Fantasy Premier League: top attacking differentials for the season's finish

The Fantasy Premier League season is approaching its decisive stage, where every round could be a game-changer. Experienced managers have saved their chips specifically for this period, as double gameweeks ahead offer a chance to maximize points. At such a moment, differentials come to the forefront – lesser-known players who can provide unexpected bonuses. A smart selection of these players could help you surge ahead in your mini-leagues and finish the season on a high note. Let’s take a look at strikers who could be the key to success in the battle for the top spot.

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Jean-Philippe Mateta (CRY) £7.5, TSB 5.5%

CRY next fixtures: sou, BHA, mci, new, BOU

Crystal Palace is unlikely to seriously compete for European spots through the league, but Oliver Glasner's team is known for stepping up at the season's end. It's important to remember that the Eagles are still in the FA Cup race — this Saturday, they will play in the quarter-finals against Fulham. A win in this match will give Palace a double gameweek in GW33, automatically making their assets interesting for fantasy managers.

Particular attention should be paid to Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was showing outstanding form before his recent injury. In the last six gameweeks, the Frenchman scored 6 goals and provided 1 assist, making him one of the most prolific forwards in the league during this period.

Despite the injury sustained in the cup match against Millwall, there is every reason to believe that Mateta is ready to return. In his latest interview and social media, he hinted at his readiness to play in the upcoming cup match.

Additionally, it's important to remember the crucial bonus — Mateta is the designated penalty taker. If he returns to the field in the next gameweek and retains his starting position, with a potential double gameweek, he becomes a powerful differential and a promising budget striker for the season's end.

Omar Marmoush £7.3 (MCI) TSB 13.3%

MCI next fixtures: LEI, mun, CRY, AVL, eve

The final stretch of the season is crucial for the Citizens, who risk missing out on a Champions League spot. One of the reasons for their inconsistent results could be the dip in form of Erling Haaland £14.8 – the forward, who was usually a reliable captaincy pick in fantasy, no longer guarantees a steady points return.

In this context, winter signing Omar Marmoush stands out. The Egyptian has added new dynamics to the attack and has looked noticeably sharper than his star partner in recent matches. His activity in the box, frequent shots on goal, and involvement in creating scoring chances make Marmoush an interesting differential in fantasy for the decisive stretch of the season. If the trend continues, he could become an unexpected source of green arrows for those who dare to back him.

Another argument in his favor is the high likelihood of a double gameweek for City in GW33, making Marmoush's selection even more appealing, even if Erling Haaland is already in the squad.

Evanilson £5.7 (BOU), TSB 3.3%

BOU next fixtures: IPS, whu, FUL, cry, MUN

Bournemouth has unexpectedly joined the race for European spots and, given the tight competition at the top of the table, even maintains a chance for a Champions League spot. Andoni Iraola's team is showing confident attacking play, making their assets particularly interesting in fantasy.

Before his injury, the Brazilian forward was in decent form, but his return to the starting lineup was in doubt due to the successful performance of Dango Ouattara, who effectively replaced him. However, in recent gameweeks, Iraola made it clear that he fully trusts his tactical plans and sees Evanilson as a key player in the starting lineup. The forward quickly justified expectations, scoring in the match against Tottenham.

Good chemistry with teammates and active participation in the final phase of attacks make Evanilson an attractive differential. Given Bournemouth's stable attacking metrics and affordable price, he could become a valuable asset for those seeking an underrated source of points in the crucial gameweeks of the season.

João Pedro £5.6 (BHA), TSB 15.0%

BHA next fixtures: AVL, cry, LEI, bre, WHU

Brighton's form is impressive – the team has gained momentum, winning 4 consecutive matches and drawing with Manchester City away in the last gameweek. Such a surge makes the Seagulls' assets attractive options for strengthening fantasy squads. If there is a free slot in the attack, João Pedro looks like a reliable and affordable choice.

The Brazilian plays a key role in Fabian Hurzeler's attacking schemes, is the designated penalty taker, and actively participates in creating chances. His form is backed by stats – in the last 5 gameweeks, he has scored 3 goals and provided 1 assist, making him one of the most productive forwards in his price range.

Pedro's call-up to the Brazilian national team, where he received the symbolic number nine for this footballing nation, further highlights the trust placed in him.

The potential DGW33 adds to the Brazilian's appeal: if Brighton gets past Nottingham in the FA Cup quarter-finals, the team will have two matches in one gameweek, making João Pedro almost a must-have for managers for the rest of the season.

• Read also: Replacement for Nunez. Liverpool contacts João Pedro's entourage from Brighton

Raul Jimenez £5.5 (FUL), TSB 7.4%

FUL next fixtures: ars, LIV, bou, CHE, sou

Fulham continues to battle on two fronts – the team is 8th in the league and still has a chance to qualify for European competitions, as well as reaching the FA Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Crystal Palace this coming Saturday. If the Cottagers overcome this hurdle, they will have a double gameweek in GW33, automatically increasing the attractiveness of their fantasy assets.

One of Fulham's key players remains Raul Jimenez, who is having one of the best seasons of his career. He has 11 goals and 3 assists in all club competitions, plus 5 goals for the Mexican national team. In addition to regularly scoring from the penalty spot, he recently scored a stunning long-range free-kick for his national team, making him an even more appealing choice.

The Mexican returns to the club in high spirits – in the CONCACAF Nations League Cup final, Jimenez scored a brace, helping his national team beat Panama 2-1 and secure the trophy. This form and confidence make him an intriguing differential for managers looking for an underrated forward with high potential.