DREAM TEAM: the best candidates for captaincy in the second round.

According to The Sun: Captains for the second round from the DREAM TEAM need to be chosen by today's deadline at 18:30.

Let's break down a few options.

Mohamed Salah (£7.5m) was the most popular captain in the first round with a solid score of 11 points for his supporters.

However, the No. 11 of the 'Reds' decided everything at the last moments against Bournemouth and did not shine in his game.

Liverpool plays against Newcastle at St James' Park on Monday in an uncomfortable setting due to the situation with Alexander Isak.

Salah is a top-class player who often steps up when the pressure is high, but it's understandable if managers feel doubts about him this time.

The same can be said about Erling Haaland (£7.5m).

The prolific Manchester City striker opened his account in the 2025/26 season by scoring a double against Wolverhampton, as Pep Guardiola's team displayed impressive play.

But his confrontation in the second round is not the most favorable, as Tottenham visits the Etihad this Saturday afternoon.

Thomas Frank tends to a more defensive 3-5-2 formation against strong opponents, so it's possible that Haaland will have to face Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Kevin Danso.

Many Dream Team managers consider Salah and Haaland independent of their opponents, and this is likely the right opinion — both are great choices for captaincy, but those preferring to consider opponents will be satisfied with their choice this week.

Bukayo Saka (£6.5m) is an enticing alternative, as he will have a home game against the newcomers Leeds.

However, 'Arsenal' looked sluggish in attack at 'Old Trafford' last weekend, while Daniel Farke's fighters demolished 'Everton', marking their return to the Premier League in ideal style.

However, 'Leeds' will not be enjoying a well-lit Elland Road this Saturday, and 'Arsenal' will be the clear favorite.

Victor Gyokeres may now be a major goal threat, but his debut was far from convincing; Saka is a proven performer.

Cole Palmer (£6m) was goalless in the first round but is expected to be a key player in the match against 'West Ham' tonight.

Graham Potter's coaching staff lost 3-0 to 'Sunderland' in their opening match.

The head of Chelsea's midfield has three goals in three starts against 'The Hammers'.

Don't forget that the second round includes nine Carabao Cup matches, where 11 Premier League teams will face a double challenge.

The problem is that it's not so easy to predict who will play again, as caution competes in optimal line-ups in the early rounds of the cups — will Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, or Matheus Cunha join the trip to Grimsby?

Antoine Semenyo (£4.5m) is an interesting alternative.

The talisman of 'Bournemouth' scored 16 points at Anfield last Friday night, making an explosive statement about his intentions.

'The Cherries' have the luxury of two home matches in the second week: 'Wolverhampton' (league) and 'Brentford' (cup).

What Andoni Iraola’s team did against the 'Bees' means we have a chance to get extra minutes from Semenyo midweek.

Salah and Haaland remain standard options, but there are many viable alternatives to consider.

Regardless of your choice, make sure you confirm your captain by 18:30!