FPL Gameweek 1 Review (2025/26): Key Performers & Fantasy Insights
Updated after GW1 fixtures.
The Premier League kicked off with big wins, shock results, and plenty of talking points for FPL managers. Here’s a breakdown of the top Fantasy performers from Gameweek 1 and what they mean for your squad ahead of GW2.
Goalkeepers
Best Performer: David Raya (10 pts) — kept a clean sheet, made 7 saves, picked up 3 bonus points, but lost a point after being booked.
Burnley’s Martin Dubravka was the only £4.0m goalkeeper to start, but investing in a newly promoted side comes with risks despite the price tag.
Defenders
Best Performer: Daniel Ballard (17 pts) — a dream return with a goal, clean sheet, 3 bonus points, and defensive contributions.
Arsenal’s Calafiori also found the net, proving himself an attacking threat from defence in the win over Manchester United.
Midfielders
Best Performer: Antoine Semenyo (15 pts) — bagged a brace and 3 bonus points to top the midfield charts.
Man City’s Tijjani Reijnders caught the eye with a goal and an assist, suggesting he could become a valuable differential in midfield.
Forwards
Top Performers: Erling Haaland, Richarlison, and Chris Wood (all 13 pts) — each scored twice and claimed 3 bonus points.
Haaland delivered as expected, but Wood continued last season’s hot form while Ekitike scored and assisted on his Liverpool debut — ones to watch.
Takeaways for GW2
- Raya looks like a premium keeper worth monitoring if Arsenal’s defence stays strong.
- Ballard is a standout budget defender if Sunderland’s form continues.
- Semenyo could become this year’s breakout enabler in midfield.
- Ekitike’s fast start makes him an exciting differential pick.