their tough fixtures in the short-term. If you’re looking to shore up your defense, investing in Arsenal’s backline could pay off.

Wolves Players

Now, what about Wolves? It’s clear they struggled in this match, but there are still a few players worth watching. Jørgen Strand Larsen, for instance, nearly scored with a header. If he continues to get minutes, he might be a good differential pick. However, Wolves’ overall performance raises questions about their FPL potential.

As for other Wolves assets, I advise caution. The team looks like they might struggle in the coming weeks, especially against stronger opposition. It might be best to wait and see how they perform in the next few matches before investing in any of their players.

Conclusion

Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Wolves in Gameweek 1 was a strong statement. They controlled the match, created plenty of chances, and secured a clean sheet. For FPL managers, this performance reaffirms the value of key Arsenal assets like Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz. Arsenal’s defense also showed its strength, making their defenders solid picks for your FPL team.

On the other hand, Wolves struggled to make an impact. While there are a few players to keep an eye on, it might be wise to wait and see how they perform in the next few games before making any FPL investments.

If you want to stay ahead of the game, make sure to Download the We Play FPL app. It’s packed with tools to help you plan your transfers, compare players, and predict points for informed decision-making.

May your arrows be green, and your captaincy choices be spot on. Until next time, happy managing!