The whistle has blown, the Serie A 2025-26 season is underway, and with two matchdays already in the books, the frenetic world of fantasy football managers (fantallenatori) is abuzz. Whether you`re fine-tuning your private league roster or gearing up for a high-stakes competition, the objective remains universally exhilarating: to assemble the most competitive squad possible. But how does one navigate the labyrinthine list of players, balancing the proven titans with the elusive low-cost gems? Fear not, for this guide offers a tactical roadmap to dominate your draft, position by position.
The Goalkeeper Conundrum: Guardians of Your Clean Sheet
In fantasy football, securing a top-tier goalkeeper from an elite club can often be the difference between mid-table mediocrity and championship glory. These custodians, by virtue of playing for teams with robust defenses, inherently face fewer shots and concede fewer goals, translating directly into fewer negative points (or `malus`).
Napoli, last season`s defensive powerhouse, once again presents an interesting dilemma between Vanja Milinkovic-Savic and Alex Meret. Early signs suggest Meret is holding the starting spot, a crucial detail for your draft. Inter`s Yann Sommer remains a rock-solid, dependable choice, a safe pair of hands you can bet on. Another name rising through the ranks is Michele Di Gregorio, who impressed with 14 clean sheets last season and has started the current campaign with similar solidity.
For those seeking proven excellence, Milan`s Mike Maignan, under the defensively astute Massimiliano Allegri, is poised for a standout season. Roma`s Mile Svilar, enjoying a strong start under Gasperini with early clean sheets, is also a highly recommended pick. The experienced David De Gea and Atalanta`s improving Marco Carnesecchi also warrant consideration for their reliability.
The Art of the Bargain Save: Surprise Goalkeeper Picks
If budget constraints are a concern, look to keepers from mid-table teams who consistently perform well despite facing more pressure. Leali of Genoa and Bologna`s Skorupski have shown promising early form, conceding minimal goals in their opening fixtures. For the ultimate `1-credit` gamble, Audero, Cremonese`s starter, has already contributed to two victories, proving that even minimal investment can yield surprising returns. However, beware of the ever-present `ballottaggio` (selection battle) – Sassuolo`s Muric vs. Turati, Udinese`s Sava potentially losing his spot to Okoye upon his return, and Lazio`s Provedel against Mandas – these are the minefields where a single credit can turn into fantasy gold or fool`s gold.
Defensive Fortresses and Attacking Full-Backs: The Backbone of Your Squad
Modern fantasy football heavily rewards defenders who contribute offensively. Inter`s wing-backs, Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco, are prime examples. Dumfries, with 7 goals last season, has already opened his account, while Dimarco notched an impressive 9 assists. These players are essentially extra midfielders disguised as defenders.
Another dynamic option is Raoul Bellanova, who, despite not scoring, provided 9 assists last season, making him a consistent bonus threat. For those prioritizing defensive solidity and the `modifier` bonus (points for strong defensive ratings), Juventus`s Gleison Bremer, Napoli`s Alessandro Buongiorno, and captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo are rock-solid choices. Keep an eye on Nadir Zortea, now at Bologna, who recorded 6 goals and 2 assists last season – a testament to a defender`s scoring potential.
Reliable Roster Fillers and Unexpected Defensive Heroes
For consistent good votes without breaking the bank, consider Angelino (consistent 6.23 fantasy average last season) and Davide Zappacosta (6.48 average over 30 games). However, Zappacosta faces competition from Nicola Zalewski. Genoa`s improving duo, Aaron Martin and Johan Vasquez, could offer great value. Emanuele Valeri (2 goals, 6 assists last season) and the versatile Juan Cuadrado (listed as a defender but potentially playing further forward) are also intriguing prospects. Juventus`s Federico Gatti and Roma`s Evan Ndicka are strong modifier options.
The Defensive Wildcards: Picking the Next Big Thing
Defensive `sleepers` can provide crucial points on a shoestring budget. Joao Mario, a defender by listing but playing as a wing-back for Tudor`s system, already has an assist to his name. Milan`s new defensive additions like Koni De Winter and Zachary Athekame, alongside Napoli`s Sam Beukema and Bologna`s Martin Vitik, are all worth monitoring. And for the truly speculative, remember Honest Ahanor, the promising 2008-born talent from Atalanta – a long-term investment that could pay off handsomely if given a chance.
Midfield Maestros and Goal-Scoring Engines: The Heart of Your Team
While strikers grab the headlines for goals, midfielders are the workhorses, churning out points through assists, goals, and consistent positive ratings. Napoli`s midfield looks particularly potent with Scott McTominay and the legendary Kevin De Bruyne. Both hit the ground running, scoring in their season opener, a clear signal of their fantasy prowess.
Nico Paz of Como, a revelation last season, has already bagged a goal and an assist, establishing himself as a top midfield target. Inter`s engine room, featuring penalty-taker Hakan Calhanoglu and the dynamic Nicolò Barella, offers multiple high-value options. And in a move that certainly raised eyebrows (and fantasy valuations), Milan`s acquisition of 2018 Ballon d`Or winner Luka Modric has already yielded an assist in just two games – a testament to his enduring class, even in his twilight years.
The Reliable Core and Midfield Surprises
Beyond the superstars, you need reliable midfielders who guarantee starts and solid scores. Napoli`s Zambo Anguissa is a consistent performer with a 6.92 fantasy average over 35 games last season. Juventus`s new penalty-taker, Manuel Locatelli, immediately becomes a more attractive fantasy asset. Milan`s Ruben Loftus-Cheek, free from injuries, has shown promising form and scored early, making him a potential surprise. Stephan El Shaarawy, often playing in advanced roles despite being listed as a midfielder, is always a name to jot down.
For potential breakout stars, Inter`s Petar Sucic has already made a splash with an assist, showcasing his quality. Arthur Atta, expected to play a more advanced role, has already scored a beautiful goal. Romanian national captain Nicolae Stanciu, a set-piece specialist for Genoa, is a name not to be underestimated. And from the newly promoted teams, Michele Collocolo impressed on his debut, proving that even a small investment can uncover a diamond.
The Striker`s Gambit: Goals Guaranteed or High-Risk, High-Reward?
This is where the big money often goes, and for good reason: strikers deliver the goals and the biggest bonuses. Inter`s formidable duo, Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, have both started the season in blistering form, finding the net in the opening matchday. Their combined potency makes them irresistible, if expensive, picks.
Moise Kean, a top striker last season, will be looking to repeat his performance under Pioli, despite a slow start. A significant blow is the injury to Romelu Lukaku (14 goals, 10 assists in 2024-25), who will miss the first half of the season, a stark reminder of the risks involved in high-cost players.
Recommended Forwards and Hidden Goal Threats
Rafa Leao, expected to return after the international break, could play closer to goal under Allegri, making him a prime fantasy target. Riccardo Orsolini has already netted his first goal against Como, signaling his intent. Juventus`s new signing Jonathan David also scored on his debut but faces competition from the in-form Dusan Vlahovic, who has already bagged two crucial goals.
For those daring enough to hunt for value, Keinan Davis (Udinese) has become the focal point of his team`s attack and already scored a penalty against Inter – a promising sign. Patrick Cutrone, seeking redemption at Parma, immediately delivered with a crucial equalizer against Atalanta. Verona`s new forward, Giovane, has also started positively, making him a tempting low-cost option.
The Art of the “Sleeper” Pick: Where Championships Are Forged
While the allure of a star-studded squad is undeniable, true fantasy strategists understand that championships are often won through astute `sleeper` picks. These are the low-cost players, often overlooked, who explode onto the scene and deliver consistent points far exceeding their price tag. This requires deep research, a keen eye for tactical shifts, and perhaps a touch of irrational optimism. The glory of unearthing a player who becomes a fantasy revelation is unmatched.
Beyond the List: Your Personal Touch
Ultimately, this guide is a springboard, not a rigid rulebook. The beauty and frustration of fantasy football lie in its unpredictability. While data and expert opinions provide invaluable insights, your intuition, your understanding of specific team dynamics, and even your gut feeling about a player can lead to inspired decisions. The thrill of the auction, the strategic bidding, and the agonizing choices are what make Fantacalcio an annual pilgrimage for football lovers.
So, arm yourself with knowledge, trust your instincts, and may your draft be blessed with an abundance of goals, assists, and clean sheets. The 2025-26 Serie A season promises to be a rollercoaster, and with the right picks, you`ll be riding it straight to fantasy glory. Good luck, fantallenatore!