Fantasy Premier League

GW2 Lessons: Dias can avoid Pep rotation

By The Scout 23 Aug 2021
Ruben Dias, Man City

Centre-back starts again as Man City head coach makes multiple changes in Norwich win

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Pep Guardiola has wasted no time this season in reminding managers in Fantasy Premier League of his rotation policy. 

For Manchester City’s Gameweek 2 home match against Norwich City, the Spaniard made five changes to the starting XI that lost at Tottenham Hotspur in their season's opener.

Guardiola's decision to bench Riyad Mahrez (£9.0m) proved a major surprise, particularly as Kevin De Bruyne (£12.0m) was injured.

Man City 5-0 Norwich highlights

The Algerian had been Man City's form player over the summer, scoring three goals and assisting a further two.

Yet he was reduced to a 15-minute cameo in the 5-0 win, belatedly rewarding his backers with a goal and six points.

Midfield competition

Summer signing Jack Grealish (£8.0m) also scored on his home debut. 

Grealish is among only three Man City midfielders to start both Gameweeks, highlighting the fierce competition for places in their attack.

That lack of certainty could drive managers to instead turn to City's defence.

Dias a safe selection

Ruben Dias' (£6.0m) influence at centre-back makes him a vital player for Guardiola.

The Portuguese delivered 11 points against Norwich thanks to a clean sheet, an assist and two bonus.

He looks the most secure option in a side who recorded a league-leading 19 clean sheets last season.

There is no doubt City's key attackers offer far greater upside in terms of explosive captaincy potential in Fantasy.

But Guardiola's latest line-up indicates managers are more likely to avoid disappointment by relying on the security of Dias. 

Also in this series

Part 1: FDR Analysis: Everton can build momentum
Part 2: GW2 FPL stats: Lukaku outscores Salah and Fernandes
Part 3: GW2 Bonus points: West Ham duo add to scores
Part 4: FPL Saturday review: Mings leads dominant defenders
Part 5: Jota can help you get Lukaku
Part 6: FPL experts: What to do with Tsimikas and Jota?

Remember, the Gameweek 3 deadline is at 11:00 BST on Saturday 28 August.

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