Should You Stick or Twist with Fernandes in FPL?

Bruno Fernandes is currently under scrutiny among Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, especially after his recent penalty miss during Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Fulham. With over 20% ownership among players, the question arises: should Fernandes remain in your FPL squad? This article explores his current form, recent performances, and the implications for FPL managers.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

Bruno Fernandes missed a penalty against Fulham, impacting his FPL value.
He plays a crucial role in Manchester United's attacking and set-piece strategy.
Fernandes has a decent run of fixtures coming up, including Burnley and Chelsea.
Alternative player options exist for those considering a transfer.
Recent performances might raise doubts about Manchester United's overall form.

Bruno Fernandes: A Key Player Under Pressure

Bruno Fernandes has been a cornerstone for Manchester United since his arrival, known for his creativity and ability to convert penalties. However, his recent penalty miss has raised questions about his reliability, especially in the context of Fantasy Premier League. In their latest match against Fulham, Fernandes played in the deepest position of any United midfielder, limiting his attacking potential.

Current Form and Performance Analysis

Fernandes' average position in the game against Fulham indicates he spent more time in his own half than in the opposition's. While this has hindered his attacking contributions, it has enhanced his defensive statistics. His role in set-pieces, free-kicks, and corners remains crucial, making him a valuable asset in terms of overall points potential.

Manager Insights: Should You Keep or Sell Fernandes?

Debates among FPL experts such as Statman Dave and FPL Heisenberg highlight the complexity of the decision. Statman Dave argues that selling Fernandes would be unwise, given that he remains on penalties and is still creating chances, ranking second in the league for opportunities created. He points out that Fernandes is set to face Burnley, a match that could present an ideal opportunity for him to regain form.

Upcoming Fixtures: A Mixed Bag

Fernandes' next five fixtures include:

Burnley (H)
Manchester City (A)
Chelsea (H)
Brentford (A)
Sunderland (H)

These matches present a mix of challenges and opportunities. Notably, Fernandes has had a successful track record against Manchester City, which adds to the intrigue for FPL players.

Potential Alternatives to Fernandes

While Fernandes has his merits, FPL managers might consider alternatives that could provide similar or better returns. Budget-friendly options include:

Mohammed Kudus (West Ham)
Brennan Johnson (Tottenham)
Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)
Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth)

These players have shown promise early in the season and could be more cost-effective than Fernandes.

Financial Considerations: Redistributing Funds

Another factor to consider is the financial aspect of your team. If selling Fernandes allows you to invest in higher-priced forwards like Erling Haaland, it could potentially enhance your squad's overall performance. Alternatives such as Elliot Anderson or Tijjani Reijnders could free up funds while maintaining a competitive edge.

Trust Issues with Manchester United

After Manchester United's shocking defeat to Grimsby in the EFL Cup, doubts may arise regarding the team's reliability. The inconsistency of results could lead FPL managers to rethink their strategy with United players. If you feel uncertain about their potential, this might add weight to the decision to transfer Fernandes out.

Conclusion: The Dilemma of Keeping or Selling

Bruno Fernandes remains a polarising figure in the Fantasy Premier League landscape. While his recent performances and the missed penalty raise concerns, he continues to be integral to Manchester United's gameplay. With a mix of favourable fixtures ahead, it may be prudent to hold onto him for now, especially considering his potential to bounce back. However, the availability of viable alternatives and the need to balance your squad's financial health make this a nuanced decision.

FAQs

Is Bruno Fernandes still on penalties for Manchester United?

Yes, despite missing a penalty against Fulham, Bruno Fernandes remains the designated penalty taker for Manchester United.

What are the upcoming fixtures for Manchester United?

Manchester United's next fixtures include home matches against Burnley and Chelsea, along with away games against Manchester City and Brentford.

Are there better alternatives to Fernandes in FPL?

Yes, players like Mohammed Kudus, Brennan Johnson, Cody Gakpo, and Antoine Semenyo are considered viable alternatives who may provide better value.

Should I sell Fernandes after his recent performance?

While selling Fernandes is a valid consideration, it's important to weigh his potential for future returns against the performance of available alternatives.

How can I redistribute funds in my FPL team?

You can sell higher-priced players like Fernandes to invest in premium forwards such as Erling Haaland, freeing up funds for other positions.

As you weigh your options for the upcoming gameweek, consider how Fernandes' role might evolve and whether his potential rewards outweigh the risks. Will you keep faith in him, or are there better options on the horizon? #FPL #BrunoFernandes #FantasyFootball