Who is a “Differential” Player — and Why Do They Make a Real Impact in Fantasy Football?
In Fantasy Premier League, relying solely on the most popular star players — the ones found in nearly every squad — might bring stability, but it won’t set you apart.
The real difference is made by a unique type of player known as a “Differential.” These are low-ownership picks — often held by just a small percentage of managers — who deliver big returns and decisive points, all while usually being more affordable compared to the mainstream heavy-hitters.
The rise of a differential isn’t just a lucky break — it’s a strategic opportunity for those who know when to strike. They don’t generate media buzz. They’re not in every YouTuber’s team. But choosing the right one, at the right moment, can be the difference between an average season and a legendary one.
Across all 38 game weeks, many of these hidden gems proved their worth, becoming the secret weapons for bold managers who dared to go against the crowd.
Top Differential Players of the Season: Surprise Picks That Changed the FPL Landscape
During the 2024/2025 season, several unexpected names emerged as key FPL assets, defying all preseason predictions. Despite maintaining low ownership throughout most gameweeks, these players delivered outstanding numbers, turning into golden picks for those bold enough to take the risk.
Here are the standout names that became true differential phenomena this season:
1-Liam Delap (Ipswich Town)
Despite playing for newly promoted Ipswich Town, widely considered one of the league’s weakest sides, Liam Delap turned expectations on their head. He scored 12 goals and earned over 100 FPL points, all while maintaining an ownership below 5% for most of the season.
Delap was a rare and unconventional pick — but for the few managers who recognized the right time to bring him in, his impact was massive. A true differential gem that rewarded sharp timing and bold decision-making.
2-Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United)
As West Ham’s attacking leader and emotional core, Jarrod Bowen remained largely underappreciated in the media compared to other English stars — yet he thrived as one of the best differentials of the season.
Featuring in 30 matches, Bowen scored 13 goals and provided 8 assists, earning over 170 FPL points. His contributions were crucial in keeping West Ham comfortably in the Premier League, making him a smart and rewarding pick for managers who included him in their squads.
3-Yoane Wissa (Brentford)
Yoane Wissa was undoubtedly one of the standout differentials of the season in Brentford’s squad. Alongside Bryan Mbeumo and Kevin Schade, he formed a dangerous attacking trio that posed a constant threat to opposition defenses.
Wissa scored 19 goals and provided 4 assists, playing a crucial role in Brentford’s success. Despite his impressive performances and earning over 150 FPL points, his ownership rarely exceeded 10%, securing his place as one of the top differential picks of the 2024/2025 season.
4-Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace)
A regular recommendation from us at Fantasy24.club, Jean-Philippe Mateta proved his worth and reliability throughout the season. He scored 14 goals and provided 2 assists, earning over 130 FPL points.
Despite his low ownership, Mateta stood out as one of the best differential picks for managers seeking a forward who could truly make a difference. He was a quiet performer — but a game-changer for those who trusted him.
5-Jacob Murphy (Newcastle United)
The winger who shone quietly in the shadow of Isak, Jacob Murphy delivered a standout season away from the spotlight. He was involved in 20 goals — scoring 8 and assisting 12 — and earned over 140 FPL points.
His ownership stayed below 10% for most of the season, only rising slightly during double gameweeks. While many FPL managers focused on Anthony Gordon, who ultimately fell short of expectations, Murphy proved to be the more consistent and rewarding differential for those who looked beyond the obvious.
6-Anthony Elanga (Nottingham Forest)
Despite a slow start, Anthony Elanga emerged as one of Nottingham Forest’s standout performers this season. The team came remarkably close to securing a Champions League spot before slipping out of contention in the final gameweek — but Elanga’s impact remained undeniable.
The former Manchester United winger scored 6 goals and provided 11 assists, racking up 145 FPL points. With ownership never exceeding 10%, Elanga proved to be a brilliant differential pick, rewarding managers who spotted his potential early and trusted him through the run-in.
Season Wrap-Up: Did You Play the Differential Game Right?
In the world of Fantasy Premier League, victories aren’t built on star names alone — real gains often come from bold decisions, like bringing in a differential at just the right moment.
As this season proved, it was often the so-called “forgotten” names that had the biggest impact, rewarding managers who knew exactly where the points would come from.
For more analysis, insights, and the kind of FPL advice that gives you the edge, stay tuned with Fantasy24.club — where we see the game from angles others simply overlook.
