In the world of Fantasy Premier League (FPL), selecting the right players can make or break your season. One player who was an essential pick in the 2023/24 FPL season was Cole Palmer. The midfielder enjoyed an exceptional debut season at Chelsea, emerging as the highest points-scorer in FPL. Starting the campaign at a bargain price of £5m, Palmer quickly became a must-have for FPL managers looking to rack up points.
Despite more than doubling in price for the 2024/25 season, Palmer remains a popular choice for FPL managers. His impressive performances for Chelsea under new management have solidified his status as a key player. However, after a busy summer representing England at Euro 2024, Palmer’s availability for Chelsea’s opening match of the season is in question.
Following a hectic international schedule that saw England reach the Euro 2024 final, where Palmer scored in a 2-1 defeat to Spain, the midfielder has only recently returned from a well-deserved break. While Palmer featured in Chelsea’s pre-season match against Serie A champions Inter, coming off the bench in the second half, it may take some time for him to reach full match fitness.
With new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca potentially opting to rest Palmer for the season opener against Manchester City, FPL managers will need to monitor his fitness closely. Maresca acknowledged the need for Palmer and several other players to regain match sharpness ahead of the new campaign, hinting at the possibility of a reduced role for Palmer in the early stages.
As Palmer’s price has risen to £10.5m, FPL managers may need to consider alternative midfield options. While Mohamed Salah remains out of reach for many at £12.5m, players like Bukayo Saka, Son Heung-min, Phil Foden, and Kevin De Bruyne offer quality alternatives. Additionally, Bruno Fernandes and Martin Odegaard provide value at £8.5m, presenting FPL managers with a range of options to consider.
In conclusion, Cole Palmer’s impact in FPL is undeniable, but with his availability uncertain for Chelsea’s opener, FPL managers may need to look elsewhere for midfield options. With a plethora of talented players available at various price points, careful planning and strategic decision-making will be crucial for success in the 2024/25 FPL season. Stay tuned for the latest updates on Palmer’s fitness and make informed decisions to maximize your chances of FPL success.
