Fantasy Premier League: Expert Tips and Team News for Gameweek Five - (2025)

Updated: 21/12/2025

Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers are gearing up for the excitement of gameweek five, with expert tips and team news provided by renowned FPL specialist Gianni Buttice. As the deadline for gameweek five approaches on Saturday at 11:00 BST, managers are seeking valuable insights to optimize their squads for the upcoming fixtures. Gianni Buttice, with a track record of impressive FPL finishes, is here to unravel the secrets to a successful FPL season.

Let's delve into the crucial information and key discussions surrounding FPL ahead of gameweek five.

Team News and Player Updates

As FPL managers strategize their next moves, keeping abreast of team news and player updates is paramount. Here are some notable absences and doubts for key players:

• Liverpool v Everton: Doubts for Jarrad Branthwaite and Vitalii Mykolenko.
• Brighton v Spurs: Doubt surrounding Maxim De Cuyper's availability.
• Wolves v Leeds: Leeds facing doubts with Dan James and Willy Gnonto.
• West Ham v Crystal Palace: Absence of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and doubts linger over Walter Benitez and Ismaila Sarr.
• Man United v Chelsea: Manchester United without Diogo Dalot and Lisandro Martinez.
• Arsenal v Man City: Arsenal potential absentees include Ben White, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard, while Man City's Rodri faces doubts.

Amidst the uncertainties revolving around player availability, FPL managers must carefully navigate their team selections to maximize points.

Weekend Fixtures for Gameweek Five

Gameweek five is set to ignite the Premier League with compelling matchups scheduled for the upcoming weekend:

• Saturday: Liverpool v Everton (12:30), Brighton v Spurs (15:00), Burnley v Nottingham Forest (15:00), West Ham v Crystal Palace (15:00), Wolves v Leeds (15:00), Man United v Chelsea (17:30), Fulham v Brentford (20:00).
• Sunday: Bournemouth v Newcastle (14:00), Sunderland v Aston Villa (14:00), Arsenal v Man City (16:30).

FPL managers must carefully consider these fixtures while crafting their squads, aiming to capitalize on potential points across the weekend slate.

Expert Insights and Strategies

Gianni Buttice, the FPL expert, shares valuable insights and strategies geared towards enhancing FPL performance:

“If you can find the money for Cole Palmer then he is obviously their best asset but Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto are looking sharp too,” Buttice advises when pondering midfield options.

When faced with the dilemma of selecting between defenders Pedro Porro and Dan Burn, Buttice acknowledges the fine margins between the two players, highlighting their unique strengths.

As FPL managers wrestle with decisions on player transfers and captaincy choices, Gianni Buttice's expertise offers a guiding light through the intricate landscape of Fantasy Premier League.

BBC Sport's Team of the Week

The BBC Sport's team of the week is crafted based on current FPL prices, adhering to a £100m budget as if playing a Free Hit. The featured squad reflects the top performers from the previous gameweek, providing managers with potential players to consider for their own lineups.

Conclusion

With FPL enthusiasts eagerly anticipating gameweek five, the blend of expert advice, player updates, and fixture insights sets the stage for an exhilarating weekend of fantasy football action. As managers carefully tinker with their squads, the guidance provided by specialists like Gianni Buttice serves as a beacon, steering teams towards success in the dynamic realm of Fantasy Premier League.

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