FPL 2025/26: Bank on Bruno and go with Enzo – five players you need to buy ahead of GW24

FPL gameweek 24 has finally arrived and, after a wild GW23 that saw Manchester United stun Arsenal, Manchester City bench both Phil Foden and Erling Haaland, Bournemouth shock Liverpool, and struggling West Ham hit three past Sunderland, the long-awaited fixture swings are here, writes Fantasy Premier League expert Blake Hurst. This is the turning point FPL managers have been anticipating: those with a solid transfer plan can jump ahead, while others panic as form and fixtures flip overnight. The time is now, target the players entering hot runs, and ride the wave into the next phase of the season. Here are five assets worth buying ahead of the chaos.

Declan Rice (7.4m)

If you were building a wildcard team today, Rice would be one of the first names in it. He’s quietly become one of the most complete and valuable FPL options around – on most set pieces, capable of both scoring and creating, and posting elite DEFCON numbers at an average of 10.85 per 90. His influence keeps growing, and even with tougher games, he always looks close to returns. Rice offers a steady stream of points that never feels reliant on luck: a consistent starter, a bonus magnet, and a reliable midfielder ticking over every week. Great price, nailed role, and form improving – he fits almost every squad.

Morgan Rogers (7.7m)

Morgan Rogers continues to pass the eye test and the data test. Over the last six gameweeks, he’s taken 17 shots – among the best in his position – showing real confidence and intent in the final third. Even during Aston Villa’s quieter spells, Rogers finds dangerous positions and isn’t afraid to shoot. With the fixture list about to turn, now’s the right time to bring him back in before everyone remembers how strong his numbers are. Villa’s next run offers real potential for attacking returns, and Rogers has the tools to haul. He’s still a little under the radar, but those paying attention know the breakout is coming.

Evanilson (7.0m)

This weeks differential. Form, opportunity, and fixtures – Evanilson ticks every box. The Bournemouth forward has looked lively lately, taking 16 shots in the last six gameweeks and grabbing three returns in his last four matches, against tough opposition too – Arsenal, Spurs, and Liverpool among them. With Antoine Semenyo departing for Manchester City and Justin Kluivert and Marcus Tavernier sidelined, Evanilson could also find himself on penalty duties. His 2.5% ownership screams differential gold, especially heading into a favourable run of fixtures starting with Wolves this week. He’s leading the line for an improving Bournemouth side and looks full of confidence. If you’re chasing rank or just want to get ahead of the crowd, Evanilson is your differential of the week – low-owned, high upside, and ready to deliver.

Bruno Fernandes (9.5m)

When Fernandes plays in the number 10 role, there are few FPL assets more reliable. He’s nailed, on penalties, and capable of scoring or assisting from open play or set pieces – the definition of an all-round threat. Add in his DEFCON bonus potential, and there are countless routes to points. Manchester United’s confidence is high after dismantling Arsenal and Manchester City, and the upcoming fixture run looks tailor-made for Fernandes to flourish. When United click, Bruno invariably leads the way, dictating tempo and driving things forward. He’s the heartbeat of this side and, once again, edging towards “essential” territory in FPL. If you’re not already on him, now’s the moment.

Enzo Fernández (6.7m)

Enzo Fernández remains one of the best value midfielders in the game. His underlying numbers continue to impress – 0.61 xGI per 90, second only to Haaland among expected non-penalty contributors this season. While a slight rotation risk over the next few matches due to the amount of games Chelsea have coming up, even a one-game rest shouldn’t deter investment. When Cole Palmer doesn’t start, Fernandez often moves into the number 10 role and takes penalties, giving him huge upside for his price. His technical quality and attacking involvement have been improving every week under Liam Rosenior, and Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures give him a brilliant platform to keep delivering. If you want sustainable, long-term value with real return potential, Enzo is your man. If you prefer the Chelsea defence, Trevoh Chalobah offers fantastic clean-sheet coverage and DEFCON potential.