Fantasy Premier League managers should prepare for a series of significant rule changes ahead of the 2025/26 season. The new rules aim to reward defensive contributions, simplify assist criteria, and adjust chip availability to enhance strategic depth.
Outfield players can now earn points for defensive actions. Defenders will receive two extra points if they achieve a combined total of 10 clearances, blocks, interceptions, and tackles (CBIT) in a single match. Midfielders and forwards require 12 defensive contributions (CBIRT, including ball recoveries) to earn the same bonus.
Assist rules have been simplified. An assist will be awarded if the goalscorer receives the ball inside the penalty box and there is only one defensive touch before the goal, regardless of the pass's intended destination. However, no assist is given if the defensive touch is a pass, if the goalscorer loses and regains possession, or if there are two defensive touches. For goals scored from outside the box, intended destination remains a factor.
Additional assist changes include recognition for forced defensive errors and handball situations. If a goal is scored from a free-kick or penalty conceded due to a handball, an assist goes to the last attacking player before the handball, even if the handball was not forced. No assist is awarded if another defensive touch precedes the handball.
Chip allocation has been revised. Managers will now have two sets of chips for the season, one for each half. The first set must be used before the Gameweek 19 deadline on 30 December 2025, and chips cannot be carried over. Notably, the Assistant Manager chip, introduced last season, has been removed.
To help managers navigate the Africa Cup of Nations (21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026), additional free transfers will be available in Gameweek 16, with the total topped up to the maximum possible number.
