Elite XI: Team Reveal – Bruno Fernandes Replacements & the Hugo Ekitiké Debate

The injury to Bruno Fernandes has forced Fantasy Premier League managers into decisive action ahead of the upcoming deadline. For Elite XI: Team Reveal managers, the question isn’t just who replaces Bruno, but whether restructuring to bring in Hugo Ekitiké is worth the additional transfers — and potential points hits.

With fixture swings, form concerns, and budget constraints all in play, Elite managers are split between direct midfield replacements, full squad reshuffles, and short-term pragmatism.

Here’s how four proven FPL managers are approaching the problem.

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Tom Dollimore – Avoiding the Ekitiké Restructure

World No.1 | Current rank: 70,930

Tom Dollimore is opting for minimal disruption, resisting the popular Ekitiké restructure despite acknowledging its short-term appeal.

“Lots are using this as an opportunity to reshuffle their team to get Ekitiké in. I don’t mind Ekitiké short term but I will more likely be going for Wirtz as my Bruno replacement.”

Rather than chasing the forward template, Dollimore highlights a key Fantasy Premier League consideration: transfer efficiency.

“I don’t like the number of transfers required to reshuffle the team to get Ekitiké in & out in an efficient way.”

Key takeaway:
✔️ Prioritises long-term structure
❌ Avoids multiple transfers for a short-term forward punt

This is a classic elite-level FPL approach — protecting future flexibility rather than reacting aggressively to injury news.

Tarek Balbaa – Willing to Take the Hit for Ekitiké

10× Top 10k | Current rank: 26,340

Unlike Dollimore, Tarek Balbaa is embracing the shake-up, even if it means taking a points hit.

“With only one FT and with Ekitiké looking like a great option with Wolves, Leeds & Burnley it’s hard to ignore him.”

Balbaa plans a two-move hit, reshaping both midfield and forward lines:

“Most probably I will be doing Bruno to Rice & Thiago to Ekitiké for a hit.”

He openly acknowledges the downside.

“It could easily backfire… but I am willing to chance it.”

Key takeaway:
✔️ Fixture-led aggression
✔️ Happy to sacrifice points for upside
❌ Accepts risk against short-term fixtures

This is a high-variance Fantasy Premier League play, underpinned by strong conviction in Ekitiké’s role.

Mark Mansfield – Still Deciding on the Ekitiké Switch

7× Top 10k | Current rank: 83,080

Mark Mansfield sits firmly between caution and aggression, already purchasing Cunha but still assessing whether Ekitiké justifies further surgery.

“Cunha is in already… Bruno left the door wide open for him.”

However, Ekitiké isn’t a lock yet.

“With two transfers I’ll consider whether to devise a cunning plan to turn Thiago into Ekitiké.”

Mansfield frames the decision around one fundamental FPL question:

“First, is it really a good move?”

Key takeaway:
✔️ Keeps options open
✔️ Avoids knee-jerk transfers
❓ Awaiting clarity before committing

This reflects a measured Elite XI mindset, balancing form, fixtures, and opportunity cost.

Corey Baker – Ekitiké as a Season-Defining Must-Own

5× Top 10k | Current rank: 111,500

Corey Baker is the most decisive of the group. With Isak ruled out long-term, Ekitiké becomes essential in his view.

“Isak is out for pretty much the entire season making Ekitiké an absolute must own.”

Acting early, Baker moved aggressively to beat price rises:

“I had already made my move on Saturday night… Cunha + Ekitiké.”

Bruno’s injury may impact Manchester United’s attacking output, but Baker remains comfortable with the outcome.

“It’s not the end of the world… I suspect Cunha will be fine.”

Key takeaway:
✔️ Proactive price-led strategy
✔️ Commits fully to the new forward structure
❌ Forced adaptation after Bruno injury

This is decisive Fantasy Premier League risk management — acting early and accepting uncertainty.

Final Comparison: What Can FPL Managers Learn?

There’s no consensus — and that’s telling. Even elite Fantasy Premier League managers are split on whether Hugo Ekitiké is worth structural upheaval, making Bruno Fernandes replacements one of the most defining decisions of the Gameweek.

Managers looking for clarity can track exactly what all Elite XI: Team Reveal managers are doing inside the tool. With 80 combined top 10k finishes, these are some of the most proven minds in FPL. You can also sign up to push notifications to be alerted instantly whenever any Elite XI manager makes a transfer — ensuring you never miss a key move before the deadline.

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