As Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers gear up for the 2024/25 season, a significant development has caught the attention of seasoned and novice players alike. Several key assets have undergone position reclassifications, potentially altering their value and impact in the game. This blog delves into six notable players who have switched positions, exploring the implications for FPL managers and how these changes might influence team selection strategies.
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Kai Havertz's reclassification from midfielder to forward reflects his evolving role at Arsenal. In the 2023/24 season, Havertz proved his worth with an impressive 180 points, netting 13 goals and providing 10 assists. His consistent performance, evidenced by 2,640 minutes played, makes him a tempting option at £8.0m. However, the position change means he'll no longer receive an extra point for goals scored or clean sheet bonuses, potentially impacting his overall FPL value.
As indicated by the Opta Player Heatmaps tool, Havertz was active in various attacking positions. However, as the season progressed, he primarily played as a center forward. His total of 69 shots was surpassed only by teammates Ødegaard (77) and Saka (107) last season.
Christopher Nkunku's move from forward to midfielder category could be a game-changer for FPL managers. Despite limited playing time last season (438 minutes), Nkunku managed 3 goals and 29 points. His reclassification as a midfielder, coupled with a modest £6.5m price tag, makes him an enticing option. The potential for extra points from goals and clean sheets could see Nkunku emerge as a popular mid-priced midfield choice.
Using the Opta Stats Sandbox and filtering for Chelsea midfielder stats with a minimum of 4 games played in the 2023/24 season, Nkunku ranks third in FPL points per 90 minutes (5.96). He is surpassed only by Madueke (6.50) and Palmer (8.37).
Ian Maatsen's shift from midfielder to defender at Aston Villa opens up interesting possibilities. While his 2023/24 season was limited with only 201 minutes played and 11 points scored, his new classification as a defender could make him an attractive budget option. Clean sheet points and the potential for attacking returns make Maatsen an intriguing prospect at £5.0m, especially if he secures regular playing time.
Antoine Semenyo's reclassification from forward to midfielder could significantly boost his FPL appeal. In the 2023/24 season, Semenyo accumulated 107 points with 8 goals and 4 assists over 2,112 minutes. As a midfielder, he'll now earn an extra point for goals scored and clean sheet bonuses, potentially increasing his point-scoring potential. At £5.5m, he could represent excellent value in the midfield category.
Richarlison's shift from midfielder to forward aligns with his role at Tottenham. Last season, he notched 11 goals and 4 assists, accumulating 122 points in 1,492 minutes. While he loses the extra point for goals and clean sheet bonuses, his consistent goal-scoring threat makes him an interesting option at £7.0m. FPL managers will need to weigh his potential returns against other forward options in this price range.
Timo Werner's reclassification from forward to midfielder could revitalise his FPL prospects. Despite limited impact last season (46 points, 2 goals, 4 assists in 814 minutes) as he signed partway through, his new position offers increased point-scoring potential. At £6.5m, Werner could be a differential pick if he secures a regular starting role and capitalises on the additional points available to midfielders.
Using the Fix Comparison Matrix tool for attacking stats per match in the 2023/24 season, Richarlison outperformed Werner in FPL points and goals. However, the German was more creative, recording more FPL assists. FPL managers should keep an eye on Spurs' transfer activity and preseason team setup to determine if either player could be a viable option for the 2024/25 season.
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