Fantasy Premier League managers face key decisions ahead of gameweek 21, with expert Blake Hurst recommending five must-have players to boost squads amid improving fixtures. He also advises dumping four underperforming assets due to injuries and tough schedules. These moves could help teams regain momentum in the chaotic season.
Gameweek 21 offers FPL 2025/26 managers a chance to take control, as several teams rediscover form and fixtures turn favorable, according to Fantasy Premier League expert Blake Hurst. With differentials poised to shine, strategic transfers are essential for chasing mini-league success or steady progress.
Among the top buys, Bukayo Saka (10.2m) stands out for his reliability. Despite a frustrating benching in gameweek 20, the Arsenal winger has blanked just once since gameweek 10, boasting an expected goal involvement (XGI) per 90 of 0.64. His home fixture against Liverpool suits his style, making him a captaincy-safe pick despite the challenge.
Matty Cash (4.8m) provides a differential option for Aston Villa owners. With three goals and two assists this season, the defender loves to bomb forward. As managers target pricier attackers like Ollie Watkins, Cash could pay off against a less focused defense.
Cole Palmer (10.4m) is a must-own for Chelsea assets. Integral to the Blues' attack with penalties and set-pieces, he faces Fulham away—a manageable fixture before Chelsea's swing improves. Early adoption could yield returns before the crowd piles in.
Newcastle's Malick Thiaw (5.1m) combines defensive solidity with attacking threat. After a 17-point haul recently, his upcoming home game against Leeds and away at Wolves offer momentum-building potential. Hurst notes he's a value pick over alternatives like Lewis Hall.
Jack Grealish (6.5m) is the week's bold differential. Fresh off two assists and a 10-pointer against Brentford, the Manchester City winger looked sharp. Wolves at home exploits their flank weaknesses, with Leeds in gameweek 23 adding upside.
On the sell side, Hugo Ekitike (9.1m) of Liverpool is a headache due to fitness doubts after missing gameweek 20 against Fulham. His Arsenal away fixture adds risk, making him expendable for midfield upgrades.
Joško Gvardiol (6.1m) suffered a worrying injury against Chelsea, with Pep Guardiola stating, “it doesn’t look good.” Manchester City's rotation and congestion make holding him unwise; reinvest in nailed starters.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin's (5.9m) serviceable form at Everton caps out against tough fixtures like Newcastle, Fulham, and Arsenal. He's now expendable for in-form alternatives.
Phil Foden (8.9m) has endured four straight blanks despite steady minutes. His upcoming games against Brighton, Manchester United, and Wolves aren't inspiring enough to justify patience at his price.
Hurst also suggests rolling transfers to preserve flexibility, as fixture swings loom for teams like Manchester United, Bournemouth, and Chelsea from gameweek 22 onward. This patient approach could prove strategic amid the season's chaos.
