With players departing for AFCON 2025, the available player pool will inevitably shrink. However, this also opens the door for several rotational options to step up and earn increased minutes.
While many teams will be affected, the tournament creates an opportunity to identify differentials—players who benefit from improved game time and can make a meaningful impact during the AFCON period.
Cunha (Manchester United, 4.5% Newcastle United)
Cunha has quietly contributed behind the scenes, allowing teammates such as Mbeumo, Amad, and Bruno to take the spotlight.
With both Mbeumo and Amad now away on international duty, Cunha is likely to shoulder greater attacking responsibility. Given his past performances, there is little doubt that he can step up and fill the scoring void.
Wirtz (Liverpool, 6.9% Wolves)
Florian Wirtz has taken some time to adapt to his new surroundings, but his attitude has remained positive and driven as he looks to make his mark in the reigning champions’ setup at Liverpool.
The timing could hardly be better: they face Wolverhampton Wanderers, who currently sit bottom of the table and have conceded the most goals this season.
With Mohamed Salah away on international duty, Wirtz is likely to be handed greater attacking responsibility—making this an ideal opportunity for him to translate his potential into decisive returns on the pitch, finally.
Bowen (West Ham, 6.8% Nottingham Forest)
Fulham will be without their starting centre-back, Calvin Bassey, due to AFCON, which could weaken their defensive structure.
This presents an opportunity for Jarrod Bowen to further extend his strong form and convert it into goals or assists on the pitch.
Despite West Ham United sitting 18th in the table, Bowen currently ranks as the third-highest scoring forward, trailing only Erling Haaland and Igor Thiago—highlighting his consistency and FPL appeal regardless of team struggles.
Roefs (Sunderland, 9.1% Leeds United)
Sunderland have established themselves in the top half of the table this season, recording impressive results, including a win over Chelsea and draws against both Liverpool and Arsenal.
They remain unbeaten at home, making the Stadium of Light a difficult venue for visiting sides.
Despite being heavily impacted by AFCON absences, Sunderland’s strong home form means it will still be a tough challenge for Leeds United to come away with points.
This fixture also presents a promising opportunity for a clean sheet, particularly from a defensive and goalkeeper perspective.
