Why Blank and Double Gameweeks will be different in 2024/25 FPL
For many Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, the excitement of the season often hinges on navigating the tricky waters of Blank and Double Gameweeks. These periods, where certain teams have no Premier League fixtures or play twice in a single Gameweek, respectively, can be both a blessing and a curse. They present opportunities to strategically deploy chips like Free Hit, Triple Captain, and Bench Boost, but mismanaging them can lead to a significant points drop. However, the 2024/25 season is poised to shake things up, with a revamped football calendar expected to introduce fewer and smaller Blank and Double Gameweeks. This change could potentially lead to a shift in chip strategies, forcing managers to adapt and rethink their approach.
The traditional approach often involved saving chips for these special Gameweeks, using Free Hit to field a full XI during a Blank Gameweek and employing Triple Captain and Bench Boost to maximize returns during Double Gameweeks. But with fewer blank and double gameweeks to contend with, managers may need to be more flexible and consider using these chips at other strategic points throughout the season. This could lead to new and innovative chip strategies that maximize points and provide a competitive edge.
Understanding the reasons behind this change is crucial for navigating the 2024/25 FPL season successfully. The key factor is a significant adjustment to the FA Cup schedule. The FA Cup quarter-finals will now be held on a weekend in late March that doesn’t coincide with any Premier League matches. Traditionally, this cup fixture often caused the most significant Blank Gameweek of the season, as teams involved in the competition had their league matches postponed. This reshuffling of the FA Cup schedule means there will be fewer fixture clashes and, consequently, fewer postponements to disrupt the Premier League schedule.
This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for FPL managers. While the absence of a large Blank Gameweek in late March could lead to a more consistent scoring landscape, it also means that managers might have to reconsider their traditional chip strategies. Instead of relying on chips specifically for Blank and Double Gameweeks, managers may need to employ a more dynamic approach, utilizing chips at different points in the season to capitalize on specific opportunities.
For example, the new calendar could make a Gameweek 1 Bench Boost a more attractive option. With most clubs fielding strong line-ups at the start of the season, there’s less risk of rest and rotation compared to later in the campaign. By using the Bench Boost early on, managers can focus on maximizing their starting XI for the rest of the season, without having to worry about having four strong substitutes for a later Bench Boost.
- The 2024/25 FPL season will see fewer and smaller Blank and Double Gameweeks due to a revamped football calendar.
- Managers may need to adapt their chip strategies as a result of the changes, being more flexible in when to use chips like Free Hit, Triple Captain, and Bench Boost.
- A significant adjustment to the FA Cup schedule, with quarter-finals now held on a weekend in late March without Premier League matches, is the key factor driving the change.
- With fewer fixture clashes and postponements, managers may face a more consistent scoring landscape but will also need to rethink traditional chip strategies.
- New and innovative chip strategies may emerge in the 2024/25 season as managers seek to maximize points and gain a competitive edge.
Why a New Approach to Chip Strategies is Essential
The changes to the football calendar for the 2024/25 season create a unique challenge for FPL managers. The traditional strategies of saving chips for Blank and Double Gameweeks might not be as effective as they have been in the past. This is because the number of these special Gameweeks is expected to be significantly reduced, which could lead to managers having to rethink their chip strategies and potentially deploy them at different points during the season. This dynamic shift in the FPL landscape necessitates a more adaptable and strategic approach to chip usage.
The absence of a major Blank Gameweek in late March, caused by the FA Cup quarter-finals, is a significant factor driving this change. This traditionally problematic Gameweek often forced managers to employ their Free Hit chip to ensure a full playing XI. However, with this disruption now removed, managers might find themselves with a lesser need to deploy the Free Hit chip in the traditional manner.
Another key change is the anticipated reduction in the number of Double Gameweeks. While Double Gameweeks still offer opportunities for high scores, the decrease in their frequency could lead to a shift in the strategic value of chips like Triple Captain and Bench Boost. Managers might have fewer opportunities to maximize these chips, potentially leading to a change in their chip deployment strategy.
The potential for fewer Blank and Double Gameweeks doesn’t necessarily mean that they will disappear entirely. The EFL Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals can still cause fixture clashes, leading to smaller Blank and Double Gameweeks throughout the season. Additionally, unforeseen circumstances like bad weather or other unexpected events can always disrupt the fixture list, resulting in further fixture postponements and reschedulings. While the impact of these events might be less frequent and less pronounced, managers should still remain vigilant and adapt their strategies accordingly.
New Chip Strategies to Consider
The changing landscape of Blank and Double Gameweeks in the 2024/25 season presents an opportunity for FPL managers to rethink their chip strategies and potentially develop new and innovative approaches. Instead of relying on traditional strategies that are heavily reliant on these special Gameweeks, managers might want to consider using chips at different points in the season to take advantage of specific opportunities.
One strategy to consider is using the Bench Boost chip in Gameweek 1. This could be particularly beneficial given that most clubs tend to field strong line-ups on the opening weekend, minimizing the risk of rest and rotation. By using the Bench Boost early in the season, managers can focus on building a strong starting XI for the rest of the season, rather than saving the chip for a potential Double Gameweek later.
Another strategy to consider is saving the Free Hit chip for Gameweek 38, the final day of the season. This strategy can be advantageous as goals tend to flow on the final day, and teams might be playing for titles or fighting for Premier League survival. Having the flexibility to cherry-pick a squad for this crucial Gameweek could be a significant advantage.
However, there’s always a risk associated with using the Free Hit chip, as it allows managers to make unlimited transfers for one Gameweek only. This can lead to over-thinking and potentially making unwise decisions. The key is to carefully consider your team’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the potential for key players to be involved in a title race or relegation battle.
Key Considerations for Chip Strategy in 2024/25
Navigating the 2024/25 FPL season with its altered schedule will require a thoughtful approach to chip strategy. Managers need to be flexible and prepared to adapt to the changing dynamics of the game. While traditional strategies might still have some merit, it’s crucial to stay informed and analyze the evolving schedule to make informed decisions.
Here are some key considerations for chip strategy in the 2024/25 season:
- Monitor the Schedule: Stay updated on the latest fixture releases and potential postponements. This will help you identify potential opportunities for chip usage.
- Analyze Team Performances: Pay close attention to team form, injury updates, and player rotation. This information will help you decide which chips to use and when.
- Utilize the Wildcard Chip: The Wildcard chip remains a valuable tool for preparing for Blank and Double Gameweeks. Use it strategically to build a strong squad that can navigate these challenges.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: The new season presents a chance to explore new chip strategies. Be open to experimenting and adapting your approach based on the evolving landscape.
The 2024/25 FPL season promises to be an exciting one, with the potential for new and exciting chip strategies emerging as managers adapt to the revamped schedule. By staying informed, analyzing the game, and being flexible in their approach, managers can maximize their points and potentially achieve their FPL goals.
