With registrations now open for 2019/20 ePremier League, we spoke with players who shone last season to find out what it was like to play in the competition, as well as getting their tips for success.
Gledis Rustemi
An avid West Ham United fan, Gledis is from London and has been playing EA SPORTS FIFA since 2009. He qualified for the ePremier League PlayStation finals last season, having only started playing FIFA competitively in November 2018.
How important is it for you to represent your club?
It's a massive opportunity that a lot of people don't get the chance to do. Personally doing the best for myself and the club is very important to me.
How did you become an ePL finalist?
I only started playing FIFA competitively last year through FIFA Ultimate Team Champions and online qualifiers.
When I saw that EA SPORTS were partnering up with the Premier League I knew I had to get involved.
How has success in the ePL helped you progress into the professional scene?
While I didn't enjoy much success at the ePL Finals, it changed my life in terms of meeting and speaking with people that before the event I would have never been in contact with.
What did it feel like to qualify for the club playoffs?
I was lost for words. Qualifying is definitely up there as one of the greatest moments in my life.
What was it like representing West Ham in the finals?
It was beyond belief representing the team you watch week in week out and having that responsibility to perform on the virtual pitch. It was a moment to remember and hopefully something I can do again.
Top three tips for anyone new to the ePL?
1. Have fun
2. Make the most of the opportunity as it's not something that comes around very often
3. Give it your all
What advice would you give amateurs for setting up their team for playing online?
Make sure you use players who suit your tactics so you feel confident in your ability.
What formation and tactics work best for you when playing online?
The one that I tend to use most is 4-2-3-1 as it's been my favoured formation over the years and the one that I feel most comfortable with.
How can new players get up to speed on Ultimate Team as quickly as possible for online qualification?
Play game modes such as division rivals and FUT Champions to build up the most rewards to improve your team.
What sets the ePL apart from other competitions?
The connection to the Premier League is what makes the whole competition different because you live and breathe it and get a sense of what it might be like playing in the PL.
Other competitions don't give that feeling.
