By OkayGoal 
Fantasy Premier League managers approach Gameweek 36 with clear intent, especially those activating a Free Hit or Wildcard. The double Gameweek for Manchester City and Crystal Palace shapes the entire strategy for FPL managers. While projection models highlight Brighton, Aston Villa, and Arsenal as strong options, chip users can take a different path. They can target short-term upside without worrying about future transfers. This creates a rare opportunity to attack fixtures aggressively and gain ground in the final weeks of the season.
Crystal Palace double Gameweek offers calculated risk
Crystal Palace’s double Gameweek stands at the centre of this strategy, even if the projections appear underwhelming. They rank below several teams for clean sheets and attacking output, yet the volume of fixtures still matters. Managers using chips can commit to Palace assets without long-term consequences. Dean Henderson looks the safest entry point, with strong chances of starting both matches. In defence, Chris Richards and Daniel Muñoz offer a blend of minutes and attacking potential, though rotation remains a concern.
However, Palace’s involvement in European competition raises doubts about player fatigue. Recent performances suggest a lack of sharpness, including a heavy defeat that exposed defensive weaknesses. Even so, two fixtures provide more routes to points than a single match. For chip users, this outweighs the risks. The key lies in accepting uncertainty while backing the upside of extra minutes on the pitch.
Manchester City and Arsenal provide reliability and ceiling
Manchester City assets remain essential, particularly due to their double Gameweek. Erling Haaland leads the line as the standout captaincy option, offering both consistency and explosive potential. In midfield, Rayan Cherki provides creativity and attacking threat, making him a strong complementary pick. Defensively, Manchester City options continue to deliver steady returns, reinforcing their value.
Arsenal also play a major role in squad construction. Gabriel stands out as one of the most reliable defenders available, combining clean sheet potential with attacking threat. Bukayo Saka adds further value in midfield, showing encouraging signs despite recent minutes concerns. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes remains a constant presence in midfield selections. His consistency and involvement in attacking returns make him difficult to ignore, regardless of chip strategy.
Midfield decisions shaped by minutes and European schedule
Midfield selection becomes more complex due to rotation risks and fixture congestion. Players like Morgan Rogers attract interest due to favourable fixtures, but European commitments reduce their appeal. Aston Villa’s schedule creates uncertainty around minutes, which limits confidence in their assets. As a result, managers may prioritise players with more secure roles.
Dominik Szoboszlai emerges as an intriguing option for the final stretch. His involvement in set pieces and potential penalty duties increases his appeal. Similarly, Casemiro offers value through consistent performances and strong underlying numbers. While these players may not dominate projections, they provide stability and potential returns across multiple Gameweeks.
FPL Differentials could define rank gains in final weeks
Fantasy Premier League Differentials become increasingly important at this stage of the season. Danny Welbeck stands out as a strong option, particularly with a favourable fixture against Wolves. His low ownership and attacking role make him an ideal pick for managers chasing rank. Viktor Gyökeres also offers upside, especially with increased responsibility in attack due to injuries elsewhere.
These selections allow managers to move away from template teams while maintaining balance. Although they carry more risk, they also provide the potential for significant gains. Combining reliable core players with carefully chosen differentials creates a well-rounded squad capable of outperforming the average.
Wildcard mirrors Free Hit with focus on flexibility
The Wildcard strategy closely reflects the Free Hit structure, largely due to the strength of key teams. Manchester City and Arsenal dominate both drafts, supported by selective Crystal Palace inclusions. However, the Wildcard allows for greater flexibility beyond FPL Gameweek 36. Managers can plan for rotation, adjust for Fantasy Premier League Gameweek 37, and maintain squad depth.
Bench options become more important in this context. Players like Pascal Gross provide reliable cover, while budget options from Leeds offer rotation flexibility. The ability to adapt in the following Gameweeks adds value to the Wildcard, even if the starting eleven remains similar to the Free Hit team.
GW 36 ultimately rewards bold and informed decision-making. Crystal Palace may not inspire full confidence, but their double Gameweek cannot be ignored. Manchester City and Arsenal provide the foundation, while differentials offer the edge. With only a few matches remaining, managers must embrace risk to achieve meaningful gains. Those who execute this strategy effectively could shape the outcome of their season.
