FPL Experts: What to do with Bukayo Saka

Fantasy Premier League (FPL) experts weigh in on the dilemma surrounding Arsenal midfielder Bukayo Saka, who has struggled to perform in recent weeks. Despite being one of the most-owned players in FPL, Saka has failed to deliver significant returns, registering just one goal in the last six Gameweeks. 

His lackluster form has led over 101,000 managers to transfer him out of their teams, but he remains in more than 62 percent of squads. With only 18 points in the last six Gameweeks, Saka currently ranks joint-40th among midfielders. The experts discuss potential strategies and decisions for FPL managers grappling with Saka’s underwhelming performances.

Let’s have a look at what Scout’s panel recommendations are on how to optimize your Fantasy Premier League lineup with Bukayo Saka.

What to do with Bukayo Saka ahead of your FPL plans

Utkarsh Dalmia (@ZopharFPL)

According to FPL expert Utkarsh Dalmia (@ZopharFPL), while Bukayo Saka’s underlying statistics have improved compared to earlier in the season, his recent lack of returns is a concern. Saka himself has acknowledged the increased difficulty he’s facing, with opposing teams frequently doubling up on him. Dalmia suggests selling Saka, pointing out that there are more appealing and explosive midfield options available, such as Diogo Jota (£7.9m) and Richarlison (£7.0m). Therefore, his advice is to part ways with Saka in favour of these potentially more rewarding alternatives.

Lee Bonfield (@FPLFamily)

FPL expert Lee Bonfield (@FPLFamily) suggests that while there are several appealing alternatives available, selling Bukayo Saka may not be an immediate priority. Bonfield notes a dip in Saka’s performance since he missed the Gameweek 8 match against Manchester City due to injury. Since then, Saka has managed to achieve six or more points in a Gameweek on only four occasions, with no double-digit hauls. While acknowledging other good options, Bonfield sees selling Saka as a possibility rather than a necessity, leaving room for managers to assess their priorities before making a decision.

Also Read: Why FPL managers must plan for Blank Gameweek 26?

Pranil Sheth (@Lateriser12)

According to FPL expert Pranil Sheth (@Lateriser12), there are positive signs for Bukayo Saka, as he observed Saka adopting more central positions than usual in the recent match against Crystal Palace. Sheth advises FPL managers not to rush into selling Saka, emphasizing that he is not an immediate candidate for disposal. Saka’s output is expected to improve, especially with favourable fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Burnley on the horizon. However, Sheth suggests keeping an eye on future developments, noting that Saka’s time in FPL teams might be limited with the potential return of players like Mohamed Salah (£13.1m) and Son Heung-min (£9.7m) for the upcoming Double Gameweek 25 involving Manchester City. The advice is to hold onto Saka for the time being.

Ben Crabtree (@FC_CrabDogg)

Ben Crabtree (@FC_CrabDogg) suggests that Bukayo Saka’s current form might improve in the future, and there is no immediate need to sell him solely based on his recent performances. However, Crabtree acknowledges that if FPL managers have higher-priority targets like Kevin De Bruyne (£10.5m), Phil Foden (£8.0m), or Diogo Jota, and require additional funds, selling Saka becomes a reasonable option. The advice is to consider selling Saka as a possibility, especially if it aligns with the broader strategic priorities of the team.

Nick Harris (@WGTA_Nick)

According to FPL expert Nick Harris (@WGTA_Nick), despite Bukayo Saka‘s recent disappointing returns in FPL, his raw talent and the threat he poses remain unchanged. Harris currently sees no urgency in selling Saka, especially considering the absence of players like Son Heung-min and Mohamed Salah. As long as there is sufficient budget and space in the midfield, Harris advises keeping Saka in the team. However, he acknowledges that this stance may change once Son and Salah return to club duty, suggesting that managers should reassess their decisions based on future developments. The advice for now is to retain Saka in the squad.

Gianni Buttice (@GianniButtice)

According to Gianni Buttice (@GianniButtice), despite a favorable run of fixtures for Saka, there are factors making him vulnerable in FPL teams. Three of the next four fixtures are away from home, and Buttice notes that goal contributions among Arsenal attackers are distributed evenly, with no clear talisman emerging. The decision on whether to keep or sell Saka is influenced by the manager’s appetite to acquire players like Kevin De Bruyne and how they plan to handle Mohamed Salah. Buttice leans towards the possibility of selling Saka, indicating that he has been considering this move for a few weeks. The advice is to weigh the options carefully, taking into account individual team priorities and overall strategy.

Mark McGettigan (@FPLGeneral)

Mark McGettigan (@FPLGeneral) suggests that Bukayo Saka is likely to be retained for the upcoming fixture against Nottingham Forest, indicating a temporary stay in the squad. However, McGettigan expresses a diminishing level of patience with Saka’s underwhelming performances, hinting that the Arsenal midfielder’s spot in the team is precarious. The looming presence of Kevin De Bruyne as a potential replacement adds to the consideration. Despite the waning patience, the current advice is to hold onto Saka for the time being, possibly for the next fixture, but managers are encouraged to monitor the situation closely.

Pras (@Pras_FPL)

Pras (@Pras_FPL) advocates holding onto Bukayo Saka unless a manager finds themselves in the fortunate position of having no other pressing issues to address in their team. Despite Saka’s recent lack of attacking output, Pras considers him a hold, especially if he doesn’t represent one of the weakest links in the team. The FPL manager emphasizes that Saka’s retention is based on specific team priorities, such as replacing Mohamed Salah and facilitating a move for Erling Haaland (£13.9m) soon. Therefore, the advice is to keep Saka in the team, taking into account individual team dynamics and overall strategy.

For owners of Bukayo Saka in the Fantasy Premier League, the decision on what to do with him depends on several factors. While statistics highlight Saka’s appeal in terms of both goal-scoring and assist potential, his recent underwhelming performances, along with the general struggles of Arsenal attackers, raise concerns.

The encouraging aspect is the improving goal threat shown by Saka in the last six Gameweeks, providing optimism for a potential turnaround in form. However, the overall performance of Arsenal attackers and Saka’s relatively high cost of £9.1m suggest that he may not be considered essential if the team continues to underperform.

Considering that both Mohamed Salah and Son Heung-min are still unavailable, there might not be an immediate rush to sell Saka. However, the long-term prospects of keeping him in the midfield appear uncertain unless he and his teammates can start converting more of their opportunities.

In summary, Saka owners should monitor his performances closely in the coming Gameweeks. If he fails to deliver and the struggles persist, especially in comparison to other attractive midfield options, it might be worth considering a transfer. However, the decision should be weighed against the team’s overall needs, priorities, and the availability of alternative midfield options.

Also Read: FPL player price changes- rises, falls, and top transfers in Gameweek 22