FPL Pod: Should you pick £15.0m Haaland?
The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season is upon us, and with it comes the annual debate: Is Erling Haaland worth his £15.0m price tag? This year, Haaland’s price has made him the most expensive asset ever in FPL history, a decision that has left many managers scratching their heads. While his goal-scoring prowess is undeniable, his price point is a significant hurdle for most FPL squads. So, the question remains: Is selecting £15.0m Haaland a good choice?
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of picking Haaland, considering his history, potential, and the new features in FPL 2024/25 that may impact your strategy.
- Consider Haaland’s prolific goal-scoring record and potential for consistent returns in FPL.
- Manchester City’s strong attacking force can provide ample scoring opportunities for Haaland.
- Haaland’s ability to earn bonus points through the new “Attacking Threat” system is a valuable asset.
- Beware of the significant risk associated with Haaland’s high price tag, especially if he faces injuries or a dip in form.
- Factor in the potential “captain’s armband fatigue” when considering Haaland as your captain every week.
- Haaland’s £15.0m price tag can limit your budget flexibility and potentially weaken your overall FPL squad.
The Case for Haaland
It’s impossible to deny Haaland’s prolific goal-scoring record. Last season, he shattered FPL records, scoring 36 goals and bagging 12 assists in just 35 appearances. His ability to find the back of the net consistently makes him a tempting prospect for FPL managers. Moreover, Manchester City’s dominance in the Premier League and their strong attacking force promise plenty of scoring opportunities for Haaland.
With a team like City, you can expect Haaland to start almost every game, giving you consistent returns. And with the new FPL features, his potential for bonus points is even greater. For example, the new “Attacking Threat” bonus points system rewards players who create chances and get into dangerous positions. Haaland’s ability to hold up the ball, create space, and find his teammates makes him a strong contender for these bonus points.
However, it’s important to remember that Haaland’s price comes with a significant risk. If he suffers injuries or faces a dip in form, his high price tag will become a major burden on your team. The risk of “captain’s armband fatigue” is also a factor to consider. With Haaland as your captain, you might feel pressured to keep him on the armband every week, even if other players are performing better.
The Case Against Haaland
While Haaland’s potential is enormous, his price tag is a considerable barrier. At £15.0m, he consumes a significant portion of your budget, leaving you with less to spend on other key players. This can lead to a weaker overall team. Additionally, his price makes him a risky investment. If he suffers a dip in form or gets injured, your team could be severely impacted.
Furthermore, the new FPL features might not necessarily benefit Haaland as much as you might think. The introduction of “Attacking Threat” bonus points, while potentially rewarding, could also be unpredictable. There’s a chance that other players, like Kevin De Bruyne or Phil Foden, might earn more bonus points due to their creative playmaking abilities.
The risk of “captain’s armband fatigue” is also a real concern. With Haaland as your captain, you might feel compelled to keep him on the armband every week, even if other players are performing better. This could negatively impact your overall score. Additionally, the new “Captain’s Pick” feature, which allows you to choose a second captain who plays on a different day, offers more flexibility and could reduce the pressure of having Haaland as your sole captain.
Alternatives to Haaland
Before you jump on the Haaland bandwagon, consider exploring alternative options. Players like Mohamed Salah at £12.5m, Bukayo Saka at £10.0m, and Phil Foden at £9.5m offer great value for money. These players are also less prone to injury and might be more consistent in their performances. You can also consider investing in a more balanced squad, spreading your budget across multiple players, which could lead to more consistent returns over the season.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pick Haaland is a personal one. It depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and your overall FPL strategy. If you are willing to gamble on one player and are confident in his ability to deliver, then Haaland could be a valuable asset. However, if you prefer a more balanced approach and are looking for value for money, then there are other great players available who might be more suitable for your team.
Final Thoughts
The £15.0m price tag for Haaland is a significant hurdle to overcome. While his goal-scoring ability is undeniable, it’s important to weigh the risks and rewards before making your decision. Remember, the FPL is a game of strategy, and it’s crucial to make informed choices that benefit your entire squad. A balanced team with a mix of proven performers and emerging talents could lead to greater success in the long run.
So, should you pick £15.0m Haaland? It’s a tough call. Ultimately, the decision is yours. But before you make your choice, carefully consider all the factors involved and be prepared for the potential consequences. Good luck with your FPL season!
