The Etihad showcased the best and worst of English football. Arsenal almost turned back the clock with their back five frustrating all-comers. Riccardo Calafiori’s stunning goal echoed Ronaldinho’s improvisational brilliance. Manchester City’s opener by Erling Haaland was equally impressive. The negatives included a referee taking center stage and often losing control. Michael Oliver should not be the headline after this clash of Premier League titans, but likely will be. Sending off Leandro Trossard was justified, though the Belgian was foolish, sparking the usual conspiracies that now plague elite football. Arsenal then resorted to gamesmanship, with both benches behaving like petulant children. City’s poor performance until John Stones’ goal, and Rúben Dias’ lack of attacking prowess, will worry Pep Guardiola. Rodri’s injury is also a concern; without him, City are weaker. Mikel Arteta might question Arsenal’s composure; 10 men need not mean complete submission.
Nuno Espírito Santo’s proactive substitutions made a difference in Nottingham Forest’s draw against Brighton, extending their unbeaten start to the season. Forest were trailing 2-1 at halftime but Nuno’s four changes within the first 15 minutes of the second half led to a hard-earned point. Jota Silva and Ramón Sosa combined for the equalizer. Nuno’s willingness to make positive changes shows the depth at Forest’s disposal, suggesting they won’t be dragged into trouble after finishing one place above the relegation zone last season.
Enzo Maresca’s lack of experience was a concern, but he has shown few issues stepping up from winning the Championship with Leicester. Chelsea, away from home, have become a formidable force. Maresca’s attacking approach, with wingers like Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho, has been vindicated. His detailed preparation gives players the confidence to perform, as Tosin Adarabioyo noted. Maresca’s background as a West Brom midfielder and assistant to Pep Guardiola makes his appointment look smart.
Ismaïla Sarr has only completed 90 minutes once since joining Crystal Palace, but he was arguably Palace’s best player against Manchester United. Playing as a center-forward, he was quick, direct, and aggressive. Whether this is a long-term plan or a specific tactic to exploit United’s shape is unclear, but Sarr’s performance suggests he’s close to a starting role.
Aston Villa’s depth proved crucial in their comeback win over Wolves. Unai Emery’s halftime changes, including bringing on Leon Bailey and Ross Barkley, turned the tide. Villa’s fresh energy off the bench made the difference, with Bailey and Barkley impressing. Villa’s belief in their ability to come from behind was key.
The weather at a Premier League match can be unpredictable. Sean Dyche and Steve Cooper couldn’t recall a match played in such a storm. The first half was played in thunder, lightning, and torrential rain, raising concerns about player and spectator safety. The game resumed after a delay, but the conditions were challenging.
Fulham’s 3-1 victory over Newcastle featured standout performances from Reiss Nelson, Emile Smith Rowe, and Adama Traoré. Traoré was a bulldozer on the right, contributing to both goals. Anthony Gordon’s performance was less impactful, raising questions about his positional conundrum.
Southampton and Ipswich remain winless, but Kieran McKenna’s trajectory is upward, while Russell Martin faces rumors of replacement. Martin’s early-season struggles might be premature, but pressure is mounting. A win against Ipswich could have eased the pressure, but there were positives, including Tyler Dibling’s first senior goal.
Andoni Iraola’s decision to change his first-choice goalkeeper late in the transfer window raised eyebrows. Kepa Arrizabalaga’s arrival and Neto’s departure were bold moves. Arrizabalaga’s performance at Anfield had highs and lows, but Iraola believes he can extract the best from his new signing.
Brentford’s early-season fixtures have been tough, with defeats at Anfield, the Etihad, and Tottenham. Despite individual errors gifting goals, Brentford showed purpose and bravery. Thomas Frank’s team has winnable home fixtures ahead, offering potential respite.
