The Premier League 2025/26 fixtures are out, and with that, the excitement for a new Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season is in full swing.
The opening five game weeks offer a great opportunity to start strong, especially if you pick players who were consistent last season and also have a favourable run of fixtures to begin with.
Here are five players, each from a different team, who look like smart early picks based on form, minutes, and opening fixtures.
Embed from Getty Images1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – Midfielder
Liverpool begin the season at home to AFC Bournemouth, which is a great fixture for Salah. After that, they face Newcastle (A), Arsenal (H), Burnley (A), and Everton (H). While two of those games are against strong sides, Salah has shown time and again that he can score points against anyone.
He takes penalties, plays nearly every game, and remains Liverpool’s main attacking threat. Now, heading into his second season under Arne Slot, Salah should be settled in the system and ready to start strong again.
Embed from Getty Images2. Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – Forward
City’s opening fixtures are challenging: Wolves (A), Tottenham (H), Brighton (A), Manchester United (H), and Arsenal (H). Despite that, Haaland is still an essential pick for many managers.
He’s capable of scoring braces or hat-tricks in any match and is always among the top captain choices. Even if you don’t plan to captain him every week, going without him is risky due to his high ownership and explosive nature.
Embed from Getty Images3. Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) – Forward
Villa start with Newcastle (H), Brentford (A), Crystal Palace (H), Everton (A), and Sunderland (A). Watkins had a brilliant campaign last season, finishing as the top-scoring forward.
He’s nailed in the starting lineup, plays nearly every minute, and is on penalties. With Villa’s opening schedule, Watkins has a strong chance of picking up goals and assists early on, making him great value again.
Embed from Getty Images4. Jarrod Bowen (West Ham) – Midfielder
West Ham face Sunderland (A), Chelsea (H), Nottingham Forest (A), Tottenham (H), and Crystal Palace (H). Bowen often thrives against newly promoted and mid-table sides, and the Sunderland and Forest fixtures look particularly appealing.
He’s at the centre of West Ham’s attack and regularly pops up with important goals. If you’re after a slightly lower-owned midfielder with great potential, Bowen is a smart pick.
Embed from Getty Images5. Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton) – Defender
Everton’s early fixtures are quite kind, starting with a trip to newly promoted Leeds, followed by games against Brighton, Wolves, Aston Villa, and a tougher one at Liverpool.
Branthwaite was one of Everton’s standout players last season and looks set to keep his spot at the heart of defence. With a decent chance of clean sheets and a low price tag, he could be a solid budget option for the early game weeks.
Embed from Getty ImagesFinal Thought
A strong start in FPL can set the tone for your season. If these five stay fit, they could deliver early and give you an edge from the start.
Written by Destiny Eromosele
INMR FOOTBALL 
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