Fantasy Premier League: The Matheus Cunha Conundrum
Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers have faced a tumultuous week as several key players have been sidelined. One of the most significant blows comes from Matheus Cunha, the dynamic Wolves forward who was sent off during Wolves’ FA Cup exit at Bournemouth for repeatedly lashing out at Milos Kerkez. This red card triggers a mandatory three-match ban, leaving Cunha unavailable for Wolves’ upcoming fixtures against Everton, Southampton, and West Ham. With 13 goals and four assists to his name this season, Cunha’s absence is a major setback for FPL managers. As the deadline for Gameweek 28 looms, many are scrambling to find suitable replacements within their budget. Here are some top contenders.
Yoane Wissa – Brentford (£6.4m)
Brentford’s Yoane Wissa has been a consistent performer this season, forming a formidable partnership with Bryan Mbeumo. Together, they have combined for 28 Premier League goals, all while maintaining a combined value of just £14.5m. Wissa is a guaranteed starter for Thomas Frank’s side and has found the back of the net in his last two league games. Brentford’s upcoming schedule includes challenging matches against Aston Villa (H), Bournemouth (A), and Newcastle (A). However, for those managers not planning to use a chip in Gameweek 29, Brentford’s blank in that gameweek could be a strategic advantage.
Joao Pedro – Brighton (£5.4m)
Joao Pedro is currently the form forward in FPL, having returned 20 points in his last two appearances. Brighton’s striker has already notched seven goals and six assists this season, making him a valuable asset. Pedro is also Brighton’s first-choice penalty taker, adding an extra layer of reliability to his performances. Brighton’s next opponent is Fulham, a match that takes place this weekend, providing an immediate opportunity for Pedro to make an impact. His current price of £5.4m makes him an excellent value pick for FPL managers.
Eddie Nketiah – Crystal Palace (£5.9m)
For managers looking to gain an edge with a differential pick, Eddie Nketiah could be the answer. Despite a challenging transition to Crystal Palace, the £30m recruit has shown signs of improvement. Nketiah’s path to a starting role has been cleared after Jean-Philippe Mateta suffered a severe head injury in the FA Cup. The 25-year-old has scored in his last two appearances as a substitute for Palace, a team that is currently in good form. Crystal Palace will face Ipswich Town, a relegation-threatened side, at Selhurst Park this weekend. However, be aware that Palace will blank in Gameweek 29.
Jorgen Strand Larsen – Wolves (£5.2m)
For those seeking a like-for-like replacement, Jorgen Strand Larsen is an intriguing option. Wolves’ upcoming fixtures against teams no higher than 15th in the league provide an enticing run of games. Despite being overshadowed by Cunha, Larsen has been a reliable contributor to the club’s campaign this season. The 25-year-old Norwegian has seven league goals and leads the Premier League in the percentage of shots on target (63.9%). With Cunha out, the pressure is on Larsen to step up and fill the void.
Darwin Nunez – Liverpool (£7.0m)
Darwin Nunez has been a hit-or-miss choice for many FPL managers, but his recent performance suggests he might be worth another look. Nunez was lively off the bench in Liverpool’s recent match against PSG, setting up Harvey Elliott’s winning goal. With Cody Gakpo injured and other key players like Luis Diaz, Mohamed Salah, and Diogo Jota possibly receiving rest, Nunez could have a significant role to play this weekend. Owned by just 1.9% of managers, Nunez offers a differential opportunity for those planning to use a chip in Gameweek 29. Liverpool’s home match against bottom-of-the-table Southampton at Anfield presents an excellent chance for Nunez to shine.
Strategic Considerations and Final Thoughts
Choosing the right replacement for Matheus Cunha involves balancing immediate impact with long-term potential. Yoane Wissa and Joao Pedro offer immediate value and form, while Eddie Nketiah and Jorgen Strand Larsen provide potential for significant gains. Darwin Nunez, despite his mixed record, could be a differential pick for those willing to take a calculated risk. As always, consider your team’s specific needs and the broader context of the upcoming gameweeks to make the best possible decision.
