In the world of fantasy football, the role of midfielders is diverse and intriguing. Whether they play up front, move from midfield to score, provide assists from the wings, or take charge of set pieces as attacking midfielders, all players in this category are simply labeled “midfielders.” Their offensive inclination and position can significantly influence their market value. However, unlike specific formats that restrict formations, there’s no rule preventing you from including three wingers in a 4-3-3 setup. The key is to manage your budget wisely.
Many fantasy players yearn for the dynamic duo of Hakan Calhanoglu and Teun Koopmeiners, but it’s essential to consider budget-friendly options to avoid being left without strikers. Looking back at last season, Calhanoglu emerged as the top midfielder. Although he plays in a defensive role for Inter, he is also the penalty taker for one of the strongest teams in the league, with 13 goals in the 2023/2024 season and a solid record of 31 appearances and an average rating of 6.51.
Koopmeiners is also an exciting prospect after finishing last season with 12 goals and 5 assists. However, unlike Calhanoglu, his future at Atalanta is uncertain, raising the possibility of a shift in his playing position if he departs from manager Gian Piero Gasperini’s plans. There’s also Christian Pulisic, who secured a place among the best midfielders after moving to Milan from Chelsea. In his first Serie A season, he showcased his skills with 12 goals and 7 assists, maintaining an impressive average rating of 7.57. With a more attacking style under new coach Paulo Fonseca, Pulisic stands to benefit even more this season.
The flexibility to include midfielders with strong offensive skills means that even players from lower-ranked teams can shine during the season. For instance, Gabriel Strefezza scored 7 goals with Lecce last season before returning to Serie B to pursue an ambitious project with Como. He represents a low-cost option for your midfield, despite playing in a three-forward setup alongside Cesc Fabregas.
If you’re looking to save on goalkeeper and defensive positions, consider investing in reliable midfielders like Nicolò Barella, who consistently delivers with 36 appearances and an average rating of 6.68. Meanwhile, both Davide Frattesi and Ruben Loftus-Cheek promise bonus contributions, each tallying 6 in the current season, although they have slightly fewer appearances.
If you’re considering another option in Lazio’s Mattia Zaccagni, it’s a wise move, especially following Luis Alberto’s departure. Zaccagni can take the lead for Lazio, but at a comparable price, you could also nab Atalanta’s “false nines.” The potential of Charles De Ketelaere, who netted 10 goals and provided 6 assists last season, could be replicated with the newly signed Nicolo Zaniolo.
For those who first enjoyed the bonuses from players like Soulé, Candreva, and Viola last season, now is the time to narrow down potential breakout stars among teams battling for survival. Some names are already standing out: Suslov could become a key player for Verona under manager Gianluca Zanetti, while Bernabé aims for consistent performances with Parma in Serie A, making him a reliable choice for a sixth or seventh slot on your roster as opponents are likely to favor other names.
Don’t overlook Folorunsho and Tchaouna, who play for Napoli and Lazio respectively. Both might start on the bench initially but could quickly become regular starters. With Ferguson sidelined due to injury, Fabbian is hopeful of building on last year’s 5 goals and is now eyeing double digits. Finally, keep an eye on Mattia Felici from Cagliari, a talented 23-year-old attacking midfielder formerly of Feralpisalò. He has caught the eye of coach Nicola during pre-season training, and at perhaps a low cost, he could be a savvy acquisition for fantasy managers.