Best FPL XI without Bukayo Saka for the 2024/25 season

As the new Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season approaches, managers are busy assembling their squads in hopes of finding the perfect balance of points and budget.

While Bukayo Saka is a popular pick for many, it’s possible to build a strong XI without him.

Sportsdunia takes a look at a well-rounded FPL squad consisting of 15 players, that could give you an edge without relying on the Premier League star.

Best FPL XI without Bukayo Saka

Goalkeepers

Dean Henderson (£4.5m)
Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson stands out as a reliable choice between the posts. Last season, the Eagles were among the top four teams for Expected Goals Against (xGA), and Henderson is expected to be their first-choice goalkeeper. His budget-friendly price and favourable fixtures make him an excellent option.

(Optional)
Lukasz Fabianski (£4.0m)
As a backup, Lukasz Fabianski could become a starter by the end of the transfer window. With Alphonse Areola’s future uncertain, Fabianski might secure the spot. However, this pick is more about potential than certainty. The plan is to keep the spending minimal on goalkeepers, with Henderson starting every week.

Defenders

Josko Gvardiol (£6.0m)
Gvardiol is one of the most promising defenders this season. He led all defenders in penalty-box touches during the second half of last season and ranked third for Expected Goal Involvement (xGI). With Liverpool’s full-backs missing much of pre-season, Gvardiol’s form and fitness make him a solid choice.

Daniel Munoz (£5.0m)
Munoz has shown his attacking potential as a wing-back, creating 21 chances in the latter part of last season. He’s worth the extra £0.5m over other defenders due to his consistent performance, making him a player to rely on every week.

Ezri Konsa (£4.5m)
The changes in the Bonus Points System (BPS) could benefit Konsa, who was the most fouled defender last season. With his versatility and ability to play multiple positions, Konsa is likely to be a regular starter in Aston Villa’s defense.

Antonee Robinson (£4.5m)
Robinson offers value at £4.5m, having created 32 chances last season, resulting in six assists. His impressive pre-season form, including two more assists, suggests he could be a key player for Fulham this year.

Valentin Barco (£4.0m)
Barco is a bit of a gamble, but with Brighton’s Pervis Estupinan injured, Barco could start at left-back. He’s been taking corners during pre-season, which could add to his points tally.

Midfielders

Mohamed Salah (£12.5m)
Despite a dip in form at the end of last season, Salah remains a top pick. Under new head coach Arne Slot, Salah is expected to thrive. Starting with the most expensive midfielder offers the flexibility to switch to other premium options like Phil Foden or Cole Palmer if needed.

Anthony Gordon (£7.5m)
Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon had a breakthrough season last year, and with a favourable run of fixtures, he’s expected to deliver strong performances. Despite limited pre-season minutes, Gordon is likely to start in Gameweek 1.

Eberechi Eze (£7.0m)
With Michael Olise sidelined, Eze is set to be Crystal Palace’s main man, taking on set-piece duties. The arrival of Daichi Kamada and Ismaila Sarr should only boost his potential for points.

Christopher Nkunku (£6.5m)
Nkunku is one of the season’s hidden gems, priced at just £6.5m. He’s had a strong pre-season, scoring three goals and playing consistently. His versatility makes him a perfect fit for Chelsea’s system, and with great fixtures after Gameweek 1, he’s a must-have.

Harry Winks (£4.5m)
Winks is a budget enabler, likely to be a bench option most weeks. His £4.5m price tag makes him an ideal third sub.

Forwards

Erling Haaland (£15.0m)
Haaland is the most expensive player in FPL, but his consistency makes him a no-brainer. He’s the go-to captain pick most weeks, especially when playing at home, offering reliability that’s hard to match.

Alexander Isak (£8.5m)
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is expected to shine this season, especially with no European commitments. With Callum Wilson a doubt, Isak should start centrally and take penalties, making him a great choice.

Rodrigo Muniz (£6.0m)
Muniz finished last season strong, leading all forwards in shots inside the box during the final 10 Gameweeks. With favourable fixtures, including matches against promoted sides, he’s a budget-friendly forward to consider.

Starting FPL XI without Bukayo Saka for the 2024/25 season:

Formation: 3-4-3:

• Goalkeeper:
  Dean Henderson (£4.5m)
  
• Defenders:
  Josko Gvardiol (£6.0m)
  Daniel Munoz (£5.0m)
  Ezri Konsa (£4.5m)
  
• Midfielders:
  Mohamed Salah (£12.5m)
  Anthony Gordon (£7.5m)
  Eberechi Eze (£7.0m)
  Christopher Nkunku (£6.5m)
  
• Forwards:
  Erling Haaland (£15.0m)
  Alexander Isak (£8.5m)
  Rodrigo Muniz (£6.0m)