In the world of Fantasy Premier League (FPL), the Watchlist is a highly anticipated guide, offering insights into the best players to consider for your fantasy team. This season's Watchlist, covering 2026/27, takes an in-depth look at the standout players across various positions, providing an essential resource for FPL managers. Let's dive into the key positions and uncover some fascinating insights and strategies.
Goalkeepers: The Last Line of Defense
David Raya (£6.0m) tops our goalkeeper rankings, and for good reason. He secured the Golden Glove award in 2025/26 with an impressive 19 clean sheets, finishing as FPL's highest-scoring goalkeeper. However, the uncertainty surrounding Arsenal's defense, with injuries to key players, is a cause for concern. Despite this, Raya remains a reliable option, especially with his team boasting the best defense in the league.
When it comes to value, Senne Lammens (£5.0m), Antonin Kinsky (£4.5m), and Bart Verbruggen (£4.5m) lead the way. Lammens, in particular, is an intriguing choice, as he was the second-highest-scoring goalkeeper after Michael Carrick's arrival at Manchester United. With favorable fixtures ahead, he could be a smart pick.
Defenders: Building a Solid Backline
Arsenal defenders are a priority for most FPL managers, even with the injury concerns. Gabriel Magalhaes (£8.0m), with a £2m price hike, is a potential record-breaker, having averaged an impressive 8.2 points per start last season. However, with Saliba's injury, Cristhian Mosquera (£5.5m) could be a cheaper alternative, and his performance in the Community Shield match will be crucial.
Virgil van Dijk (£6.5m) of Liverpool is another top defender, with great fixtures ahead and a solid defensive record. Harry Maguire (£5.0m) of Manchester United could also be a set-piece threat, especially with Casemiro's departure. Josko Gvardiol (£5.5m) and James Tarkowski (£6.0m) are also among the top defenders for projected points.
Midfielders: The Creative Hub
Bruno Fernandes (£12.0m) is the penalty-taking midfielder most FPL managers will be eyeing. His impressive record as a No. 10 under Carrick makes him a top choice. Manchester United's upcoming fixtures against newly-promoted sides could also make their midfielders an attractive double-up option.
Bryan Mbeumo (£8.0m) is another standout midfielder, leading in expected goals (xG) last season. Antoine Semenyo (£8.5m) is an exciting prospect under Enzo Maresca, with freedom to attack and isolate defenders. Cole Palmer (£9.5m) of Chelsea, as their penalty taker, is also worth considering, especially with favorable fixtures ahead.
Forwards: The Goal-Scoring Machine
The forward list is an exciting mix, with Erling Haaland (£15.5m), Joao Pedro (£7.5m), and Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£6.0m) forming the template front three. Alexander Isak (£9.0m) is a great medium-term pick, especially with his sharp pre-season form. Igor Thiago (£8.0m), the surprise hit of 2025/26, is another intriguing option, having scored 13 goals, even without penalties.
Three budget-friendly forwards, Brian Brobbey (£6.0m), Igor Jesus (£6.0m), and Oli McBurnie (£5.5m), round off the list, with McBurnie offering excellent value in the first six Gameweeks.
Deeper Analysis
The Watchlist provides an excellent starting point for FPL managers, but it's essential to consider the broader context. The impact of injuries, managerial changes, and team tactics can significantly influence a player's performance. Additionally, the psychological aspect of FPL, such as a player's confidence and motivation, can often be overlooked but can have a huge impact on their output.
Conclusion
The Watchlist is a fantastic resource, offering a comprehensive overview of the best FPL players. However, it's crucial to remember that fantasy football is a dynamic game, and strategies must adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the Premier League. As an FPL manager, staying informed, analyzing trends, and making bold decisions can be the difference between success and disappointment. So, keep an eye on the Watchlist, but always trust your instincts and strategic thinking.
