FPL Injuries: Who Are the Injured Players Ahead of Fantasy Premier League Gameweek 1 - FPL 2026-27

The 2026-27 Premier League campaign is finally here, and fantasy managers across the globe are making last-minute adjustments to their squads. Keeping track of FPL Injuries is one of the most critical steps before locking in your initial fifteen-man roster.

Unforeseen setbacks from pre-season training and summer fixtures can ruin the best plans before a single ball is kicked. Staying updated on Fantasy Premier League Injuries ensures you do not waste precious early transfers or take unnecessary point deductions in the opening week of the Premier League.

Key Defensive Concerns Ahead of the Deadline

Some defenders are already causing selection headaches across the fantasy community. Every manager wants a sturdy backline, but early physical setbacks are forcing quick tactical rethinks for opening drafts.

William Saliba (Arsenal)

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces defensive reshuffling after William Saliba sustained a back issue during recent preparations. The French center-back is a regular fantasy favorite due to Arsenal's solid clean sheet potential, but this FPL injury makes him a major doubt for the opening fixture against Coventry City. Fantasy managers should monitor late updates closely or consider alternative premium options.

Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)

Adding to the defensive puzzle for Arsenal, Jurrien Timber is dealing with an ankle problem that could keep him sidelined for the opening round. His absence removes an affordable route into the Gunners' defense.

With multiple defensive FPL Injuries hitting the squad simultaneously, pivoting to alternative full-backs is the safest strategy for Gameweek 1.

Midfield Fitness Tests and Late Checks

Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton)

Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma is battling a hamstring complaint that has limited his participation in pre-season drills and is part of the FPL injury list.

The dynamic attacker usually offers exceptional value and direct threat down the flank, but his fitness remains uncertain. Rushing him into your opening squad carries risk while he continues to manage this minor muscle issue.

Jeremy Doku (Manchester City)

Manchester City speedster Jeremy Doku picked up a knock during the Community Shield clash against Arsenal, leaving him with calf discomfort. His availability for the first gameweek is under scrutiny; FPL managers should be careful enough to include him in the playing XI.

Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham Hotspur)

Tottenham Hotspur playmaker Dejan Kulusevski is facing a late fitness test ahead of Gameweek 1 due to an ongoing knee problem.

Known for his creative threat and ability to rack up assists from open play, Kulusevski would normally be an appealing mid-priced midfield asset. However, managing this issue right up to the deadline makes starting him an unnecessary gamble for the first week.

Major Absences and Attackers Sidelined

Yankuba Minteh (Brighton)

Brighton suffered a major setback with Yankuba Minteh picking up a significant leg problem that will sideline him for several weeks. The promising winger was on many fantasy radars after strong pre-season displays, but managers must look elsewhere for budget attacking power.

Amadou Onana (Aston Villa)

Aston Villa will be without midfielder Amadou Onana after he sustained a severe knee problem that could rule him out for an extended period. His long-term absence forces changes in Villa's central midfield and alters the team's overall defensive stability.

Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool)

Liverpool attacker Hugo Ekitike has been ruled out of the opening fixtures after suffering an Achilles injury during summer preparations. The forward was expected to play a central attacking role in Liverpool's frontline this season, but this severe setback leaves fantasy managers needing to redirect their premium forward budget toward fully fit strikers elsewhere.