As we gear up for the 2024/25 Premier League season, the Fantasy Premier League (FPL) deadline is creeping ever closer, now is the time to build a balanced squad that gives you both firepower and flexibility. Here are some of the top picks to consider for your FPL team, based on expert insight, value, and upside.

Premium Picks — Your Team Anchors

Erling Haaland (Man City, Forward)
Haaland has once again been handed the biggest price tag in FPL history, but for good reason: his goal threat is enormous. He remains the central striker for a title-challenging Manchester City side, and his potential for explosive hauls (especially with early favourable fixtures) makes him a serious captaincy option.

Alexander Isak (Newcastle, Forward)
If you want premium returns but can’t or don’t want to splurge on Haaland, Isak is one of the most widely backed alternatives. He’s clinical inside the box and is central to Newcastle’s attacking plans, making him a serious FPL focal point.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool, Midfielder)
Salah continues to justify his big-money tag. Even after a slightly lower-scoring season, he still recorded more shots in the box and more big chances than almost any other midfielder. He’s a consistent source of goals, assists, and big-match returns, plus, he’s a reliable captaincy pick.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea, Midfielder)
Palmer has really emerged as a creative dynamo. Last season he notched over 20 goals and more than a dozen assists. Despite that, his FPL price is still a little lower than Salah’s, making him a strong “premium but not ultra-premium” midfield play. His influence for Chelsea looks set to continue if he sustains his output.

Defence — Blending Stability & Attack

Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City, Defender)
Gvardiol is becoming a go-to for FPL managers. He offers real attacking returns, goals and assists, and he’s also capable of clean sheets playing for City. His value last season, especially in the latter stages, suggests he can be a top-tier pick again.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool, Defender)
TAA remains one of the most expensive defenders, but his attacking upside is huge. He contributes with set pieces, crosses, and assists, which can make him a big points earner even when defensive returns are limited.

Budget Defensive Options
Many top managers are using a couple of budget defenders (in the £4.5–£5.0m range) to free up funds elsewhere. These cheap starters or bench options let you spend big in attack or midfield without leaving your backline too weak.

Midfield – Creativity + Goal Threat

Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)
Eze is a favourite among FPL experts as a creative hub for Palace. With his dribbling, vision, and goal threat, he is expected to be heavily involved in Palace’s attacking play. He’s a mid-tier pick who could punch above his weight.

Anthony Gordon (Newcastle)
Gordon offers a different flavour: pace, directness, and goal-scoring potential. He’s another mid-tier midfielder who could give great value, especially if paired with Isak to double up on Newcastle’s attack.

Goalkeepers — Reliable Options Without Breaking the Bank

David Raya (Arsenal)
Raya is one of the most popular “first-choice” keepers for 2024/25. He’s mid-priced but backed by a defence that could be competitive enough to get clean sheets. He’s a solid pick to anchor your squad’s goalkeeping.

Budget Backup
Consider a cheaper second keeper as your bench option. That way, you can invest more in outfield players. Many experienced FPL managers use this strategy: one reliable starter, plus a budget backup.

Differential Picks — Stand Out From the Crowd

Rodrigo Muniz (Fulham, Forward)
Muniz is being flagged by some expert managers as a differential option. If he starts and Fulham’s attack clicks, his price gives you a chance to get strong forward returns without spending top-tier cash.

Lewis Hall (Newcastle, Defender)
A more under-the-radar defensive differential. If Hall starts regularly, he could combine clean sheet potential with occasional attacking returns, making him a powerful pick outside the template.

Suggested Squad Structure

Here’s a balanced structure that many FPL managers are likely to adopt:

• Forwards: Haaland + Isak (or Haaland + a cheaper option)
• Midfield: Salah + Palmer + one or two mid-tier mids (e.g., Eze, Gordon)
• Defense: One or two premium defenders (Gvardiol / TAA) + budget defenders
• Goalkeeper: One solid starter + a budget backup

This kind of mix gives you firepower up front, creativity in midfield, and enough defensive cover to rotate without sacrificing clean sheet potential.

Final Thoughts & Strategy Tips

1. Balance is key — Don’t put all your budget into Haaland if it means your midfield dries up.
2. Use budget defenders and a cheap keeper to free up money for your attacking core.
3. Consider differentials — A smart differential forward or defender could pay off massively if they deliver.
4. Monitor early fixtures — Strong early games can help you build momentum and confidence in your picks.