Bonus points changes, more transfers and a new powerup.
Oh yes, it’s that time of year again as Fantasy Premier League (FPL) returns.
While most are gearing up for the Premier League to get underway there are some analysing the data, crunching the numbers and checking the fixtures all in the aim of one goal – Bragging rights.
Whether in the office, with friends and family or just on the national stage, people across the world will be looking to be crowned Fantasy Premier League champion.
And if you want to make sure you have the edge over your rivals, well keep reading because there have been plenty of changes since last season.
Transfers.
Transfers are an integral part of the fantasy football landscape that allow players to chop and change line-ups per fixtures and injuries.
In the past, players were gifted two free transfers to have at their disposal with the total replenishing by one free transfer each week.
Now, similar to changes on the pitch in the real game, FPL players will have a massive five free transfers to tactically plan out for maximum points return.
They will still replenish at a rate of one per week, however, so keep in mind that if you spend your allowance all at once you could be stuck for a bit.
As1 an added bonus, free transfers will no longer be reset to zero when using the Wildcard and Free Hit chips meaning players will be able to save up their free transfers, use one of these chips and still make five changes the gameweek after.
A new chip?
That’s right, if FPL wasn’t absolutely exhilarating enough already, there is now a brand new feature to look forward to and no one knows what it does!
Known currently as the mystery chip, its real name and purpose won’t be unveiled until January 2025.
In a cryptic post on the FPL’s website, the so-called ‘Scout’ wrote about the potential “return of the All Out Attack chip, last seen in 2017” which “allowed FPL managers to play a 2-5-3 formation for one week only.”
The article also hinted at the idea of a completely new chip such as one that offers unlimited funds or double points for forwards.
However, the ultimate winners will be the ones who plan accordingly ahead of its entering into action in the new year, with good chip management advised throughout the season.
FPL expert Sam Bonfield said: “Chips are a huge part of the FPL game. Getting the chip strategy right can be the difference between winning a mini-league and coming second.
“The announcement of the Mystery Chip is really exciting. I wonder if we could see a return of one of the chips from seasons past, like my all-time favourite the All Out Attack chip?!
“If not, could it be something we have seen FPL trial in the FPL Challenge game like the limitless price week or the points for every shot?
“Whatever the new chip is, I can’t wait to hear about it!”
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Points mean prizes
One of the biggest changes ahead of the 2024/2025 season is to the point scoring system as well as the bonus point scoring system.
From now, if you’re lucky enough to see a goalkeeper score this season and just so happen to have him in your team, you’ll receive 10 points instead of the previous 6.
In regards to the bonus point system, goalkeepers will be penalised heaviest, receiving only 9 points instead of 15 points for a penalty save.
Meanwhile, there are four new additions to the scoring system the first being a goal conceded that will worth -4 points to defenders and goalkeepers.
A goal-line clearance will be worth 3 points, a foul won will be worth 1 point while a shot on target will be worth 2 points.
This will have a significant impact on the bonus point system landscape with certain footballers on the pitch expected to be winners and losers.
Blank and double gameweeks
With the change in schedule to FA Cup there will be fewer clashes with Premier League fixtures meaning fewer and smaller blank and double gameweeks.
Since the FA Cup quarter-finals will take place in late March when there are not Premier League matches taking place, there will be no fixture clash, reducing the amount of blank and double gameweeks.
Let the season begin!
Well with this crucial information now obtained, keen players of FPL will be hoping to go into the season prepped and ready to go, looking to get a head start on their respective leagues.
Only time will tell if the changes will have a real difference in how this year’s FPL will shape up.
