As the Fantasy Premier League season nears its decisive stage, every round holds the potential to make or break your position. Experienced managers have been saving their chips for this period, as the upcoming double gameweeks provide an opportunity to maximize points. At this critical juncture, differentials – lesser-known players who can deliver unexpected points – are key. Smartly selecting these players could help you surge ahead in your mini-leagues and finish the season on a high note. Here’s a look at some strikers who could play a pivotal role in your quest for the top spot:
Jean-Philippe Mateta (CRY) – £7.5m, TSB: 5.5%
Crystal Palace’s Next Fixtures: sou, BHA, mci, new, BOU
Crystal Palace may not be in serious contention for European spots, but they often rise to the occasion towards the end of the season. With the Eagles still in the FA Cup – they face Fulham in the quarter-finals this Saturday – Mateta could play an important role in their push. If Palace wins, they’ll have a double gameweek in GW33, making their assets more valuable for fantasy managers.
Mateta has been in excellent form, scoring 6 goals and providing 1 assist in his last six gameweeks. Despite a recent injury, he’s hinted at being ready to return, and as the designated penalty taker, he could provide significant points. If he returns to the field with a potential double gameweek, Mateta becomes a powerful differential and an affordable striker option for the remainder of the season.
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Omar Marmoush (MCI) – £7.3m, TSB: 13.3%
Manchester City’s Next Fixtures: LEI, mun, CRY, AVL, eve
Manchester City’s final stretch of the season is crucial as they fight for a Champions League spot. While Erling Haaland has been a fantasy staple, his recent dip in form has made Marmoush an interesting alternative. The Egyptian forward has added fresh energy to City’s attack and has been more involved in creating scoring chances compared to Haaland. His shots on goal and activity in the box make him a standout choice for managers looking for a differential.
With a potential double gameweek for City in GW33, Marmoush’s appeal grows even further, especially if you already have Haaland in your squad.
Evanilson (BOU) – £5.7m, TSB: 3.3%
Bournemouth’s Next Fixtures: IPS, whu, FUL, cry, MUN
Bournemouth has made an unexpected push for European spots, and their attacking style has made their assets worth considering for fantasy. Before injury, Evanilson had been in good form, and despite Dango Ouattara’s strong performances in his absence, Evanilson has returned to the starting lineup and quickly justified his place, scoring against Tottenham.
Bournemouth’s solid attacking play and Evanilson’s good chemistry with teammates make him an interesting and budget-friendly option. With the upcoming fixtures and the potential for a strong finish, he could be a valuable asset for those seeking an underrated striker in the final stretch.
João Pedro (BHA) – £5.6m, TSB: 15.0%
Brighton’s Next Fixtures: AVL, cry, LEI, bre, WHU
Brighton has been in fantastic form, winning 4 consecutive matches and holding Manchester City to a draw. This momentum makes their assets attractive for fantasy managers. João Pedro, who plays a key role in their attack, is an affordable and reliable option. He’s also the designated penalty taker, which further boosts his potential.
In the last 5 gameweeks, Pedro has scored 3 goals and provided 1 assist, making him one of the most productive forwards in his price range. If Brighton progresses past Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup, they will have a double gameweek in GW33, making Pedro almost a must-have for managers looking to strengthen their attack.
Raul Jimenez (FUL) – £5.5m, TSB: 7.4%
Fulham’s Next Fixtures: ars, LIV, bou, CHE, sou
Fulham remains in the race for European spots and could have a double gameweek in GW33 if they beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup. Raul Jimenez has had one of the best seasons of his career, with 11 goals and 3 assists in club competitions and 5 goals for the Mexican national team. His recent brace in the CONCACAF Nations League Cup final added to his confidence.
Jimenez has been in excellent form and continues to score consistently, including a stunning long-range free-kick for Mexico. His recent form and high potential make him an intriguing differential for fantasy managers looking for an affordable striker with solid returns.
These strikers offer a mix of form, upcoming fixtures, and potential for double gameweeks, making them key differentials as we enter the final stages of the Fantasy Premier League season. Choosing the right one could provide the edge needed to climb the rankings and finish the season strong.
