FPL Gameweek 22 team of the week with Haaland Ekitike and Fernandez picks
FPL returns with Gameweek 22 and all eyes are on the Manchester derby, where Erling Haaland is handed the captain’s armband in BBC Sport’s team of the week. The Norwegian has scored four goals in his last two league meetings with United and remains the standout pick despite Old Trafford’s history of cagey encounters.
Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz join Haaland in attack, both in fine form and facing a Burnley side that has conceded 2.6 goals per game away from home. Dominic Calvert-Lewin completes the front three, his nine league goals making him one of the most efficient strikers in the division.
The context is clear: Manchester derbies have averaged 3.1 goals per game over the past five seasons, yet two of the last five at Old Trafford have ended goalless. Managers must decide whether to trust attacking assets or prepare for another stalemate. Last week’s FPL selection returned 54 points, boosted by Igor Thiago and Bruno Guimaraes, though Malick Thiaw’s negative score was a reminder of the risks.
The match flow this weekend will hinge on United’s fragile defence against City’s relentless attack. Pep Guardiola’s side are without their two best centre-backs, while Michael Carrick’s United have struggled to keep clean sheets. That opens the door for Antoine Semenyo, who has scored in both of his first two City appearances, to continue his bright start.
Key incidents to watch include Gabriel’s aerial threat for Arsenal against Nottingham Forest, with the Brazilian defender already on a run of 15, nine and six points in his last three matches. Sunderland’s Robin Roefs and Nordi Mukiele form a defensive double-up against Crystal Palace, whose attack has dried up with just one goal in their last four.
Goals are expected from Liverpool’s duo. Wirtz has created 11 chances and scored twice in his last four games, while Ekitike has fired 16 shots and netted three times. Bruno Guimaraes, meanwhile, is in irresistible form with three goals in three matches and faces Wolves away.
In the second half of the season, managers will be looking for consistency. Enzo Fernandez offers value at £6.4m, with his expected goal involvement among the highest of Chelsea’s midfielders. Van de Ven’s clean sheet potential against West Ham adds further stability to the back line.
Late drama could come from Calvert-Lewin, who has been clinical for Leeds and faces a Fulham side prone to defensive lapses. His efficiency in front of goal makes him a dangerous differential.
The closing note is simple: Haaland remains the safest captaincy option, but with Semenyo, Ekitike and Wirtz all in form, this week’s Free Hit squad underlines the attacking riches available. With a total cost of £98.4m, the team balances star power with value, offering managers a blueprint for success in Gameweek 22.