S3 Ep23: Off The Bench: Small returns from the Double Gameweekers so far
Apr 15, 2025
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Fantasy football managers are scratching their heads this week as big names underperform during a crucial double game week. The discussion probes into Arsenal's shaky defense and how returning players may shift strategies. Kevin De Bruyne shines as a vintage option, while Salah’s performance hints at a farewell. Aston Villa's attacking prowess is analyzed alongside the frustration surrounding Isak’s lackluster show. Managers are recalibrating their tactics, focusing on potential player moves and the unpredictable nature of the game.
Many FPL managers faced disappointment with underperforming players during Double Gameweek 32, highlighting the unpredictability of fantasy football management.
Kevin De Bruyne's standout performance has sparked renewed interest among fantasy managers, making him a potential transfer target amidst other player's struggles.
Arsenal's defensive issues have caused frustration for managers, prompting reevaluation of strategies as they consider shifting investments toward more reliable attackers.
Deep dives
Managing Chips and Teams
The discussion begins with both participants expressing their apprehension heading into a game week where many surrounding them activated chips, such as bench boosts and triple captains. One speaker mentions their experience with a bench boost, achieving a total of 20 points from the players utilized, primarily highlighting players like Marmouche and Bradley performing well. They reflect on the struggles of many other players utilizing the bench boost, especially those relying on Chelsea and Brighton defenders who underperformed, leading to disappointment. The anticipation for the upcoming matches, particularly the double fixture between Newcastle and Crystal Palace, adds to the uncertainty and excitement of managing their fantasy teams.
Tactical Choices and Player Performance
The conversation shifts to tactical decisions made during matches, particularly focusing on the performance of Daniel Munoz and Mateta. Munoz's benching in a previous game frustrated the owner, especially when Mateta was substituted at halftime for tactical reasons that ultimately backfired, leading to disappointment for those invested in him. Players like Eze and Saar are praised for their performance, particularly with Eze continuing to achieve attacking returns, indicating their potential value moving forward. The ongoing discussion emphasizes the unpredictable nature of football and how critical tactical decisions can have significant repercussions in fantasy leagues.
Kevin De Bruyne's Standout Performance
A major talking point becomes Kevin De Bruyne's exceptional performance, where he delivered a goal and an assist, significantly impacting the outcome of the game. His ability to perform at such a high level during a difficult season has increased interest among fantasy managers, considering him as a potential transfer target due to his low ownership. There is a debate about the viability of bringing him into teams versus sticking with other players like Saka, revealing the challenge managers face regarding financial investment and player performance expectations. De Bruyne's recent play bolsters his status as a strong candidate for future game weeks, especially with the potential for more significant returns.
Arsenal's Defensive Struggles
The focus then turns to Arsenal's defensive performance, which has faltered despite early season promises, leading to frustrations for fantasy managers who invested heavily in their defenders. The lack of consistent clean sheets and the impact of injuries have left many reconsidering their strategy for the upcoming weeks, particularly with an imminent double game week. Conversations hint at the thought process behind whether to maintain investments in Arsenal’s defense given their current form or pivot towards stronger attacking options. The emphasis on finding reliability in defense versus searching for promising attackers becomes a central theme in decision-making as the season progresses.
Everton's Unexpected Results
Everton's match against Nottingham Forest catches attention, particularly with the surprising nature of their performance and last-minute goals that affected fantasy outcomes. The clean sheets were particularly important as fantasy managers anxiously awaited how the match would unfold with mixed feelings towards underperforming players. Similarly, players like Jordan Pickford, who earned a clean sheet and bonus points, showcase the ups and downs inherent in fantasy football management. The discussion highlights how inevitable moments of disappointment can pivot the landscape of player choice and strategy, prompting reflections on the importance of making calculated decisions based on fixture outcomes.
Most of the way through Double Gameweek 32 and it’s been a quiet one for many managers using their chips as the big stars from teams with two fixtures struggled to perform 😬👎😬
But FPL experts Sam Bonfield and Az Phillips are here to examine where the points are coming, how chips have been best played, and who to focus on going forward.
LISTEN 👇
* Palace problems (05m 04s)
* Vintage KDB (09m 42s)
* Arsenal defence (14m 20s)
* Aston Villa attack (23m 18s)
* Salah swansong (31m 57s)
* Isak frustration (35m 48s)
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