We are here with our Top 5 best FPL defenders picks this week for Gameweek 2. With FPL Gameweek 2 approaching, choosing the right defenders could be crucial for managers looking to build a reliable squad. While clean-sheet potential remains important, attacking involvement can make certain defenders significantly more valuable, particularly those playing in advanced roles.
This week, there are several interesting options across different price points. From midfielders-in-disguise to set-piece threats and premium defensive options, here are the top five FPL defenders to buy for Gameweek 2.
1. Marc Guéhi — £6.0m
Marc Guéhi is one of the most intriguing defensive options this week because of the position he occupied in Manchester City's game against Bournemouth. Rather than playing as a conventional centre-back, Guéhi operated as a central defensive midfielder, a position he had never played before.
Maresca's decision was largely influenced by the shortage of midfield options. Although City have now signed Ayoub Bouaddi from Lille for a record fee, the youngster is new to the Premier League, making it questionable whether Maresca will immediately trust him in that role.
As a result, there is a possibility that Guéhi could once again feature as a CDM. That would significantly increase his attacking potential, giving him more opportunities for goals and assists.
However, even if he returns to centre-back, Guéhi remains an appealing option. At £6.0m, he can offer value regardless of his position, making him one of the best defenders to consider for Gameweek 2.
2. Reece James — £5.5m
Reece James is another defender whose potential FPL value could be transformed by his role. The Chelsea captain has previously been used as a central defensive midfielder, and Alonso deployed him in that position during Chelsea's opener against Fulham.
When fit, James is one of the most dangerous attacking defenders in the league. His passing, crossing and ability to contribute in the final third give him genuine potential for both goals and assists.
The biggest concern with James has always been his fitness, but he played the full 90 minutes in the opening game, which is certainly encouraging.
Chelsea face Brighton this week, and their opponents' attacking approach could create spaces for James to exploit. If he once again operates in an advanced midfield role, £5.5m looks extremely tempting.
3. Riccardo Calafiori — £5.6m
Riccardo Calafiori stands out as one of the best defenders for value for money this Gameweek. The Arsenal defender is highly involved in attacking situations and frequently pushes forward to support his team's attacks.
That attacking involvement is particularly attractive in FPL because Calafiori doesn't need to rely solely on clean-sheet points. He has the potential to add assists, goals and bonus points while benefiting from Arsenal's defensive strength.
Arsenal face Aston Villa this week, with Unai Emery's side currently undergoing a rebuild after losing several important players. It could take time for Villa to find stability, which makes an Arsenal clean sheet a realistic possibility.
At £5.6m, Calafiori offers an excellent combination of attacking potential and defensive security, making him one of the standout budget-to-mid-price options.
4. Harry Maguire — £5.0m
Harry Maguire is perhaps the biggest gamble on this list, but he could also be an excellent differential pick for managers willing to take a risk.
Manchester United suffered a shocking defeat against Hull in Gameweek 1, but they now return to Old Trafford to face Ipswich. The return to Old Trafford makes it a more favourable fixture, particularly for a defender like Maguire.
His biggest FPL appeal comes from his aerial ability. Against Ipswich, Maguire could be a major threat from set pieces, giving him a realistic chance of scoring a headed goal.
At only £5.0m, Maguire doesn't require a huge number of returns to justify his price. He is certainly not the safest option, but if you're looking for a cheaper defender with significant upside, he is worth considering.
5. Gabriel — £8.0m
Gabriel is the premium option among these five and comes with the highest price tag at £8.0m. However, there is a reason to invest heavily in the Arsenal centre-back.
He remains one of the league's biggest defensive threats from set pieces and has the ability to score headed goals with ease. His attacking contribution doesn't stop there, with his ability to deliver dangerous balls into the final third also giving him assist potential.
Arsenal's defensive strength further increases his appeal. Against an Aston Villa side still trying to find stability, Gabriel has an excellent opportunity to combine clean-sheet potential with attacking returns.
For managers willing to spend more on defence, Gabriel remains one of the strongest FPL options for Gameweek 2.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of attractive defensive options for FPL Gameweek 2, but Marc Guéhi and Reece James stand out because of their potential midfield roles. Calafiori offers excellent value, Maguire provides a cheaper differential route, while Gabriel remains the premium pick.
For managers looking for a balance between price, clean-sheet potential and attacking upside, these five defenders could be excellent additions this week.
