In the world of fantasy football, the annual Team of the Season awards are a highly anticipated event, and this year's edition is no exception. Today, we delve into the defender category, where an elite group of players is vying for recognition. From goal-scoring defenders to consistent performers, let's explore the contenders and my personal insights on this exciting poll.
The Contenders
Gabriel Magalhaes / Jurrien Timber: This dynamic duo has dominated the defensive landscape this season. Gabriel, with his impressive 208 points, is the only defender to surpass the 200-point mark, a testament to his quality. Timber, despite missing some games due to injury, has an impressive points-per-match ratio, showcasing his value as a Fantasy asset.
Marc Guehi / Nico O'Reilly: Guehi has been a consistent performer, ranking second among FPL defenders in points. His move to Manchester City has seen him maintain his solid output. However, O'Reilly has emerged as a breakout star, excelling at left-back and central midfield. His points-per-start average is exceptional, and he's poised for a significant price rise next season.
Nordi Mukiele: Mukiele has been a revelation, feeling like a 'cheat code' for Fantasy managers. Starting at a bargain price, he's delivered impressive returns, including five double-digit hauls. His value is undeniable, and he's a strong contender for the Team of the Season.
Virgil van Dijk: The Dutch defender has found the net six times this season, the most among defenders. While Liverpool's clean sheets were fewer than expected, van Dijk's overall performance is solid. His 17-point haul in Gameweek 26 is a highlight, showcasing his impact.
Marcos Senesi / Adrien Truffert / James Hill: Bournemouth's defensive trio has been a force to be reckoned with. Senesi and Truffert were regular starters, with Senesi leading the way in DefCon points. Hill, who joined the starting XI later, has become a budget favorite, combining assists with DefCon points.
James Tarkowski: Tarkowski lived up to the pre-season hype, banking DefCon points consistently. His attacking returns and clean sheets have made him a reliable option, averaging an impressive 4.6 points per match.
Maxence Lacroix: Lacroix may not get many votes, but his 154 points are no small feat. He's excelled in DefCon potential, ranking highly among FPL defenders. Despite Palace's focus on Europe, Lacroix has maintained a commendable points average.
Jan Paul van Hecke: Starting at £4.5m, van Hecke has scored the third-most points among FPL defenders in his price range. His consistency, combined with attacking threat and DefCon potential, makes him a valuable asset.
My Take
What makes this poll particularly fascinating is the diversity of defenders on display. From goal-scoring threats like Gabriel and van Dijk to consistent performers like Guehi and Tarkowski, each player brings a unique skill set. The inclusion of younger talents like Timber and O'Reilly showcases the depth of talent in the game today.
In my opinion, the key to success in Fantasy Football is identifying these hidden gems early on. Players like Mukiele and van Hecke, who started at lower prices, offer incredible value and can be game-changers. It's these players who often make the difference between a successful season and a disappointing one.
As we cast our votes, I encourage you to consider not just the raw numbers but also the impact these defenders have had on their teams. Their contributions go beyond points and statistics, and their influence on the pitch is what truly matters.
So, who will make the cut for the Team of the Season? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: these defenders have left an indelible mark on the 2025/26 season.
