FPL Wildcard: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024/25
The FPL wildcard is crucial in Fantasy Premier League (FPL). With only two available per season, it’s vital to use them wisely. Let’s delve into what the FPL wildcard is, its functions, optimal timing for its use, and address some common queries.
What is the Wildcard in FPL?
The FPL wildcard allows unlimited transfers for a single game week without incurring transfer penalties. You can activate it either before or after making transfers. Typically, exceeding the one free transfer per week results in a -4 point penalty, negatively impacting your overall season performance. Using the wildcard strategically helps avoid such penalties.
How to Use Your Wildcard
Knowing when to use your wildcard is essential, but it’s equally important to know how to activate it:
On the FPL App:
- Open the app and navigate to the fantasy section.
- Tap ‘transfers.’
- Make desired transfers but do not confirm.
- Tap ‘next step’ to confirm your transfers.
- Tap ‘play wildcard.’
On the Web:
- Open fantasy.premierleague.com.
- Sign in and go to ‘transfers.’
- Make desired transfers but do not confirm.
- Click ‘make transfers.’
- Click ‘play wildcard.’
After completing these steps, you can make unlimited transfers until the next deadline without any penalties.
Best Time to Use Your Wildcard in 2024
While there’s no definitive ‘best’ time, here are some suggestions:
Early in the Season: Many managers use their wildcard early, after a few initial matches. This helps adjust based on actual performances rather than pre-season speculation.
Injury Crisis: If several players get injured in a single week, activating the wildcard allows you to replace them without multiple transfers and point deductions.
January Transfer Window: Utilise the wildcard to include newly signed players swiftly.
Double Game Week Preparations: Use your wildcard to prioritise players participating in double game weeks or plan ahead with free transfers, then reset your team afterward.
Blank Game Week Preparations: Activate your wildcard before the blank game week to field as many players as possible, or prepare in advance and use the wildcard to reset your team.
Common Questions About the Wildcard
How many wildcards do you get in FPL?
You get two wildcards per season: one for the first half and one for the second half. The first must be used before December 28, and the second can be used from December 28 onwards.
Can you cancel your wildcard?
No, once activated, you cannot reverse your decision.
Do you lose free transfers if you wildcard?
Yes, any stored free transfers are lost, and you’ll be reset to one free transfer for the next game week.
How long does the wildcard last?
Your wildcard lasts until the next deadline, allowing unlimited transfers for one game week.
What is the difference between wildcard and free hit?
Wildcard transfers are permanent, while free hit transfers reset after one game week. Use the free hit for short-term plans and the wildcard for long-term strategy.
Can you take advantage of price changes on a wildcard?
Yes, you can make unlimited transfers to avoid price falls and profit from price rises.
Does wildcard cancel hits?
Yes, if you’ve taken hits (e.g., -4 or -8), the wildcard will cancel those point deductions for that game week.
Conclusion
The FPL wildcard is a powerful tool. Use it wisely to navigate the season’s challenges and maximize your team’s potential. Plan strategically, and it can make a significant difference in your overall performance.