15 Starters, No Passengers: The Ultimate GW1 Bench Boost Team 🔥
The opening week of the Premier League season is the most predictable window in FPL. Fixtures are fixed, teams are fully fit (somewhat) and starting elevens are easier to predict than at any other point in the campaign. When you combine that certainty with unlimited transfers, it becomes clear why Gameweek 1 is a prime moment to activate Bench Boost.
Looking for predicted lineups or FPL rankings? We've got you covered.
Our Gameweek 1 FPL cheat sheet is now live! Unfamiliar? Check this thread.
Chelsea open with a run that makes Robert Sanchez an obvious pick in goal. Their defensive numbers last season were excellent, finishing second for expected goals conceded, and Sanchez offers a secure route into their back line. Bart Verbruggen is the backup, chosen with the expectation that Burnley's Martin Dubravka will not be ready for the opener.
Spurs' early schedule is one of the best in the league, which is why Pedro Porro is an easy selection. His attacking play and set-piece involvement only strengthen his case. Partnering him is Cristian Romero, providing double Spurs coverage at the back.
Nottingham Forest also start with an encouraging run, making Murillo and Neco Williams both viable inclusions. Murillo's defensive contribution rate last season was outstanding, while Williams offers versatility and steady points potential. Joachim Andersen's opening fixtures are tougher, but his ability to collect defensive contributions and bonus points makes him a strong budget pick.
In midfield, Liverpool's early schedule includes two standout fixtures in Gameweeks 4 and 5, which keeps Mohamed Salah locked in. Chelsea's kind run also elevates Cole Palmer, who will be on penalties. Manchester United host Burnley in Gameweek 3, making Bruno Fernandes an appealing captaincy alternative. His defensive work will also be rewarded more under the new rules.
Youri Tielemans is a dependable pick who could add penalty duties to his repertoire, and Elliot Anderson's defensive and creative output is boosted significantly under the updated scoring system. A further role on set pieces could also greatly benefit Anderson following Anthony Elanga's departure.
Up front, Eddie Nketiah's injury make Jean-Philippe Mateta an attractive choice, especially with his possible penalty involvement. Wolves' opening games give Jorgen Strand Larsen a good platform to start as the main striker after Matheus Cunha's exit. Joel Piroe's favourable home fixture against Everton in the first week makes him the safer enabler over Marc Guiu, whose fitness remains in doubt.
By aligning this squad with the fixture list and focusing on secure starters, it becomes possible to maximise every slot in Gameweek 1. The aim is not just to field a strong XI but to have a bench capable of matching it.
With the new scoring system increasing the value of defensive work, even the most modest fixtures can yield unexpected returns, making this an ideal setup for an opening-day Bench Boost.
The Best Bench Boost Gameweek 1 Team
