FPL Gameweek 1: Six Players to must keep in Fantasy Premier League Squad

Indian Super League Prediction

March 14 2026, 05:00 PM

SC East Bengal

Kerala Blasters

As the new Premier League season kicks off, Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers face the critical task of selecting lineup stars who can deliver maximum points from the very first gameweek.

With fresh signings, tactical shifts, and promising fixtures shaping the landscape, here are six standout players to watch for Gameweek 1 of the 2025-26 season. Here are six players one must have in the FPL Gameweek 1 team.

FPL Gameweek 1 Six Players to must have in Fantasy Premier League Squad

1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) - Midfielder, £14.5m

The perennial FPL favorite and a captaincy magnet, Mohamed Salah remains the top choice for Gameweek 1. Liverpool's home fixture against a weakened Bournemouth side makes Salah a formidable pick, with excellent potential for goals and assists. Salah is widely captained by over 80% of managers heading into the opening weekend, reflecting his status as the most reliable high-ceiling asset.

2. Florian Wirtz (Liverpool) - Midfielder, £8.5m

A record-breaking summer signing for Liverpool and the captain choice for some savvy managers, Florian Wirtz is expected to shine against Bournemouth's depleted defense. His attacking creativity and goal threat make him a great differential pick who also qualifies for double points as a new signing, offering a high ceiling for explosive returns.

3. Joao Pedro (Chelsea) - Forward, £7.5m

Joao Pedro has emerged as one of the most popular forwards in FPL, featuring in over half of all squads. Chelsea's promising start to the season and his goal-scoring form over the pre-season elevate him as a reliable striker choice for Gameweek 1, combining both safety and upside.

4. Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) - Forward, £9.0m

Watkins is gaining traction among elite FPL managers due to Aston Villa's favorable early fixtures. His consistency and attacking output from last season make him a smart mid-priced forward option, expected to continue delivering solid returns in the opening weeks.

5. El Hadji Malick Diouf (West Ham) - Defender, £4.5m

With new rules awarding defensive contribution points, Diouf offers a triple-threat potential-clean sheet, attacking returns, and defensive points. West Ham's favorable fixture against Sunderland and Diouf's pre-season form put him firmly on the radar as one of the best budget defenders to own for Gameweek 1.

6. Dominic Solanke (Tottenham) - Forward, £7.5m

A highly recommended striker who stands to benefit from Spurs' style of play under Thomas Frank, Solanke looks set to fill the goal-scoring void left by departing stars. With a promising fixture against Burnley and an established track record, he's a player to watch closely, though his fitness should be monitored ahead of kickoff.