FPL GW1 Differentials Highlighted

An editorial look at six low owned picks for Gameweek 1 to balance template teams and seek early value.

Top FPL GW1 Differential Picks to Target Ahead of GW1 Deadline

Gameweek 1 is just days away and this piece highlights six differentiators priced under 10% ownership as of August 13, 2025, plus one ultra differential under 1%. Nikola Milenkovic is listed as a 5.5 defender with a strong set piece threat and a favorable start. Elliot Anderson at 5.5 offers steady minutes in midfield and has shown attacking potential in pre season. El Hadji Malick Diouf at 4.5 provides a wing back option with attacking upside. Cody Gakpo at 7.5 has impressed in pre season and could become a reliable source of goals and assists. Niclas Fullkrug at 6.0 could partner Bowen in a 3-5-2 and supplies a clinical edge from set pieces. Georginio Rutter at 6.0 is the ultra differential, moving into a striker role in pre season for Brighton.

The article also promotes a fantasy hub with tools and guides and frames these picks as a way to beat the crowd by starting early. It notes that early differential success depends on minutes, fixtures, and price changes, and suggests balancing these low owned assets with steadier picks to protect overall rank even if one or more differen­tials underperform.

Chasing small ownership can pay off, but it also carries risk. The defenders and attackers highlighted bring upside through set pieces and minutes, yet rotation, injuries, and European schedules can blunt returns. The ultra differential Rutter represents a high risk high reward move that could pay off if he continues in a forward role. This trend reflects how fantasy communities seek edge before GW1, yet the best managers combine bold picks with proven starters to weather inevitable scares. The real test is how ownership shifts after Week 1 and whether one big haul can shift strategy for the weeks ahead.

Highlights

GW1 is a testing ground for judgment. The best strategy blends courage with caution as the season unfolds.