The Scout assesses the sides with the most favourable opening schedules in 2023/24 Fantasy Premier League.
Chelsea
The Blues have the opportunity to enjoy a successful start to their first season under Mauricio Pochettino.
In the first eight Gameweeks, Chelsea face five of the six teams who have been promoted to the Premier League over the last two seasons.
They entertain Luton Town and Nottingham Forest in that run, as well as visiting AFC Bournemouth, Fulham and Burnley.
Chelsea’s first eight matches
| GW | Opp | FDR | GW | Opp | FDR |
| 1 | LIV (H) | 4 | 5 | BOU (A) | 2 |
| 2 | WHU (A) | 3 | 6 | AVL (H) | 3 |
| 3 | LUT (H) | 2 | 7 | FUL (A) | 2 |
| 4 | NFO (H) | 2 | 8 | BUR (A) | 2 |
Here are three players who could thrive during that opening run of fixtures.
Reece James
The arrival of Pochettino can help the right-back rediscover his best form after a disappointing 2022/23.
James was restricted to just 16 appearances last season due to injury, managing just one goal and two assists.
He is likely to be a key figure in Pochettino’s favoured 4-2-3-1 formation and could also be handed set-piece duties.
James averaged 6.3 points per start in 2021/22 thanks to five goals, nine assists and seven clean sheets.
Those multiple routes to returns could make him a must-have if the Blues can profit from their kind run.
Raheem Sterling
The winger endured a disappointing first campaign at Chelsea, claiming just 101 points in Fantasy on the back of six goals and four assists.
But despite his limited output, Sterling was still one of the Blues’ main goal threats.
His 35 shots in the box, 12 big chances and 16 shots on target all placed second among team-mates.
Chelsea’s lack of European duties this season suggests there will be less rotation in 2023/24, giving Sterling the chance to revive his Fantasy prospects under Pochettino.
Christopher Nkunku
The Frenchman’s position in Fantasy in 2023/24 will play a big part in how managers assess his appeal.
Playing mainly as a forward for RB Leipzig last term, Nkunku scored 16 goals and supplied a further six assists in the Bundesliga.
The versatile attacker was even more productive in 2021/22.
He delivered 20 goals and 15 assists in 34 league appearances, featuring in all three attacking midfield positions as well as up front.
If he is listed as a midfielder in Fantasy and Chelsea find their form under Pochettino, Nkunku’s all-round potential could make him a popular pick.
Also in this series
Part 1: Arsenal
Part 2: Brentford
Part 3: Brighton
Part 5: Liverpool
Part 6: Luton
Part 7: Man City