The Premier League is back. Fantasy football is back. And the GW1 deadline? 18:30 BST on Friday, August 15 – just before Liverpool vs Bournemouth kicks off at Anfield. Don’t get caught out!
New FPL Rules You Can Actively Use Tonight
This season, you now have two of each FPL chip – Bench Boost, Triple Captain, and Free Hit – one in each half of the season, while Wildcards remain at two as usual.
Technically, you could use a chip like Bench Boost or Triple Captain as early as tonight if you’ve built a full 15-man bench specifically for it.
That said, don’t blow a chip in GW1. The second set is really meant to give you more control over Double and Blank Gameweeks later.
On the points side, defensive contributions and simplified assists slightly lift the ceiling for attack-minded full-backs and set-piece takers. It’s marginal, but enough to make a difference in tight match-ups in your fantasy football season.
Hard News You Must Act on (Injuries & Bans)
Justin Kluivert has been ruled out for GW1 with a calf injury sustained during pre-season. As Bournemouth travel to Anfield, he’s unavailable, so don’t bank on their attacking returns from him.
Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is suspended for the opener due to a red card late last season. If you were leaning on new arrivals or rotation riskers, Gravenberch isn’t an option for the first Gameweek.
Alexander Isak’s future is murky. The Swede isn’t training with Newcastle as he pushes for a move, likely to Liverpool. Don’t buy him – yet.
Brentford’s Yoane Wissa’s mid-window speculation surrounding his future has unsettled both him and the squad. With Newcastle and others circling, picking him early could leave FPL managers scrambling if a transfer materialises.
Transfer Reality That Changes FPL Picks
Liverpool have bolstered their attacking depth with the additions of Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike. With Bournemouth visiting Anfield tonight, these signings strengthen the case for owning a Liverpool attacker and, potentially, the captain’s armband.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have signed Viktor Gyokeres as a genuine first-team striker. He’s already featured in pre-season and looks like a proper long-term FPL target, but with their opener at Manchester United, it’s a tough fixture to bank on immediately. Still, he could be worth the risk if you’re chasing upside.
Manchester City have added Tijjani Reijnders to their midfield, which introduces a bit more rotation risk. That doesn’t change Erling Haaland’s status as a must-own and captain option, but it may be wise to hold off on a second or third City midfielder if you want to squeeze every minute from those slots in your first fantasy football squad.
Chelsea’s forward picture has also been reshaped with summer signings like Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, leaving the pecking order a little unclear. Both impressed in the Club World Cup and pre-season, so they could be worth the gamble, but Cole Palmer remains the safest Chelsea route for guaranteed minutes and set-piece involvement.
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GW1 Fixtures: Who To Target and Who To Avoid
Target Anfield. Liverpool vs Bournemouth is tailor-made for a captaincy play. Liverpool have secured 13 wins in their last 16 encounters with Bournemouth and have consistently scored at least two goals in their last four matchups.
Given this strong record, investing in Liverpool attackers is a prudent choice. Mohamed Salah in particular has an elite track record on opening weekends and remains the safest armband – even with new faces around him.
Aston Villa vs Newcastle is a fixture that is poised to be a significant early-season clash, with both teams finishing the previous season on equal points. Aston Villa’s squad consistency and key players’ retention, especially Ollie Watkins, gives them an edge.
Manchester City are favourites against Wolves, with a strong squad and home advantage. While Wolves have shown resilience and managed to avoid relegation, City’s attacking prowess makes them the team to back for this fixture.
Manchester United vs Arsenal. A classic Premier League rivalry, this game is expected to be closely contested. Both teams have bolstered their squads, and while Arsenal’s new signings show promise, the away fixture at Old Trafford presents a challenging start.
Chelsea’s revamped squad will be eager to make a strong statement at home when they host Crystal Palace. With new signings integrating into the team, this match offers potential for attacking returns, especially for those monitoring the evolving forward options.
Making Your Last-Minute Fantasy Football Moves
As the Gameweek 1 deadline approaches, it’s crucial to finalise your fantasy football squad with a balanced approach.
Prioritise players with favourable fixtures and proven consistency, while being mindful of potential rotation risks and late injury or transfer risks.
Remember, the Premier League season is long, and a strong start can set the tone for the weeks ahead. Best of luck with your selections!
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Pressinphoto
Recording Date: 04.08.2025