FPL Gameweek 4 – Captaincy Picks

With the international break in full swing, it gives us some time to plan our armbands carefully. Form, fixtures, and injuries are all shaping captaincy decisions. Prices mentioned are accurate as of 04/09/2025. Here’s your guide to the top captaincy picks heading into GW4.

Jean-Phillipe Mateta – Crystal Palace

After scoring his first goal of the campaign last weekend, Jean-Phillipe Mateta will be looking to continue his form against newly promoted Sunderland. The only risk is how Palace’s attack will function if Ismaila Sarr, who is currently flagged, doesn’t play. Regardless, Crystal Palace are in stellar form and will aim for a convincing result, making Mateta a solid captaincy option.

Mohammed Salah – Liverpool

Despite not yet recapturing the record-breaking form of 2024/25, Mohammed Salah remains a strong pick for GW4 against Burnley. He has already returned a goal and an assist in his opening three games and, with penalty duties, is always a reliable option. If Salah’s form worries you, Ekitike or Gakpo are worth considering as more differential alternatives. Alexander Isak may make his Liverpool debut, but minutes are uncertain, making him a risky starting choice, let alone armband choice.

Antoine Semenyo – Bournemouth

A slightly riskier pick, Antoine Semenyo will look to return to his GW1 and GW2 form after a blank against Spurs. 15 points against Liverpool and 6 against Wolves only shows what he is capable of. Brighton don’t look too convincing at the back so far this season, and we’re anticipating a high-scoring affair where Semenyo should feature in the goals.

Differential Captain – Daniel Munoz or Maxence Lacroix

Palace’s opponents, Sunderland, have only generated 2.42 npXG in their first three fixtures. Maxence Lacroix is a DEFCON monster and could deliver a clean sheet, 2+ DEFCON points, and bonus. While Lacroix is solid defencively, Daniel Munoz provides a clear attacking threat and could push further up the pitch if Sarr is absent. While Munoz hit 10 DEFCONs last week against Villa, he is slightly less consistent than Lacroix. Both are excellent differential options for managers looking to gain ground in mini-leagues.

Captaincy Strategy Tips

• Safe Picks: Stick to highly owned players who you know will start and get 90~ minutes.
• Differentials: Use Munoz or Lacroix to potentially leapfrog rivals in your mini-league.
• Rotation / Injury Risks: Keep an eye on flagged players (Sarr, Isak) and any midweek rotation news.

Picking the right captain can define your week in Fantasy Premier League. Consider fixtures, form, and stats, and select the player who gives you the best chance of points heading into Gameweek 4. Remember, go with your gut. If you’re not sure, go for the safest and highest EO pick.