Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers are once again immersed in the rollercoaster of emotions that defines this beloved game. With over 11 million players worldwide, FPL is a test of strategy, patience, and sometimes sheer luck. However, just a couple of gameweeks into the new campaign, frustrations are already bubbling to the surface. From unexpected player performances to controversial rule changes and chip strategy dilemmas, FPL managers are venting their grievances.
Unpredictable Player Performances
One of the most common complaints among FPL managers is the unpredictable nature of player performances. This sentiment captures the heart of FPL frustration: the game’s volatility. Managers spend hours analyzing stats, fixtures, and form, only to see their carefully selected players underperform while benched players haul points. For instance, premium picks like Mohamed Salah (£14.5m) and Cole Palmer (£10.5m) have sparked heated debates. Despite their hefty price tags, some managers feel their output hasn’t justified the cost, especially when cheaper alternatives like Chris Wood (£7.7m) or Antoine Semenyo (£7.2m) deliver better returns.
Players You Should Avoid in GW3
Bruno Fernandes (£9.0m)
Despite what looks like Manchester United's easiest fixture of the season so far against Burnley, Bruno Fernandes has struggled to make an impact, blanking in both games against Arsenal and Fulham.
It appears Fernandes is playing in a deeper role under Amorim this season, the Manchester United manager recently spoke about the need for Kobbie Mainoo to fight for his place over the Portugese maestro. This is likely to decrease Bruno Fernandes' attacking output.
The midfielder also looked shot for confidence after missing a penalty at Craven Cottage on Sunday evening.
Florian Wirtz (£8.4m)
Liverpool are set to take on Arsenal in Gameweek 3—a match seen as much more of a challenge. Though Wirtz remains a popular pick with around 27% ownership, the fixture is expected to suppress his attacking output.
Despite his pedigree, Wirtz delivered just 2 FPL points in each of Gameweek 1 and 2—falling well below expectations. As a result, over 300,000 managers sold him immediately post-GW1, marking him as the most sold player of that Gameweek.
Omar Marmoush (£8.4m)
Marmoush has played 2 league games so far this season and has yet to register a goal or assist.
Manchester City got beat 2‑0 at home against Tottenham last time out, with tactical flaws and lack of cohesion noted, especially in midfield.
A shaky collective performance from City makes it risky to rely on Marmoush—particularly in a game immediately following such a poor team display.
Marmoush isn’t guaranteed to start regularly. Despite flashes of brilliance, Pep Guardiola has already had him on the bench this season—bringing own risk.
Jarrod Bowen (£7.9m)
Through the first two matches of the season, West Ham sit rock bottom with 0 points, 1 goal scored, and a staggering 8 conceded — a goal conceded per 10 minutes.
Graham Potter admitted he was “under pressure” after these results, while West Ham endured the poorest defensive start in the club’s Premier League history.
Nottingham Forest away — a challenging fixture, followed by a pattern of difficult away trips including Everton, Arsenal, and others.
Bowen has failed to register a goal or assist in either of West Ham's opening fixtures, matching the expected team-wide confidence slump, leading to a price drop in FPL.
Danny Welbeck (£6.4m)
In Brighton's second match of the season at Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium, Welbeck was denied from the spot. Jordan Pickford saved his weak effort, despite having clues on a cheat sheet in his water bottle directing him where Welbeck tends to place his penalties.
Missing a penalty, especially in a high-profile game, can dent a striker’s momentum and morale—something Fantasy managers should take note of.
Danny Welbeck's proven quality and previous season output make him a tempting pick early on. However, the high-pressure penalty miss, followed by a notable dip in returns amid concerns over fitness, rotation, and fixture suitability, make him a rather uncertain asset.
Milos Kerkez (£6.0m)
Despite their newfound offensive firepower, Liverpool have begun the season showing notable defensive vulnerabilities, conceding four goals in their first two league matches.
While signing Kerkez was a smart move for Liverpool's future, his Gameweek 3 appeal in FPL is limited by uncertainties, competition for his spot, and overall team defensive shakiness.
El Hadji Malick Diouf (£4.5m)
As mentioned above, through the first two matches of the season, West Ham sit rock bottom with 0 points, 1 goal scored, and a staggering 8 conceded — a goal conceded per 10 minutes.
Such poor collective defensive form increases the risk that any emerging full-back—especially one still adapting—will struggle to deliver clean sheet potential for FPL managers.
