As the new Fantasy Premier League season kicks off, one position remains the heartbeat of every squad: the forwards. Whether you’re chasing explosive hauls, reliable returns, or budget enablers, picking the right strikers can make or break your early momentum. With fixture difficulty ratings (FDR), xG trends, and tactical shifts all in play, here’s a breakdown of the top forward options for Gameweeks 1–6.
🧨 Erling Haaland (£14.0m – Man City)
Let’s start with the obvious. Despite a “quiet” 2024/25 campaign by his standards, Haaland still topped the charts for xG per 90 and shots on target. He opens the season against Wolves and Spurs — both of whom ranked in the bottom five for goals conceded last year. With penalties, near-guaranteed minutes, and a history of early-season hat-tricks, Haaland remains the most explosive captaincy option. The only downside? His price tag. But if you’re not starting with him, you’ll need a very strong reason — and a very brave heart.
🔥 Aleksander Isak (£10.5m – Newcastle)
Isak was last season’s top-scoring forward with 211 points. He’s nailed, on penalties, and plays a central role in Newcastle’s attack. While his opening fixtures are mixed — Villa (A), Liverpool (H), Leeds (A), Wolves (H), Bournemouth (A), Arsenal (H) — the middle stretch offers real upside. Isak’s price hike reflects his growing influence, and if he stays at Newcastle amid transfer rumors, he’s a premium pick with differential potential.
🚀 Ollie Watkins (£9.0m – Aston Villa)
Watkins continues to be one of the most consistent forwards in FPL. He’s a minutes monster, rarely rotated, and contributes across goals and assists. Villa’s fixture run includes Everton, Brentford, and Forest, all teams that struggled defensively last season. Watkins also benefits from Villa’s strong home form and lack of Champions League distractions. If you’re looking for a reliable second forward to pair with Haaland, Watkins is your man.
⚡ Hugo Ekitike (£8.5m – Liverpool)
Liverpool’s new signing arrives with serious pedigree: 15 goals and 8 assists in the Bundesliga, plus top-five non-penalty xG across Europe. He’s expected to start centrally in Arne Slot’s attacking setup, which could unlock his full potential. Fixtures are mixed early on — Bournemouth (H), Newcastle (A), Arsenal (H), Burnley (A), Everton (H), Palace (A) — but GW4–5 look promising. If he settles quickly, Ekitike could be this season’s breakout star.
🎯 Joao Pedro (£7.5m – Chelsea)
Pedro is a wildcard pick with high upside. Chelsea’s fluid attacking setup under Maresca could suit his movement and finishing, and he’s a strong candidate for penalties when on the pitch. The Blues face Brentford, Luton, and Bournemouth in the first six — all favorable matchups. Pedro’s minutes may be volatile early on, but if he nails down a starting role, he’s a mid-priced gem with breakout potential.
🧱 Budget Enablers & Differentials
If you’re going heavy in midfield or defense, you’ll need budget forwards who offer value without compromising upside.
- Yoane Wissa (£7.5m – Brentford): Often overlooked, Wissa has a knack for popping up with goals. Brentford’s fixtures are decent, and he’s nailed in a front two.
- Chris Wood (£7.5m – Forest): A physical presence with set-piece threat, Wood is a differential with favorable fixtures early on.
- Viktor Gyokeres (£7.5m – Arsenal): If he starts regularly, Gyokeres could be a steal. Arsenal’s early fixtures are strong, and he’s shown sharpness in preseason.
🧠 Strategy Tips
- Start with two premium forwards if you’re skipping Salah or going light in midfield.
- Monitor minutes closely in GW1–2 — rotation risk is high for new signings.
- Use the eye test: Stats are great, but watching how players link up and move can reveal hidden gems.
- Wildcard window: Consider a squad structure that lets you pivot around GW7–8 when fixtures shift.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The forward pool in FPL 2025/26 is rich with options from the ever-reliable Haaland to emerging stars like Ekitike and Pedro. Your choice should reflect not just fixtures and form, but how you want to structure your squad. Are you chasing early hauls? Banking on consistency? Or hunting for differentials to climb the ranks?
Whatever your strategy, make sure your strikers are locked, loaded, and ready to fire. Because in FPL, goals win games — and forwards win leagues.
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