Arsenal's EFL Cup semi-final victory over Chelsea has confirmed a lucrative Double Gameweek 26, prompting Fantasy Premier League managers to adjust their teams before Gameweek 25. Experts recommend selling underperforming or injured players like Bukayo Saka while targeting reliable Gunners such as Declan Rice and Gabriel. This strategic shift could prove pivotal as fixture swings expose risks and opportunities.
Arsenal's win in the EFL Cup semi-final against Chelsea on February 5, 2026, has reshaped Fantasy Premier League strategies for the 2025/26 season. The result secures a Double Gameweek 26 for the Gunners against Brentford and Wolves, with Wolves also doubling up versus Nottingham Forest and Arsenal. Fantasy expert Blake Hurst emphasizes the need for ruthless transfers ahead of Gameweek 25, noting that "fixture swings always spark opportunity, but they also expose a few weak links."
Among players to sell, Bukayo Saka (9.9m) tops the list due to a minor injury that caused him to miss the semi-final. Even if he returns for the doubles, his high price tag raises concerns over uncertain minutes, with Hurst suggesting Arsenal's defensive options like Declan Rice offer more reliability. Rayan Cherki (6.6m), recently at Manchester City, suffered a knock confirmed by Pep Guardiola, compounded by rotation risks amid upcoming fixtures against Liverpool, Fulham, and Newcastle. The same applies to Phil Foden. Anthony Gordon (7.3m) limped off during Newcastle's semi-final against Manchester City, creating fitness doubts despite no long-term issues. Igor Thiago (7.1m), a nailed starter on penalties, faces tough matchups at Newcastle and home to Arsenal, making a short-term switch to someone like Joao Pedro advisable. Nico O’Reilly (5.3m) struggles with City's defensive instability and rotation against Liverpool, Fulham, and Newcastle.
On the buy side, Hurst urges targeting Arsenal's core. Jurrien Timber (6.3m) provides attacking upside at a bargain price, ideal for the doubles against vulnerable opponents. Gabriel (7.0m) is hailed as "the best FPL option in the entire game right now," blending clean sheets, set-piece threats, and bonus points. Declan Rice (7.5m) delivers all-around value, highlighted by his stoppage-time assist against Chelsea, potentially gaining more set-piece duties with Saka sidelined. Beyond Arsenal, Elliot Anderson (5.3m) at Newcastle has amassed 32 points in six weeks through consistent DEFCON returns, while Bruno Fernandes (9.6m) remains Manchester United's heartbeat, a captaincy staple under Michael Carrick.
With prices set to rise, early moves could separate top rankers from the pack as managers navigate injuries, rotations, and the looming doubles.
