Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers face a challenging decision in Gameweek 25, with various players presenting transfer opportunities. Here's a detailed analysis of three key players: Bowen, Thiago, and Saka, and the decision to buy, keep, or sell them.
Jarrod Bowen
Jarrod Bowen (£7.6m) is a standout performer in FPL, with 36 points over the last six Gameweeks, the second-most among forwards. His 11 attacking returns, including three goals and one assist, are impressive, especially considering West Ham United's position in the table. Bowen's recent strike, while fortunate, showcases his ability to contribute points. With upcoming fixtures against Burnley, Manchester United, and Bournemouth, Bowen is a strong consideration for Gameweek 25.
His strengths include regular full-game participation, penalty-taking, prominent role in set-pieces, and a low ownership rate of 8.9%. However, his shot count (13 in the last six Gameweeks) is lower than some other forwards. Additionally, his position on the pitch can vary, especially when Nuno Espirito Santo employs a more conventional centre-forward, like Taty Castellanos (£5.5m).
Despite these considerations, Bowen's overall performance and potential for points make him a solid differential option. The combination of goals, assists, and defensive contributions further enhances his appeal.
Verdict: BUY
Marcos Senesi
Bournemouth's resilience in rejecting interest in Marcos Senesi (£4.8m) last month presents an opportunity for Fantasy managers. Senesi's team, led by Andoni Iraola, ranks top in our Fixture Ticker over the next six Gameweeks, providing a strong foundation for his performance. Senesi's defensive prowess is evident, with DefCon points in 19 out of 23 starts and an 82.6% success rate, the highest among Fantasy players. His creativity as a centre-back, ranking joint-12th in chances created, adds to his appeal.
While Bournemouth's defensive record has been mixed, with just two clean sheets in the last 15 matches, they have shown strength at home, conceding fewer big chances than any other team. The upcoming fixtures against Aston Villa, Sunderland, and Brentford further enhance Senesi's potential.
However, it's worth noting his seven bookings, which could lead to a two-match ban if he reaches 10 yellow cards before his club plays 32 matches. Despite this, Senesi remains a cost-effective defender with significant potential over the next few weeks.
Verdict: BUY
Igor Thiago
Igor Thiago (£7.1m) has been a Fantasy success story, with 16 goals and an average of 5.4 points per match. His 52 shots in the box and 28 Opta-defined 'big chances' further solidify his position. However, a recent slump in form, with no goals or assists in three consecutive matches, raises concerns. In Gameweek 24, he failed to register a shot, focusing on defensive duties.
Thiago's team, Brentford, faces challenging fixtures, but a favourable run of matches begins in Gameweek 27, making him an attractive 'buy' at that point. Current owners are advised to retain him, as transfers are crucial at this stage of the season.
Verdict: KEEP, BUY IN GAMEWEEK 27
Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka (£10.0m) has struggled in recent Gameweeks, with just six points over the last four. His absence from the pitch in Gameweek 24 due to an injury during the warm-up adds to the concern. While the injury is not severe, it's expected to keep him out for a few matches. Saka's return timeline is uncertain, potentially missing Arsenal's Double Gameweek 26.
Mikel Arteta's cautious approach to Saka's playing time, as seen in recent benchings, further complicates his situation. With limited points, Saka may be considered an easy 'sell'. Potential replacements include Declan Rice (£7.5m) or Noni Madueke (£6.8m), both of whom could provide similar or improved returns.
Verdict: SELL
Micky van de Ven
Micky van de Ven (£4.5m) has been sidelined due to injury in Tottenham Hotspur's last two matches. However, he's expected to return for the trip to Manchester United in Gameweek 25. Despite this, Spurs' inconsistency in clean sheets and challenging fixtures make van de Ven a potential 'sell'.
In the last nine league matches, they have kept just two shut-outs away at Crystal Palace and Brentford, ranking 16th for actual goals conceded and 11th for expected goals conceded. With an injury crisis and tricky fixtures, van de Ven's value may be limited, especially compared to other defenders at similar price points.
Verdict: SELL
