Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, brace yourselves—the Double Gameweek 26 is almost here, and it’s already serving up drama. But here’s where it gets controversial: Leandro Trossard’s fitness is now a major question mark, leaving many to wonder how Arsenal’s lineup will shake out. Let’s dive into the key takeaways from their 3-0 win over Sunderland, a performance that showcased both promise and uncertainty.
Arsenal’s victory was impressive, especially without star players Bukayo Saka (£9.9m) and Martin Odegaard (£7.8m), whose absences were expected. Yet, the real concern emerged late in the game when Trossard (£6.8m), who had been a standout performer, appeared to struggle physically. He walked off unaided, but Mikel Arteta remained tight-lipped about his condition post-match. With Arsenal’s next game not until Thursday, and Arteta unlikely to face the media before Tuesday’s deadline, FPL managers are left in the dark about Trossard’s—and potentially Saka’s and Odegaard’s—availability for the Double Gameweek. And this is the part most people miss: early-week training footage might offer clues, but it could also mislead, as seen with Jurrien Timber (£6.4m), who started and finished despite earlier doubts.
Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres (£8.7m) is quietly emerging as a wildcard option. Coming off the bench against Sunderland, he scored a brace, showcasing his ability to capitalize on opportunities. Six of his eight Premier League goals have come against newly promoted sides, but his form and confidence are undeniable. Arteta’s post-match praise for Gyokeres hints at a potential starting role on Thursday, though rotation remains a risk. Is he a safer bet than Gabriel Jesus (£6.4m) for the Double Gameweek? It’s a debate worth having.
On the flanks, Gabriel Martinelli (£6.8m) has been finishing games on the right, while Noni Madueke (£6.8m), Saka’s deputy, has been subbed off early in recent matches. Madueke’s minutes are unpredictable, and while he’s shown glimpses of promise, his productivity remains inconsistent. Are you willing to gamble on him for two starts in Gameweek 26, or is it a clock-watching risk too far?
Defensively, William Saliba (£6.0m) and David Raya (£5.9m) delivered unexpected ‘extras.’ Saliba earned DefCon points for the first time since Gameweek 1, while Raya pocketed over six FPL points—only his second such haul this season. Yet, Raya’s performance was far from flawless, with a dropped cross and unconvincing saves. Is he a reliable pick, or just a one-off beneficiary of a commanding defensive display?
Declan Rice (£7.5m) ended his four-match blank streak with DefCon returns and nearly scored a stunning goal. Meanwhile, Martin Zubimendi (£5.2m) continues to outperform expectations, now Arsenal’s joint-second-top league scorer. At £5.2m, is Zubimendi the midfield bargain of the season, or is Rice still the safer long-term pick?
For Sunderland, it’s a case of ‘forget and move on.’ Despite a third straight away defeat, they limited Arsenal’s chances for much of the game, a marked improvement from previous losses. With two home fixtures coming up—where they’re unbeaten this season—the Mackems have a chance to bounce back. But can they tighten their defense enough to avoid conceding three goals yet again?
As we head into the Double Gameweek, the questions are piling up. Will Trossard be fit? Is Gyokeres a must-have? Can Sunderland turn their form around? What’s your take? Are you backing Arsenal’s rotation risks, or steering clear? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
