FPL Managers Handed Free Transfers to Tackle AFCON 2025 Disruptions

FPL managers handed free transfers to tackle AFCON 2025 disruptions will be a welcome surprise for Fantasy Premier League players navigating one of the trickiest periods of the season.

With the Africa Cup of Nations pulling big-name assets out of squads mid-campaign, Fantasy bosses are being given a boost in the form of additional free transfers – helping them stay competitive without relying on chips or panic moves

Fantasy Premier League has given managers extra help ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by offering up to five free transfers in the lead-up to the tournament. This move allows managers to handle sudden absences without spending points or using chips.

AFCON kicks off on 21 December 2025 and runs until 18 January 2026, cutting across Gameweeks 17 to 22. However, some players may leave their clubs earlier, potentially missing matches before the tournament officially starts. FPL has responded by boosting every manager’s transfer count ahead of that period.

To take full advantage, managers need to use any saved transfers before the bonus applies. FPL will top up your transfers to five, not add five on top of what you already have. For example, if you go into the week with three free transfers, you’ll only get two more – not five.

The smartest strategy? Use all your free transfers the week before, so you receive the full five when the game updates.

As well as FPL Managers Handed Free Transfers, there have been plenty more changes, check them all out with our 2025/26 Complete Guide.

Key Players Missing During AFCON

Several Fantasy favourites will leave their clubs for AFCON. Mohamed Salah, representing Egypt, stands out as the biggest name. But he won’t be the only absentee. Other players expected to take part include:

Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa (Brentford)
Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace)
Rayan Ait-Nouri and Omar Marmoush (Manchester City)

These players could miss multiple Gameweeks, depending on how far their nations go in the tournament.

Plan for What’s Next

The free transfers give managers breathing room before the second Wildcard becomes available in Gameweek 20. Once that kicks in, you’ll have another chance to rebuild and bring AFCON players back into your team.

Managers who prepare early and act decisively can turn this tricky stretch into an opportunity. Use the transfers wisely, stay ahead of price changes, and keep your squad strong through the festive chaos.