Best FPL XI without Cole Palmer for the 2024/25 season
As the new Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season kicks off, managers are on the lookout for the best possible lineup and one cannot imagine a Best FPL XI without Chelsea star Cole Palmer, but here we are!
While some might be tempted by Cole Palmer, especially after his performances last season, Sportsdunia takes a look at a well-rounded FPL XI that doesn’t include him, but still packs plenty of potential for a successful campaign.
Best FPL XI without Cole Palmer
Goalkeeper: Dean Henderson (£4.5m)
Henderson is expected to start between the posts for Crystal Palace. With Sam Johnstone possibly leaving, Henderson is a reliable and budget-friendly option. Palace ended last season with a solid defense under Oliver Glasner, making Henderson a smart pick. However, keep an eye on transfer activity that could impact Palace’s defensive stability.
Defenders: Josko Gvardiol (£6.0m), William Saliba (£6.0m), Pedro Porro (£5.5m)
Josko Gvardiol had a strong pre-season, and his left-back role at Manchester City could lead to high returns, with goals and assists likely if he continues his form from the end of last season.
William Saliba is the highest-owned defender in FPL, and for good reason. Arsenal’s defense was rock solid last season, and Saliba’s aerial threat from set-pieces adds to his appeal.
Pedro Porro offers plenty of attacking potential with three goals and eight assists last season. With favorable fixtures early on, Porro could deliver big points, but Spurs’ defensive woes remain a concern.
Midfielders: Bukayo Saka (£10.0m), Diogo Jota (£7.5m), Eberechi Eze (£7.0m), Emile Smith Rowe (£5.5m)
Bukayo Saka is a must-have in any FPL team. Despite a limited pre-season, he looked sharp and is expected to be central to Arsenal’s attacking play. His ability to produce double-digit hauls makes him an excellent alternative to Mohamed Salah.
Diogo Jota has been Liverpool’s standout performer in pre-season. With his pressing, work rate, and finishing, he is a great pick at £7.5m. The dilemma for managers is whether to opt for him over Salah to free up funds.
Eberechi Eze was instrumental for Crystal Palace under Glasner, and with set-pieces and penalties likely in his locker, Eze at £7.0m is a bargain. He’s a player to watch, especially with Palace’s decent fixtures.
Emile Smith Rowe is a budget enabler who could start the season strong in Fulham’s No. 10 role. At £5.5m, he allows managers to invest heavily elsewhere while still providing attacking returns.
Forwards: Erling Haaland (£15.0m), Alexander Isak (£8.5m), Dominic Solanke (£7.5m)
Erling Haaland is an essential pick. As the league’s top scorer, Haaland justifies his hefty price tag. He’s a reliable captain choice every week, with extra bonus points available for shots on target this season.
Alexander Isak has remained a consistent pick in FPL teams. With a favorable opening fixture against Southampton, Isak looks set to build on last season’s 21 goals and deliver even more in the 2024/25 campaign.
Dominic Solanke has a new role as Tottenham’s main striker. His move to Spurs could see him getting even more goal-scoring opportunities, making him a valuable pick at £7.5m.
Starting Best FPL XI without Cole Palmer for the 2024/25 season:
Goalkeeper: Dean Henderson (£4.5m)
Defenders: William Saliba (£6.0m) Josko Gvardiol (£6.0m) Pedro Porro (£5.5m)
Midfielders: Bukayo Saka (£10.0m) Diogo Jota (£7.5m) Eberechi Eze (£7.0m) Emile Smith Rowe (£5.5m)
Forwards: Erling Haaland (£15.0m) Alexander Isak (£8.5m) Dominic Solanke (£7.5m)