Fernandes and Saka among five players you need to add before AFCON

FPL gameweek 16 brings a mix of rotation risk and explosive potential as we enter the chaotic festive run, writes Fantasy Premier League expert Blake Hurst. It’s the perfect time to reshuffle your squad and target players who can deliver consistent minutes and high ceilings. Whether you’re chasing rank or solidifying your lead, these five picks offer a balance of reliability and upside heading into a busy December.

Bruno Fernandes (9.1m)

Back to his best. After that monster 18-point haul against Wolves, Bruno Fernandes now sits as the league’s top-scoring midfielder. Although he’s playing slightly deeper at times, Fernandes remains United’s heartbeat – a guaranteed 90-minute man and penalty taker for a team ranked third for goals this season. He’s producing 0.46 xGI/90 and an impressive 0.67 actual goal involvement per 90, despite missing two spot-kicks. Add in his elite DEFCON rate of 10.61 per 90, and the upside is massive. With quality fixtures on the horizon, the Portuguese looks like a must-have heading into the festive madness.

Hugo Ekitike (8.4m)

Differential alert. With Cody Gakpo sidelined and Mohamed Salah potentially unavailable this gameweek before heading off to AFCON, Hugo Ekitike could force his way into Arne Slot’s plans. He’s not yet a 90 minute player, but every time he steps on the pitch, he carries threat – boasting a strong 0.68 goal involvement per 90. If he starts alongside Alexander Isak, his price could quickly rise as managers jump on the value. This is a short-term punt with explosive upside – ideal for managers chasing ranks or playing aggressively in December. If he gets minutes, expect returns.

Raúl Jiménez (6.2m)

1.5% owned Raul Jiménez looks set to lead the line again and remains on penalties, which immediately makes him FPL relevant. His security of starts is a big plus, especially during the fixture congestion of the festive weeks. If you’re holding the Bench Boost chip and looking to deploy it before Gameweek 19, Jimenez is an excellent enabler who offers steady returns. His team-mate Harry Wilson also tempts as a short-term punt, but rotation feels more likely for him than for Jiménez. Expect solid value and dependable minutes from the Mexican – just what’s needed for winter rotation chaos.

Igor Thiago (7.0m)

Don’t overlook Igor Thiago. After two tough fixtures, he impressed against Tottenham and could easily have found the net twice. Now, with fixtures against Leeds, Wolves, and Bournemouth up next, he’s firmly back on the FPL radar. He’s also his side’s penalty taker, which boosts his appeal even more. At his price point, Thiago offers superb value across this busy period – the kind of player who can deliver attacking returns while freeing up funds elsewhere. With confidence growing and the schedule softening, he’s a great low cost forward to jump on now before his ownership climbs.