Football Paparazzi’s Weekly Fantasy Fix: The best alternative captain picks for Gameweek 10

Every week, Football Paparazzi’s Weekly Fantasy Fix dives into the biggest dilemmas facing FPL managers, and this time, we’re tackling the one question everyone’s asking: is it a good idea to bet AGAINST an in-form Erling Haaland?

Well, before we start, the simple answer is no. But many will consider it and after all, what is life without a little risk in Fantasy Premier League?

The Norwegian machine is in unstoppable form he faces a serious test this weekend. Manchester City host Liverpool, a side that’s suddenly rediscovered its form, and more importantly, defensive bite.

They have kept back-to-back clean sheets, including one against Real Madrid’s star-studded attack featuring Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.

So, if you’re brave enough to roll the dice and seek out a differential captain, here are three standout alternatives who could outscore the obvious pick in Gameweek 10.

Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace)

It’s time to start giving Mateta the respect he deserves. The French forward has quietly been one of the league’s most in-form strikers, combining sharp finishing with excellent underlying numbers.

He faces a home fixture against Brighton, a side that has managed just one clean sheet all season. Palace have been strong at Selhurst Park, and with Mateta consistently getting into high-value positions, this matchup screams opportunity.

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

When in doubt, back the talisman. Saka comes into Gameweek 10 with the spotlight firmly on him after injuries to Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Martinelli left Arsenal short on attacking options.

He’ll be leading the charge as the Gunners take on promoted Sunderland at a packed Stadium of Light. Arsenal’s attack flows through Saka, and he got himself on the scoresheet in the Champions League, too. He’s due a monster haul…trust the law of averages!

Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)

If you prefer a steady, risk-free captain who still carries upside, Gabriel is your man.

Arsenal’s defensive record this season has been nothing short of elite. As per, the Premier League website, Just three goals conceded in ten Premier League matches, and none in any competition since September 28!

With Arsenal’s set-piece prowess and Gabriel’s aerial threat, there’s every chance he chips in at both ends of the pitch. A clean sheet feels close to guaranteed, and if you are Gabriel, there’s a good chance every setpiece feels like a goal, too.

Final whistle

Erling Haaland will still be the most obvious pick and rightly so. But in Fantasy – much like in life – fortune favors the bold.

Whether you go all-in on Mateta’s form, bank on Saka’s brilliance, or trust Gabriel’s defensive dominance, Gameweek 10 offers plenty of ways to climb the ranks without following the crowd.

Whatever you decide, make sure to save your team before 11:00 GMT on Saturday!