The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season is upon us, and it's time to make those crucial decisions to build a winning team. With the 2026-27 season in full swing, here's a breakdown of eight players who could be game-changers, offering both value and potential for success. From mid-priced differentials to budget-friendly picks, these players are worth considering for your FPL squad.
Florian Wirtz, Midfield Maestro
At £7.5m, Florian Wirtz is a mid-priced differential with around 14% ownership. The German midfielder has the potential to deliver, especially under new manager Andoni Iraola. Pre-season has seen Wirtz deployed as a number 10, operating close to striker Alexander Isak. This central role should increase his touches in the final third and goal involvement. With a manager determined to get the best out of both players, Wirtz's outlook is promising. At this price, he offers a cleaner route into Liverpool's attack compared to more popular midfield options.
Pascal Gross, Budget Midfield Mastery
Pascal Gross, a £5.5m midfielder, is a compelling budget option, currently owned by fewer than 11% of teams. His role and importance have improved significantly this summer. With Danny Welbeck now at Chelsea, Gross will take over penalty duties, having converted a spot-kick in pre-season. His involvement in corners and set-pieces adds multiple routes to returns. Brighton, under Fabian Hurzeler, continues to generate chances, and Gross remains central to their attack. He offers a reliable floor and occasional ceiling, making him a practical enabler for managers building around expensive premiums.
Antonin Kinsky, Budget Goalkeeper
Antonin Kinsky, a £4.5m goalkeeper, is one of the standout budget options. The Czech goalkeeper finished last season strongly, starting every game under Roberto de Zerbi and producing several excellent performances. With Guglielmo Vicario still at the club, there's some uncertainty, but Kinsky is De Zerbi's first choice. His strong finish last season and the manager's trust make him an excellent option at a low price, offering clean sheet potential, save points, and a reliable floor.
Dominik Szoboszlai, Versatile Midfield Ace
Dominik Szoboszlai, at £7m, is an intriguing option after an excellent individual campaign. He finished as Liverpool's second highest-scoring FPL player with 160 points. With an appealing opening five gameweeks, including matches against Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, Ipswich, Fulham, and Bournemouth, Szoboszlai has multiple routes to points. His versatility, scoring ability, and assist potential from set-pieces make him a valuable asset. While there are question marks over his role under new manager Iraola, his versatility could work in his favour, ensuring reasonable minutes.
Joao Pedro, Chelsea's Goal Machine
Joao Pedro, a £7.5m striker, is a key pick for fantasy forward lines. The Brazilian had an impressive debut season for Chelsea, racking up 15 goals and nine assists. With 63 shots in the box and 26 big chances on goal, he finished as the fourth highest-scoring forward. Having had the summer off, he's well-placed to replicate this output under new boss Xabi Alonso. With no European football to contend with, Pedro is a clear focal point in the Chelsea attack, offering value and potential.
Neco Williams, Defensive Advantage
Neco Williams, a £5m defender, is an intriguing defensive selection. The Wales right-back could benefit from a potential change in formation, with new manager Oliver Glasner expected to bring defensive solidarity to Nottingham Forest. Williams ranked third for fantasy points among Forest players last season, with five goal involvements and the most shots among defenders. His potential to play more advanced and the team's defensive focus make him a valuable pick.
Riccardo Calafiori, Left-Back Value
Riccardo Calafiori, a £5.5m defender, is a cheap route to the elite Arsenal defence. The Italian is a first-choice left-back for most of last season and feels secure in the XI if he stays fit. Early substitutions are likely but rarely come pre-60 minutes. With a full pre-season under his belt, Calafiori is expected to deliver immediate rewards from an attacking-minded full-back. His value and potential make him a solid long-term hold.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Leeds' Goal-Scoring Machine
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, a £6m striker, is the third most-owned forward. Leeds impressed last season but under-achieved on expected values. Calvert-Lewin's finishing was responsible for some of that under-performance, with 14 goals from 15.57 expected goals and 33 big chances. Nevertheless, he gets the chances and is a handful for any back line. His penalty duties, low substitution rate, good fixtures, and arguably under-priced status make him a valuable pick for managers.
