Fantasy Bundesliga: Matchday 23 Scout Squads
Once again, it’s time for the Fantasy Bundesliga enthusiasts to pit their strategic skills against one another as Matchday 23 approaches. This week, our writers, Rune Gjerulff and Ultán Corcoran, have carefully crafted their squads, abiding by the rules that no player can cost more than 120M, have an ownership rate exceeding 20%, or more than three players can be from the same team. Additionally, each manager has the power to double their points by selecting a captain. Here’s a closer look at the teams they’ve put together.
Rune Gjerulff’s Squad
Rune Gjerulff has assembled a diverse and balanced team for Matchday 23, with players from a variety of clubs and positions. Starting with the defense, Anthony Caci from Mainz (10M, 10%) and Willi Orban from RB Leipzig (11M, 10%) provide solid options. Caci has been a key figure for Mainz, known for his robust tackling and occasional assists, while Orban’s experience and leadership in Leipzig’s backline make him a reliable choice. David Raum, also from RB Leipzig (15M, 11%), adds another defensive layer with his strong defensive skills and the ability to contribute to the attack.
In midfield, Alejandro Grimaldo from Leverkusen (20M, 12%) is the standout player, not only because of his immense talent but also because he is Rune’s captain, earning double points. Grimaldo’s ability to create chances and score has made him a must-have for many Fantasy managers. Nathan Ngoumou from Gladbach (9M, 0%) and Patrick Wimmer from Wolfsburg (10M, 0%) offer dynamic playmaking capabilities. Ngoumou has shown flashes of brilliance and could be a hidden gem, while Wimmer’s consistent performances and versatility make him a valuable addition.
Upfront, Rune has chosen Pascal Gross from Dortmund (11M, 1%) and Mohamed Amoura from Wolfsburg (10M, 12%). Gross, with his clever positioning and eye for goal, has been a steady performer, and Amoura’s recent form indicates he could be a high-point scorer. Jonathan Burkardt from Mainz (10M, 3%) and Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig (14M, 11%) complete the attack. Burkardt’s goal-scoring prowess and Sesko’s promising young talent add depth and potential for big performances.
Analysis of Rune’s Team
Rune’s team is a blend of experienced and emerging talent, with a strong emphasis on players who can contribute in multiple areas of the pitch. The selection of Leipzig players in both defense and attack demonstrates his trust in the team’s form and tactical setup. Mainz’s contribution, particularly in the forward line, adds a layer of unpredictability, which can be both a risk and a reward in Fantasy football. The inclusion of Gross and Ngoumou, despite their lower ownership rates, showcases Rune’s willingness to take calculated risks on players who are showing signs of improvement. With Grimaldo as the captain, Rune is banking on his consistent performance and the potential for a high-scoring matchday.
Ultán Corcoran’s Squad
Ultán Corcoran’s team for Matchday 23 is another well-thought-out lineup that balances cost, ownership, and performance. In defense, Daniel Svensson from Dortmund (7M, 3%) stands out as a budget-friendly option with surprising defensive solidity. Anthony Caci from Mainz (10M, 10%) and David Raum from RB Leipzig (15M, 11%) offer a mix of defensive prowess and attacking potential. Nadiem Amiri from Mainz (13M, 3%) adds to the midfield with his creative play and occasional goal-scoring ability.
Midfielders Patrick Wimmer from Wolfsburg (10M, 0%) and Enzo Millot from Stuttgart (11M, 3%) bring a dynamic element to the team. Wimmer’s all-around game and Millot’s promising form make them valuable assets. Ultán’s captain choice, Alejandro Grimaldo from Leverkusen (20M, 12%), mirrors Rune’s selection, emphasizing the player’s importance in Fantasy Bundesliga. The remaining midfielders, Mohamed Amoura from Wolfsburg (10M, 12%) and Jonathan Burkardt from Mainz (10M, 3%), provide additional scoring opportunities and balance to the team.
Analysis of Ultán’s Team
Ultán’s team is slightly more focused on players from Mainz and Wolfsburg, indicating his belief in the current form and tactical setup of these teams. The selection of cheaper players like Svensson and Amiri shows a strategic approach to maximize points while staying within budget. Millot’s inclusion adds a bit of unpredictability and potential for a breakout performance. Like Rune, Ultán has chosen Grimaldo as his captain, a testament to the player’s consistent high performance and reliability. The team is well-rounded, with players capable of contributing points from both defensive and attacking roles.
Common Trends and Strategies
Both Rune and Ultán have shown a preference for players from Mainz and RB Leipzig, indicating a strong belief in the performance and tactical stability of these clubs. The selection of Alejandro Grimaldo as captain by both managers highlights his pivotal role in Fantasy Bundesliga, where his dual threat as a defender and playmaker can significantly boost point totals. Both squads also feature players with lower ownership rates, showcasing the managers’ ability to identify undervalued talent and potentially gain an edge over the majority.
Final Thoughts
As Matchday 23 approaches, the selections made by Rune Gjerulff and Ultán Corcoran reflect a deep understanding of the current Bundesliga landscape and the nuances of Fantasy football. Whether you lean towards a balanced approach or take a risk on undervalued players, these squad picks offer valuable insights and potential strategies to consider. The upcoming round promises to be exciting, with each manager hoping their choices will lead to a high-scoring match and a step forward in the Fantasy Bundesliga rankings.
Matchday 23: Key Players to Watch
While Rune and Ultán have made their selections, it’s worth noting a few key players who could make a significant impact on Matchday 23. Players like Grimaldo and Burkardt, who have shown consistent form, are expected to deliver. Additionally, emerging talents like Ngoumou and Millot could surprise with big performances, making them exciting picks for those looking to differentiate their squads. Stay tuned for the matches and see how these players perform, as they could be the difference between a successful Fantasy round and a disappointing one.
