We are here with our best FPL tips this week for Gameweek 5 of the 26-27 Season. Fantasy Premier League Gameweek 5 is here, and managers have plenty of important decisions to make before the deadline. With some highly attractive fixtures, several in-form differentials and a few players worth avoiding, this could be a crucial week for gaining an edge over your mini-league rivals.
Here are our top five FPL Gameweek 5 tips to consider before making your transfers and finalising your team.
1. There’s a Slight Risk With Haaland Captaincy
Erling Haaland is undoubtedly the safe captaincy pick for FPL Gameweek 5. Manchester City face Sunderland at home, making the Norwegian an obvious candidate for the armband.
However, managers looking to take a calculated risk could consider Morgan Gibbs-White as an alternative captain.
Nottingham Forest welcomed Coventry City to the City Ground, and Gibbs-White has emerged as one of the most exciting midfield options this season. His attacking involvement and set-piece responsibilities give him plenty of routes to points, while Forest's fixture is arguably one of the best on paper this week.
There is also an interesting historical statistic worth considering: Haaland has scored zero goals in his two Premier League appearances against Sunderland.
That obviously does not mean he will blank this weekend, but if you're chasing rank and want to move away from the obvious captaincy choice, Gibbs-White could be a fascinating differential.
2. Target Arsenal Defenders With Attacking Potential
Arsenal's trip to Brighton is an unusual fixture for FPL managers. The Gunners have been excellent defensively, but Brighton's impressive attacking form means this could be one of those games where an Arsenal clean sheet isn't guaranteed.
That makes attacking potential particularly important when selecting Arsenal defenders.
Timber and Calafiori stand out as interesting options because of their ability to contribute going forward. Gabriel is another player worth considering, particularly for managers who value his aerial threat from set pieces.
Rather than simply targeting the Arsenal defender most likely to keep a clean sheet, look for the player who can potentially deliver points at both ends of the pitch.
Arsenal remain one of the strongest defensive teams in FPL, but choosing an attacking-minded defender could give you a higher ceiling in Gameweek 5.
3. Target Everton and Forest Differentials
One of the biggest FPL Gameweek 5 tips is to look beyond the obvious premium picks.
Everton and Nottingham Forest have two of the most attractive fixtures of the weekend, with Everton hosting Ipswich and Forest welcoming Coventry.
Both teams offer managers opportunities to find differentials depending on their squad structure and available budget.
Forest, in particular, deserve attention after their impressive start, while Everton could also provide value for managers searching for an under-owned midfielder, forward or defender.
The key is not to blindly buy players simply because they have a favourable fixture. Look at your existing squad, identify the positions where you need an upgrade and then choose the Everton or Forest option that best fits your budget.
4. Don't Bring in Welbeck Unless You're Using Free Hit
Danny Welbeck is arguably one of the most exciting high-risk, high-reward FPL differentials for Gameweek 5.
With João Pedro injured and expected to miss Chelsea's clash with Brentford, Welbeck could receive increased attention from FPL managers looking for a short-term punt.
However, we wouldn't recommend bringing him in for a normal transfer unless you are using the Free Hit chip or viewing him as a long-term bench option.
The main issue is timing. João Pedro is expected to have a chance of returning after the international break, meaning Welbeck could quickly lose his appeal as a regular starter.
If you're playing Free Hit, however, Welbeck becomes considerably more attractive because you only need to maximise his short-term potential.
5. Manchester United Players Are Best Avoided
Manchester United are a mess at the moment, both on and off the pitch.
Their disastrous start to the season has created uncertainty around the team, while the issues surrounding the club have only added to the negativity. For FPL managers, uncertainty is usually something worth avoiding.
If you are absolutely determined to own a Manchester United player, Bruno Fernandes is arguably the only one worth considering, particularly because of his individual involvement and potential for attacking returns.
Even then, we would personally avoid making a transfer for him unless there is a compelling reason.
Every other Manchester United option should be considered a big no for the short term, at least until there are clearer signs that performances and results are improving.
Final Thoughts
Gameweek 5 is a week where FPL managers should balance safe picks with calculated differentials. Haaland remains the obvious captain, but Gibbs-White offers an exciting alternative for those chasing rank. Arsenal's attacking defenders, Everton and Forest assets can also provide strong opportunities, while Welbeck is best treated as a short-term punt.
And when it comes to Manchester United, sometimes the best FPL move is simply to stay away.
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