EPL: 10 Major Highlights from the Weekend's Matches
1. Anderson Receives Support from Both Coaches
Elliot Anderson featured heavily in Nottingham Forest's 2-0 setback on Tyneside, demonstrating Eddie Howe the talent he parted with when Premier League profit and sustainability rules forced the player's sale to avert a points penalty. This occurred during the 2024 summer window, and Anderson has rarely looked back his switch to Forest. For much of the first half he surpassed even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was easily Ange Postecoglou's top performer. However Anderson is human, and when his wayward pass presented Bruno Guimarães an opportunity, his following recovery tackle was ill-judged and resulted in Guimarães tumbling in the penalty area. The Brazilian had previously fired Newcastle into the lead from 25 yards, and from the resulting penalty the striker converted his fourth goal in five starting appearances. Tellingly, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and Howe made concerted efforts to encourage the young midfielder. In the event that Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at the club, he will certainly be leaning on the midfielder's ability. Howe, on the other hand, would welcome the chance to buy the homegrown talent. If Forest, with or without Postecoglou, fail to improve, Newcastle could have an opportunity.
Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Dampens City Victory
His look told its own story. When he went down to the Brentford pitch gazing at the ground, there was a almost imperceptible disappointed gesture – though his body language was very telling. A new problem for the City star? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has attempted to limit Rodri's game time this campaign since his comeback from a serious knee injury; it's time for him to put more faith in alternatives. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, yet has only been trusted to start a single league match since the start of the season. The former Porto man was a £49.8m signing and will be called upon more frequently after his 22nd-minute introduction for Manchester City in west London. As to whether he can offer composure similar to peak Rodri, the jury is still out.
Three. Mason Mount Advances the Ranking at United
Setbacks have hindered Mason Mount's United career. His start against Sunderland was merely his 17th in the Premier League since joining in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has always been recognized, but finding a position and enough game time to regain his best has proved problematic. In the latest match, his first touch was excellent and he offered vision and discipline in equal measure, which might explain why Ruben Amorim preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He finished expertly, netting the quickest opener for United since his initial match last season. At a big club, Mount's experience could be crucial. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. To get the goal was hugely important for me.”
Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Displays Trust in Youngster Marshall
Nuno Espírito Santo's move to send on the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates against Arsenal, in place of the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield Town. Considering Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have managed only a single goal between them so far in the Premier League, Marshall could receive more chances if the Nuno's post-match assessment are a guide. “It’s not easy to give a debut in ahead of an experienced player,” said Nuno. Our priority is, as quickly, to have complete awareness of the players available. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a sharp in the box, pace, he can recognize the gaps in the space. I believe we have a player who can contribute.”
Five. Composed Frank Gradually Secures his Tottenham Rewards
Nobody seems quite sure how good Tottenham can be this season, especially within the squad. What is undeniable is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from four matches on the road without defeat this season, confidence is building that Spurs are developing into a much more united and resilient outfit compared to the team which slumped to their poorest season under Ange Postecoglou last season. He brings stability to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and unity in beating a combative Leeds side at a noisy, windy their home ground. The Tottenham boss had been unable to overcome his opposite number and friend Daniel Farke in five previous meetings, but goals from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, before and after the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, resulted in the result went his way. The season is young, but the future appears bright for Spurs.
6. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Deliver
The Chelsea manager desired a new centre-back after being without the young defender to a knee injury ahead of the campaign. His bosses had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are deep and a rushed signing was unnecessary. Subsequently further fitness issues, leaving the coach stretched. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back featuring against the Reds on the weekend, but it was unfounded. The 19-year-old is only 19 but many believe in his ability. He dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp