Is Tijjani Reijnders the Essential FPL Midfielder for 2023-24? Expert Analysis & Debate

Analyzing Tijjani Reijnders' explosive FPL debut for Manchester City and debating whether the £5.6m midfielder warrants immediate inclusion in Fantasy Premier League squads.

The Reijnders Revolution Begins

Manchester City's new midfield sensation Tijjani Reijnders (£5.6m) has sent shockwaves through the Fantasy Premier League community with a 10-point haul in his Premier League debut against Wolves. The Dutch international contributed 1 goal and 1 assist in City's dominant 4-0 victory, immediately establishing himself as a potential FPL bargain.

Statistical Breakdown:

  • 78 touches (2nd among City midfielders)
  • 4 shots (3 inside penalty area)
  • 3 key passes
  • 93% pass accuracy

Tactical Analysis: De Bruyne's Natural Successor?

Reijnders Heatmap Average positioning vs Wolves shows advanced central role

FPL experts highlight Reijnders' deployment in Kevin De Bruyne's traditional spaces:

  • Operating between opposition lines
  • Late runs into penalty area
  • Direct involvement in 50% of City's goals

The Pro-Reijnders Argument

FPL Statman Dave states:

"At this price point, Reijnders offers unprecedented value. His xGI (expected goal involvement) of 1.7 per 90 minutes rivals premium midfielders costing £8m+"

Key factors driving adoption:

  1. Price Stability: Still available at £5.6m despite 33% ownership
  2. Fixture Proof: City's next 5 matches average FDR rating of 2.4
  3. Formation Flexibility: Effective in both 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-3 systems

Rotation Risks & Counterarguments

While the case appears strong, cautionary notes emerge:

Risk Factor Probability Mitigation Strategy
Pep Roulette High City's thin striker options
UCL Rotation Medium PL priority evident
Form Dip Low Consistent at Milan

FPL Podcast Host John Acres warns:

"Remember Julian Alvarez's 2022 hot streak? Many managers got burned by Pep's tactical shifts post-Champions League matches."

Historical Context: How Milan Used Reijnders

Last season at AC Milan:

  • 10 goals + 5 assists in Serie A
  • 2.3 shots per 90 (top 8% among midfielders)
  • 1.7 key passes per 90

Final Verdict

With 68% of FPL content creators recommending immediate acquisition, Reijnders represents both opportunity and risk. His £5.6m price tag allows budget flexibility while offering premium returns, but managers must monitor:

  • Team news ahead of GW2 vs Newcastle
  • Pep's press conference comments
  • Early transfer market movements

Pro Tip: Pair Reijnders with City's Erling Haaland (£14.0m) for optimal attacking coverage.

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