Thursday’s European results involving Aston Villa and Crystal Palace may have an impact on the final weeks of Fantasy Premier League (FPL).
Champions League Qualification Scenarios
Aston Villa overturned a first-leg deficit to defeat Nottingham Forest and reach the Europa League final. Crystal Palace beat Shakhtar Donetsk to make the Conference League equivalent.
If Villa win the Europa League and finish exactly fifth domestically, the team below them will qualify for the Champions League. Currently, Bournemouth occupies that spot, with Brentford and Brighton and Hove Albion close behind. This scenario provides an extra incentive for these clubs to aim for sixth place, potentially ensuring strong line-ups from their managers while mathematically possible.
However, if Villa win the trophy and finish fourth, that extra Champions League place will be allocated abroad.
Crystal Palace Rotation Concerns
Oliver Glasner is already rotating his attackers at Crystal Palace. He hinted at more rotation over the coming days, which greatly reduces the appeal of their players for Double Gameweek 36.
Glasner indicated this rotation could continue until Gameweek 38’s hosting of Arsenal, happening three days before meeting Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig.
Glasner addressed potential criticism of his team selection. “I’m not responsible for Arsenal, I’m not responsible for Manchester City; I’m responsible for Crystal Palace and I get paid for doing the best things for Crystal Palace and not for City and not for Arsenal.” He added that he doesn’t yet know how he will plan Gameweek 38.
Manchester City’s Advantage
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will face another potentially distracted side. Freiburg are also managing European commitments.