#UCLFantasy Scout: matchday two squad tips
Friday, September 22, 2017
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UEFA.com picks out five players who could make an impact in the second group games.
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My team started the season with 72 points: nothing spectacular but I can't complain either. How did yours do? Do you need a quick improvement or are you out to consolidate after a brilliant start? In both cases you'll want to strengthen your squad ahead of matchday two. Here's a list of players who could help.
Sergio Rico (Sevilla, GK, €5.5m)
The 24-year-old conceded two goals at Liverpool but has kept four consecutive clean sheets in the Spanish Liga and has a great chance of adding another when Sevilla welcome Maribor in Group E.
Alexandar Kolarov (Roma, DF , €5.5m)
Roma have not conceded in four of their five competitive games this season, including the 0-0 draw against Atletico on matchday one. Moreover, Giallorossi coach Eusebio Di Francesco is asking his full-backs to constantly push forward, meaning Kolarov's powerful and educated left foot could contribute in terms of goals and assists when the Italian side visit Qarabağ.
Talisca (Beşiktaş, MF, €7.5m)
After their impressive victory at Porto on matchday one, I think Beşiktaş have a great chance to qualify in Group G especially considering their excellent home form. The creativity of Brazilian attacking midfielder Talisca – not to mention his ability from set-pieces – could be a key weapon for Şenol Güneş's team against Leipzig.
Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City, MF, €9.5m)
City are a goal machine. Either side of the 4-0 win at Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League, Pep Guardiola's team won 5-0 and 6-0 against Liverpool and Watford respectively in their domestic league. The Belgian midfielder is yet to open his account this season so the home game against Shakthar Donetsk could be a golden opportunity.
Dries Mertens (Napoli, FW, €10m)
Maurizio Sarri started with the Belgian forward on the bench against Shakhtar but considering his recent form and how the team changed after he came on in the second half, he could think twice before leaving out Mertens again. Napoli have scored 19 goals in five Serie A games with Mertens contributing six, a real beauty against Lazio included. Don't expect an easy night for Feyenoord at the Stadio San Paolo.