In preparation for Gameweek 24 of the Fantasy Premier League, avid fans eagerly await insights from pre-match press conferences, with 14 scheduled for Friday and 6 already concluded earlier in the week.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of team news, injury updates, and anticipated lineups for all 20 Premier League teams, offering crucial insights for FPL managers.
Arsenal
Arsenal’s latest team news indicates that Thomas Partey and Jurrien Timber remain sidelined due to muscle and knee injuries respectively. Manager Mikel Arteta provided limited clarity on the availability of Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko, who is dealing with knee and calf issues respectively. Jesus was initially expected to be out for only a few days but missed the recent match against Liverpool, while Zinchenko was withdrawn during that game due to muscular discomfort.
However, Arteta expressed optimism regarding Bukayo Saka’s condition despite him sustaining a knock in Gameweek 23. With Takehiro Tomiyasu back from international duty, Arteta has an option at left-back if Zinchenko’s fitness is in doubt, with Jakub Kiwior as an alternative. Regarding tactical decisions, Arteta may consider incorporating Eddie Nketiah or Gabriel Jesus (if fit) in the attack, potentially replacing Kai Havertz, who played as a makeshift center-forward in the previous game. Additionally, Emile Smith Rowe could feature in midfield instead of Jorginho, who started in the win against Liverpool but might be rotated for tactical reasons.
Predicted XI: Raya, Martin, White (Ben), Saliba, Gabriel, Tomiyasu, Odegaard, Jorginho, Rice, Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa‘s Ezra Konsa will be out for three to four weeks due to a knee injury, while Jhon Duran, Tyrone Mings, and Emi Buendia remain long-term absentees. Lucas Digne has returned to training and could feature against Manchester United. Pau Torres and Nicolo Zaniolo are recovering but may not start due to recent absences. Leon Bailey’s role may be impacted by Konsa’s injury, and Jacob Ramsey could boost the midfield’s energy against United.
Predicted XI: Martinez, Cash, Diego Carlos, Lenglet, Álex Moreno, McGinn, Kamara, Douglas Luiz, Jacob Ramsey, Diaby, Watkins.
Bournemouth
The Cherries Bournemouth will be missing several key players including Max Aarons, James Hill, Tyler Adams, and Ryan Fredericks due to various injuries. Additionally, Philip Billing starts a three-match ban after his dismissal in Gameweek 23. The defensive lineup and midfield seem settled, but there’s uncertainty in the attacking midfield positions.
Marcus Tavernier, Dango Ouattara, Luis Sinisterra, and Antoine Semenyo are competing for wide roles, while Justin Kluivert and Alex Scott vie for the spot behind Dominic Solanke. Romain Faivre adds another dimension with his versatility. Manager Andoni Iraola often rotates this area during matches, keeping it dynamic.
Predicted XI: Neto (Murara), Smith (Adam), Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kelly, Christie, Cook (Lewis), Tavernier, Kluivert, Sinisterra, Solanke.
Brentford
Brentford‘s injury list grows with Josh Dasilva requiring surgery for a knee injury sustained in training, joining Bryan Mbeumo, Aaron Hickey, Kevin Schade, and Rico Henry on the sidelines. Yoane Wissa and Frank Onyeka remain unavailable due to international duty, but Saman Ghoddos should return after Iran’s exit from the Asian Cup.
Manager Thomas Frank might consider a switch to a 4-3-3 formation, potentially bringing in Kristoffer Ajer at right-back, but the impressive form of Ivan Toney and Neal Maupay suggests they’ll stick with a wing-back system. Adjustments within the 3-5-2 are possible, with Ghoddos and Keane Lewis-Potter as wing-back options and Mikkel Damsgaard, Shandon Baptiste, and Yehor Yarmoliuk available in midfield. An unchanged lineup remains the most probable scenario.
Predicted XI: Flekken, Collins, Pinnock, Mee, Roerslev, Jensen, Norgaard, Janelt, Reguilón, Toney, Maupay.
Brighton and Hove Albion
Joao Pedro of Brighton and Hove Albion will be out due to a hamstring injury, sidelining him for an extended period. Solly March remains unavailable with a knee issue, while Simon Adingra is still away at AFCON. However, Joel Veltman and Julio Enciso have returned to training, although match fitness remains a concern. Kauro Mitoma is back from the Asian Cup, but his involvement against Spurs is uncertain due to limited playing time during the tournament.
With Ansu Fati and Adam Lallana also returning from injury, there’s speculation about who will replace Pedro. Pascal Gross may play a more advanced role, while Carlos Baleba or Jack Hinshelwood could feature in midfield. Tariq Lamptey’s strong performance may impact Pervis Estupinan’s return, while Bart Verbruggen’s place in goal is not guaranteed despite his recent appearance in the A23 derby.
Predicted XI: Verbruggen, Van Hecke, Dunk, Igor Julio, Hinshelwood, Baleba, Gilmour, Lamptey, Buonanotte, Gros, Ferguson (Evan).
Burnley
Vincent Kompany appears optimistic about the recovery of Hannes Delcroix and Charlie Taylor, but it’s uncertain if they’ll be fit for Burnley‘s upcoming match. Despite this uncertainty, changes to the Burnley lineup are expected, with new signings Maxime Esteve and David Datro Fofana pushing for inclusion after impressing in the last game.
Hjalmar Ekdal and possibly Zeki Amdouni could make way to accommodate the January signings. Additionally, Johann Berg Gudmundsson may return to the starting lineup, possibly replacing Aaron Ramsey. Long-term absentees Luca Koleosho and Nathan Redmond remain sidelined, while Jordan Beyer’s status is unclear as he wasn’t mentioned in the manager’s updates on Taylor and Delcroix.
Predicted XI: Trafford, Assignon, O’Shea, Esteve, Taylor, Gudmundsson, Berge, Brownhill, Odobert, Fofana, Foster.
Chelsea
The Blues continues to grapple with injury concerns as Romeo Lavia, Lesley Ugochukwu, Reece James, Marc Cucurella, and Wesley Fofana remain sidelined. Robert Sanchez has partially returned to training as he progresses in his recovery from a knee issue, while Trevoh Chalobah awaits medical clearance after resuming training recently.
Benoit Badiashile faces a scan after sustaining a muscle injury, potentially leaving Thiago Silva as the likely replacement in central defense, with Levi Colwill possibly returning from a short-term absence. Despite these defensive uncertainties, Chelsea is expected to maintain continuity following their impressive win against Aston Villa. However, Christopher Nkunku could come into contention for Noni Madueke, although the performances of Conor Gallagher and Nicolas Jackson may impact the prospects of Raheem Sterling and Mykhailo Mudryk in the starting lineup.
Predicted XI: Petrovic, Gusto, Thiago Silva, Disasi, Chilwell, Moises Caicedo, Fernández, Madueke, Gallagher, Jackson, Palmer.
Crystal Palace
Roy Hodgson, Crystal Palace manager confirmed four injury setbacks during Thursday’s press conference, ruling Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi, and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi out of the upcoming clash with Chelsea. They join Cheick Doucoure and Rob Holding as long-term absentees, although Joel Ward has returned to training, providing a glimmer of positive news.
Hodgson mentioned the potential for Matheus Franca and Naouirou Ahamada to step up in the absence of Eze and Olise, but he may opt for experienced options like Jeffrey Schlupp and Jordan Ayew on the wings. New signing Adam Wharton could feature in midfield, while Chris Richards might be required to cover for Guehi in central defense, although James Tomkins is another option at center-back if Hodgson prefers to keep Richards in midfield. With Daniel Munoz now competing with Ward for the right-back spot, Hodgson has some decisions to make regarding his lineup.
Predicted XI: Henderson (Dean), Muñoz, Andersen, Richards (Chris), Mitchell, Lerma, Adam Wharton, Ayew (Jordan), Hughes, Schlupp, Mateta.
Also Read: Best Goalkeeper Picks in FPL Gameweek 24
Everton
Amadou Onana of Everton could make a return to the squad for the Manchester City clash as he resumes training after a knee injury. Ben Godfrey’s substitution in the previous game was due to cramp, indicating he’s fit. However, manager Sean Dyche confirmed Arnaut Danjuma, Andre Gomes, and Abdoulaye Doucoure will remain unavailable, with Dele Alli out long-term due to a groin injury.
Seamus Coleman may return at right-back after a cameo appearance last weekend, with Godfrey, Nathan Patterson, and Ashley Young also options for that position. Dyche could opt for a conservative 5-4-1 formation with Godfrey and Michael Keane as potential center-back options. The decision to include Onana may influence Young’s role, potentially allowing Jack Harrison to move to the wing.
Predicted XI: Pickford, Coleman, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko, Young, Garner, Gueye, McNeil, Harrison, Calvert-Lewin.
Fulham
Raul Jimenez of Fulham faces continued injury concerns and is expected to remain sidelined for at least another month due to a hamstring issue, with Kenny Tete also out due to a minor Achilles injury. Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey are unavailable due to international duty, while Issa Diop’s fitness status is uncertain after not being mentioned by manager Marco Silva. However, Armando Broja is fit despite a knock, and both Harry Wilson and Adama Traore are set to return after recent spells out.
The midfield selection between Harrison Reed and Tom Cairney remains a significant decision, while Bobby DeCordova-Reid may retain his spot on the wing with Wilson returning. Silva explained that Broja’s absence from the starting lineup in the previous game was due to limited training time with his new teammates, but Rodrigo Muniz’s goal-scoring performance may earn him another chance in attack.
Predicted XI: Leno, Castagne, Tosin, Ream, Robinson, João Palhinha, Reed, De Cordova-Reid, Pereira, Willian, Rodrigo Muniz.
Liverpool
Liverpool faces several key absences ahead of their match against Burnley. Mohamed Salah and Conor Bradley are both unavailable, with Salah nursing a hamstring injury and Bradley on compassionate leave. Dominik Szoboszlai remains sidelined with a hamstring issue, while Thiago Alcantara is undergoing assessment for a muscle injury.
Stefan Bajcetic, Ben Doak, and Joel Matip are also out, and Ibrahima Konate is suspended following his dismissal in the previous game. Additionally, some players have been affected by flu this week, potentially impacting team selection. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Andrew Robertson, and Jarell Quansah are likely to feature in defense alongside Virgil van Dijk, while the front three from Gameweeks 21 and 22 are expected to reunite in Salah’s absence.
Cody Gakpo provides an alternative option, with Ryan Gravenberch likely to be omitted from the lineup. Harvey Elliott and Alexis Mac Allister are available on the right side of midfield, with Endo potentially stepping into a deeper role if Mac Allister is moved.
Predicted XI: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson, Elliott, Mac Allister, Jones (Curtis), Diogo Jota, Núñez, Díaz.
Luton Town
Luton Town continues to deal with several absences as Marvelous Nakamba, Tom Lockyer, and Mads Andersen remain sidelined. New signing Daiki Hashioka is still adjusting to the squad and won’t be involved this weekend. Teden Mengi picked up an ankle knock in training, making Reece Burke a potential replacement if needed.
Manager Rob Edwards may stick with the same lineup that performed well in recent games, with Andros Townsend and Jacob Brown available as options. Issa Kabore could be recalled after returning from international duty, potentially allowing Chiedozie Ogbene to move forward into the front three. Given the team’s recent performances, it’s unlikely that Edwards will make any changes unless necessary.
Predicted XI: Kaminski, Burke, Osho, Bell, Ogbene, Barkley, Sambi Lokonga, Doughty, Clark, Morris, Adebayo.
Manchester City
Manchester City enjoys the luxury of a fully fit squad ahead of their upcoming fixtures. Pep Guardiola provided no indication of any fitness concerns following their recent win against Brentford. Guardiola’s tactical decisions remain unpredictable, especially with a fully fit roster. However, considering the opposition’s defensive setup, he may opt for tactics similar to those employed in Gameweek 23.
This could involve deploying Phil Foden in a wider role with Julian Alvarez and Ilkay Gundogan providing support to Erling Haaland in attack. Guardiola has previously favored a three-man defense against teams like Everton, who pose a threat in the air and may consider John Stones or Manuel Akanji for this purpose. Jeremy Doku could be reintroduced to offer width if needed. It’s worth noting that with an eye on the upcoming Champions League clash with Copenhagen, Guardiola may manage the minutes of key players even if they start the game.
Predicted XI: Ederson, Walker, Rúben Dias, Aké, Stones, Rodri, De Bruyne, Álvarez, Foden, Haaland, Doku.
Manchester United
Manchester United has been hit with several injury setbacks ahead of their upcoming fixtures. Lisandro Martinez joins Anthony Martial on the sidelines after being ruled out for eight weeks due to a knee injury sustained in Gameweek 23. Additionally, Tyrell Malacia and Mason Mount will miss out, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s availability remains uncertain after he pulled out of training. Despite the recent momentum from consecutive wins, there is likely to be only one enforced change to the starting XI at center-back.
Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane are favored to continue as the center-back partnership, with Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof as alternatives. Luke Shaw could also feature, although Wan-Bissaka’s potential absence limits options at full-back. Scott McTominay, Sofyan Amrabat, and Christian Eriksen are expected to be on the bench due to the good form of Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro. Antony may also find himself among the substitutes with Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho firmly established on the wings.
Predicted XI: Onana, Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Shaw, Mainoo, Casemiro, Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, Rashford, Højlund.
Newcastle United
The Magpies Newcastle United continues to contend with a string of absentees ahead of their upcoming fixture. Alexander Isak remains sidelined with a groin injury, joining Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Nick Pope, Joe Willock, Elliot Anderson, and Matt Targett on the injury list. Anthony Gordon is a major doubt after sustaining an ankle injury, although there’s hope for his return in the near future.
Manager Eddie Howe indicated that Callum Wilson is ready to lead the attack in Isak’s absence, while Dan Burn is likely to retain his place at left-back. The final spot in the lineup could depend on the readiness of Harvey Barnes, who is returning from a toe injury. Miguel Almiron and Jacob Murphy may start on the flanks, with Barnes potentially introduced later in the game. There’s no update on Jamaal Lascelles, who was expected to return soon but missed the previous match.
Predicted XI: Dubravka, Trippier, Schär, Botman, Burn, Longstaff (Sean), Bruno Guimarães, Miley, Murphy (Jacob), Wilson (Callum), Almirón
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest faces several injury and availability concerns ahead of their upcoming fixture. Gonzalo Montiel and Chris Wood are sidelined due to hamstring injuries, while Morgan Gibbs-White’s status is uncertain after experiencing pain and discomfort. Additionally, Ibrahim Sangaré, Willy Boly, and Ola Aina remain on international duty. However, Cheikhou Kouyaté, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Divock Origi returned to action in the FA Cup after respective absences.
Most of the players from the Gameweek 23 starting XI are expected to return, with Ryan Yates, Nicolas Dominguez, Matz Sels, and Murillo absent for various reasons during the cup match. Taiwo Awoniyi, Anthony Elanga, and Hudson-Odoi played limited minutes in the FA Cup, while Danilo and new signing Gio Reyna could feature in the number 10 role if Gibbs-White is unavailable.
Predicted XI: Sels, Williams (Neco), Omobamidele, Murillo, Nuno Tavares, Yates, Nicolás Domínguez, Elanga, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi, Awoniyi.
Sheffield United
Sheffield United is dealing with several injury concerns and player availability issues before their upcoming match. Goalkeeper Ivo Grbic remains sidelined due to a head injury and is still undergoing concussion protocol. Chris Wilder provided minimal team news, only mentioning “bumps and bruises.” However, Rhian Brewster returns from suspension, while Chris Basham and John Egan remain sidelined with leg injuries.
Max Lowe and George Baldock are nearing returns based on their previous recovery timelines, but Oli McBurnie was not risked in the last match due to a calf injury. Will Osula and Cameron Archer be potential options upfront if McBurnie is unavailable. There could be changes in midfield, with Gus Hamer, Oli Norwood, Ben Osborn, and Tom Davies all possibilities for inclusion after being substitutes in the previous match.
Wilder hinted at the possibility of introducing more experienced players after expressing concerns about youth and inexperience following the last defeat. Anel Ahmedhodzic, Rhys Norrington-Davies, and Auston Trusty could face being dropped from the starting lineup, with Jack Robinson potentially returning after being omitted from the previous match’s starting XI.
Predicted XI: Foderingham, Bogle, Holgate, Robinson, Trusty, Hamer, Vinicius Souza, Davies (Tom), McAtee, McBurnie, Brereton.
Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur has received positive news on the injury front, with Giovani Lo Celso returning to training and possibly featuring in the upcoming match. Manor Solomon and Ryan Sessegnon remain sidelined due to injury. Additionally, Son Heung-min and Yves Bissouma have returned from international duty. They are deemed ready to start by manager Ange Postecoglou, although concerns exist about Son’s recent heavy workload for South Korea.
Changes are expected on both flanks following a below-par performance against Everton, with Dejan Kulusevski pushing for a recall. Brennan Johnson and Timo Werner could be at risk, while Richarlison is likely to retain his central role. The absence of Pape Matar Sarr and Bissouma in midfield might see Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Rodrigo Bentancur dropping out of the starting lineup. Overall, the lineup appears close to Postecoglou’s preferred XI, with questions remaining about the returning internationals’ match readiness.
Predicted XI: Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Destiny Udogie, Sarr, Bissouma, Maddison, Kulusevski, Richarlison, Son.
West Ham United
West Ham United continues to face injury and fitness concerns ahead of their upcoming match. Lucas Paquetá remains sidelined with a calf injury, while Michail Antonio, although back in training, is still not considered match fit. There’s no update on Alphonse Areola, suggesting he is likely available for selection. Manager David Moyes hinted at another benching for Kalvin Phillips, who struggled in his debut last weekend, indicating that the midfielder needs more time to adjust.
Despite the defeat at Old Trafford, Moyes expressed contentment with the team’s performance, suggesting he may stick with the same lineup against Arsenal. Danny Ings and Maxwel Cornet remain potential options for a recall, but if changes are made, it’s more likely to involve Konstantinos Mavropanos or Angelo Ogbonna coming in as a third center-back, possibly resulting in a shift to a 5-4-1 or 3-5-2 formation with Ben Johnson making way.
Predicted XI: Areola, Coufal, Zouma, Aguerd, Emerson, Álvarez, Soucek, Johnson (Ben), Ward-Prowse, Kudus, Bowen.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolverhampton Wanderers have a fully fit squad ahead of their next match after their impressive victory at Stamford Bridge. Boubacar Traore and Hwang Hee–chan have returned from international duty, adding to the team’s available options. While there were some minor illnesses earlier in the week, everyone trained on Friday, giving manager Gary O’Neil some selection headaches.
O’Neil mentioned that Hwang is “ready to start” after his return from Asia, but it would be tough to displace Pablo Sarabia, who performed well in the win against Chelsea. Hwang may be considered a substitute option, with O’Neil describing him as “a fantastic option whether that be from the start or from the bench.” Jeanricner Bellegarde, Tommy Doyle, Matt Doherty, and Hugo Bueno are likely to be among the substitutes unless there are any late injuries.
Predicted XI: José Sá, Kilman, Dawson, Toti, Semedo, Lemina, João Gomes, Ait Nouri, Sarabia, Neto (Pedro), Matheus Cunha.
Also Read: FPL Tips: Top XI for your Fantasy Premier League Team | Gameweek 24