Tijjani Reijnders' Impact on Fantasy Premier League After Debut
Tijjani Reijnders' impressive debut for Manchester City has become a major topic of discussion among Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers. The midfielder, priced at £5.6 million, scored and assisted in City's 4-0 victory over Wolves, earning his owners a valuable 10 points.
With just one gameweek completed and his price remaining low, the question arises: is he already a Fantasy must-have?
FPL expert Gianni Buttice, along with the team from The FPL Podcast by BBC Sport, has engaged in a debate over this week's FPL highlight.
‘You’ve got to have him’ - the case for Reijnders
Statman Dave: Reijnders should definitely be on your radar. If he maintains a starting position for Manchester City throughout the season, he is projected to score at least 10 goals in the Premier League, possibly even 15. He occupies spaces that are ideal for scoring, especially with Kevin de Bruyne out of the picture.
John Acres: If I didn’t have him, I would consider making a move before his price increases. He really seems like a player you must include in your team. By the sixth or seventh gameweek, I expect that everyone will have him.
Gianni Buttice: Prior to Manchester City's pre-season match against Palermo, where Reijnders netted twice in a 45-minute appearance, the Dutch midfielder had an ownership rate of less than 5% in FPL. Heading into this weekend's fixtures, he is now part of one in every three teams.
AC Milan supporters might have been surprised to see Reijnders valued at £5.5 million in FPL. Last season, he was named Serie A's midfielder of the year, contributing 10 goals and five assists for a Milan team that struggled and finished outside of European competition.
‘Be aware of Guardiola rotation’ - the case against
Gianni Buttice: While acquiring Reijnders appears to be a consensus among FPL managers heading into this week, it is important to consider some reasons for caution before making the transfer.
Pep Guardiola is known for his tendency to rotate his attacking players, including midfielders and wingers. Last season, after joining in January, Omar Marmoush started 14 of 16 league matches but was unexpectedly left out of the lineup against Wolves, despite strong performances.
With the Champions League approaching, there are concerns regarding potential rotation for Reijnders, given Guardiola's wealth of midfield options. However, based on his current form and past performance at AC Milan, it seems likely that Reijnders will continue to deliver strong displays.