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

The Premier League returned with a bang as Chelsea faced Manchester City in what was undoubtedly the most anticipated clash of Gameweek 1.

With Chelsea under new management and City beginning their title defense, all eyes were on Stamford Bridge. The result? A clear statement of intent from Pep Guardiola’s side as they brushed Chelsea aside with a 2-0 victory.

For Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, this match not only provided a glimpse into the form of key players but also raised important questions about where to place their trust in the weeks to come.

Match Review

The Tactical Battle

When Pep Guardiola and his former assistant Enzo Maresca met at Stamford Bridge, it was a classic case of master versus apprentice. Unfortunately for Chelsea, the result was all too predictable. Manchester City showcased why they are the defending champions, dominating the game from start to finish.

Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 18th minute, thanks to an assist from Bernardo Silva. City’s control of the match was evident, with Chelsea struggling to keep up with the pace and precision of their opponents.

Chelsea’s new manager, Maresca, is trying to bring a more methodical approach to the team. However, it’s clear that this is still a work in progress. The home fans grew restless as their team failed to make meaningful progress.

City, on the other hand, looked like a well-oiled machine, pressing high and exploiting the gaps in Chelsea’s defense. Mateo Kovacic sealed the win with a goal that highlighted the difference in quality between the two sides.

Chelsea’s Struggles

For Chelsea, this match highlighted the challenges of transitioning under a new manager. The team’s buildup play was slow and predictable, making it easy for City to disrupt their rhythm.

Raheem Sterling’s absence from the squad raised eyebrows, especially with Chelsea lacking creativity in the final third. There were flashes of potential, like Christopher Nkunku’s dribbles and Nicolas Jackson’s disallowed goal, but Chelsea never really threatened City’s defense.

Maresca’s decision-making will likely be questioned in the coming weeks. The exclusion of experienced players and the reliance on young talents may be too risky, especially in high-stakes games like this one.

Chelsea’s defensive organization also needs improvement, as City’s second goal showed. Kovacic breezed past Moisés Caicedo and Roméo Lavia too easily, leaving Robert Sánchez exposed in goal.

Manchester City’s Dominance

Manchester City’s performance was a masterclass in control and efficiency. Even without key players like Rodri, they managed to dominate possession and create numerous chances.

Bernardo Silva was instrumental, not only assisting Haaland’s opener but also dictating play throughout the match. Kevin De Bruyne, as always, was a class apart, nearly adding a third goal with a powerful shot that just missed the target.

City’s defense also deserves praise. Despite Chelsea’s attempts to push forward, Rúben Dias, Manuel Akanji, and Josko Gvardiol held firm. The defensive unit, combined with Ederson’s reliable goalkeeping, ensured that City never looked like they were in danger.

Bringing on Phil Foden in the second half, whether it was a tactical switch or a sub due to Savio’s Injury, kept the pressure on Chelsea and prevented them from gaining any real momentum.

FPL Implications

Erling Haaland – A Must-Own?

Erling Haaland has once again proven why he’s the highest priced player in FPL. He started the season by scoring City’s first goal in typical Haaland fashion. This makes it three seasons in a row where he has scored his team’s opening goal of the campaign. His consistency is unmatched, making him a top captaincy choice in most gameweeks.

Haaland’s ability to deliver in big games makes him a reliable option week in, week out. Whether at home or away, he finds the back of the net with remarkable ease. With favorable fixtures coming his way, starting with Ipswich at home in gameweek 2, his threat is only doubled.

However, fitting Haaland into your team isn’t easy this season. At a hefty price of £15 million, you’ll have to make sacrifices elsewhere in your squad. Whether these sacrifices are worth it is a debate for another day. But if you can find a way to balance your team with Haaland in it, his potential for points might just make all the difference.

Bernardo Silva – The Underrated Asset

While Haaland grabs the headlines, Bernardo Silva quietly goes about his business. He was instrumental in City’s win, providing the assist for Haaland’s goal and keeping Chelsea’s defense on their toes. Silva has now assisted 6 goals in his last 7 Premier League games, which is impressive, to say the least.

Bernardo Silva is an excellent differential pick for FPL managers. With his 6.5m price and low ownership, Silva should be on your radar. He’s not just about assists; his involvement in City’s attacking play means goals could be on the cards as well.

Cole Palmer – Patience Required

Palmer struggled to make an impact against his former club, looking off the pace and lacking sharpness. This isn’t entirely surprising, given his limited pre-season action after his exertions with England.

For now, patience is key. If you have Palmer in your squad, don’t rush selling him, and if you don’t, then wait and see. It might take a few weeks before we see the best of him.

Chelsea’s Uncertainty

Chelsea’s performance raised more questions than answers, especially for FPL managers. The team is still in transition, and it’s hard to know which players to trust. Christopher Nkunku showed flashes of brilliance but didn’t make it past the 60th minute, and with Chelsea struggling to find their rhythm, investing in their assets feels risky.

Until Chelsea finds some consistency, it might be wise to wait and see how they perform in the next few games.

Conclusion

Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over Chelsea was a clear demonstration of their dominance in the Premier League. For FPL managers, the match provided valuable insights. Erling Haaland reaffirmed his status, while Bernardo Silva emerged as an underrated asset worth considering.

On the other hand, Chelsea’s struggles under new management suggest caution when investing in their players. The team’s unsettled lineup and lack of consistency make their assets risky picks at this stage.

As you prepare for the next gameweek, ensure your squad is filled with reliable performers. And if you’re unsure about which transfers to make, Download the We Play FPL app. It offers transfer planning, player comparisons, and points predictions to help you make informed decisions and optimize your team.

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