As the 2026/27 Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season kicks off, insights into player selections are becoming a hot topic.
Deputy Editor Tom Freeman shares his early team draft and spotlight on pivotal players he's tracking pre-season.
Spotlight on Alexander Isak
This season, Andoni Iraola aims to maximize the impact of Alexander Isak (£9.0m). After a disappointing previous season, Isak is poised to rejuvenate his performance in a conducive system. The expectations are high. During the last season, Isak struggled with injuries and form, which significantly hampered his contributions to the team. A fresh start in a new tactical setup could be exactly what he needs.
There's also a chance he'll assume penalty responsibilities, enhancing his allure for fantasy managers. Penalty takers can deliver a steady stream of points, especially in a league where goals can be hard to come by. This potential role, combined with Iraola's tactical adjustments, makes Isak a player worth tracking as managers finalize their squads.
“I believe he’s arrived at a great place. His World Cup performance was promising. In training, I've seen encouraging signs of him returning to form. Though still early, I anticipate he’ll gain valuable minutes against Leeds, setting up for a strong pre-season. He's essential for us this year.” – Andoni Iraola on Alexander Isak
There's a sense of optimism surrounding Isak's revival. Many will be watching closely as he builds momentum in the early weeks of the season. If he can find his stride quickly, he might just become a focal point for not only Newcastle's attack but also many fantasy squads. That said, his past performance creates a double-edged sword of expectation and uncertainty.
Another player intriguing to Freeman is Dominik Szoboszlai (£7.0m), a perfect fit for Iraola's tactics due to his versatility and affordability, offering great value. Szoboszlai has shown flashes of brilliance in previous matches, and if utilized correctly, he could become a significant asset in the upcoming season. His ability to play across multiple positions allows managers to be flexible with their formations.
Emerging Talent: Johan Manzambi
This summer saw significant shifts at Villa Park, impacting fantasy prospects. One of the most noteworthy acquisitions is Johan Manzambi (£6.0m), brought in to fill the void left by Morgan Rogers (£7.5m). The pressure to perform well in a new environment is palpable—especially with the expectations that come with his price tag.
While he primarily played defensively for Freiburg, there’s an expectation he’ll transition into a playmaking role under Unai Emery, much like a No. 10, enabling him to score and create chances effectively. The tactical shift could unlock a different dimension of his playing style. If converging his skills with Villa's attacking philosophy pays off, it might become a key part of their strategy this season.
From his German league outings, it's clear Manzambi can excel in offensive positions, often finding himself around the goal area even while playing deeper. The challenge for him will be adapting quickly to the Premier League's pace and physical demands. It’s going to be a different ball game, and adjustments will be crucial for his success.
Above: Johan Manzambi’s shot map from 2025/26, via Fotmob
Manzambi showcased his attacking prowess at the World Cup, adeptly exploiting space and demonstrating his ability to strike from deeper positions. His blend of skill, creativity, and vision promises to make him a player to watch closely this season. Achieving consistent performances at Aston Villa will not only be pivotal for his career but could also redefine how Emery's side operates in the final third. (and this is the part most people overlook) If you're working in this space, don't underestimate how crucial early season form can be for both players and managers alike.
Implications for the Upcoming Season
The shifting dynamics of player roles and team strategies at this early point creates a fascinating narrative for the upcoming FPL season. Isak’s transition from a frustrating year could signal a productive run, while Manzambi’s potential transformation from a defensive player to an attacking asset is that shift many fantasy managers are desperate for. This is more significant than it looks; if these players perform as expected, they’ll likely significantly impact their teams and, by extension, fantasy leagues.
As you finalize your own Fantasy Premier League lineups, consider the implications of these strategic shifts. Allocating budget effectively on players like Isak and Manzambi, who may bring unexpected returns, could very well determine whether your team thrives or flounders. With a season full of unpredictability approaching, keeping an eye on these developments is essential—not only for enjoying the game but for maximizing your league position.