EPL: 10 Key Discussion Points from the Weekend's Fixtures
1. Elliot Anderson Gets Encouragement from Each Managers
Elliot Anderson featured heavily in Nottingham Forest's 2-0 loss at Newcastle, demonstrating the Newcastle manager the talent he parted with when top-flight financial regulations compelled the midfielder's departure to avoid a sanction. That was during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has thrived since joining Forest. Throughout the initial 45 minutes he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was easily Ange Postecoglou's best player. However mistakes can happen, and when his wayward pass gave the Brazilian midfielder an chance, his resulting attempted tackle was poorly timed and sent Guimarães falling in the box. The Brazilian had previously shot the Magpies ahead from long range, and from the penalty spot the striker netted his fourth strike in five starting appearances. Significantly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to comfort the young midfielder. Should Postecoglou is to establish himself at Forest, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on Anderson's talent. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to bring back the former youth product. If Nottingham Forest, regardless of Postecoglou, continue to founder, Newcastle might get another opportunity.
Two. Rodri Setback Dampens City Win
The midfielder's expression said it all. After collapsing to the Brentford turf looking down, there was a slight shake of the head – though his demeanor was very telling. Another setback for the City star? The signs were not good. The City manager has made efforts to limit the player's minutes this campaign since his return from injury from a significant knee problem; now he must rely more on other options. Nico González is the most obvious replacement in the lineup, but has only started to begin one league game since the start of the season. The £49.8m signing was a £49.8m signing and will be needed to step up frequently after his early substitution for City in west London. Regarding if he can provide stability similar to Rodri at his best, it remains to be seen.
Three. Mount Rises the Ranking at Manchester United
Injuries have hindered the midfielder's spell with the club. Being named in the first XI against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the Premier League since joining in 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been questioned, but finding a position and regular playing time to build momentum has been a challenge. During the fixture, his control was excellent and he brought creativity and work rate in similar amounts, which might explain why Ruben Amorim preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He took his goal superbly, scoring the fastest early goal for United since his initial match almost a year ago. Under pressure, his know-how could be crucial. I consider myself bringing a lot of energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a key instigator going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I aim to do, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”
4. Nuno Demonstrates Trust in Youngster Marshall
The West Ham manager's move to introduce Callum Marshall for his bow at the Emirates against the Gunners, in place of the established Callum Wilson, was an major statement in the young Northern Ireland striker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield Town. Given that Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and the German striker have managed only a single goal together so far in the top flight, Marshall could receive more chances if the Nuno's post-game remarks are a guide. It's difficult to put a young lad in front of Callum Wilson,” said Nuno. Our priority is, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of who we have in the squad. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a clinical in front of goal, movement, he can recognize the gaps in the space. I believe we have a useful option.”
5. Composed Thomas Frank Gradually Earns his Spurs Rewards
Nobody seems quite sure how good Tottenham can be this season, especially within the squad. What is clear is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from a solid away record this season, optimism is rising that Spurs are developing into a increasingly organized and resilient outfit to the one which dropped to their poorest season under Ange Postecoglou last term. He brings stability to Frank, who was very positive of his squad's attitude and unity in defeating a feisty Leeds United side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had failed to defeat his rival manager and friend the Leeds manager in their head-to-head record, but scores from the French forward and the Ghanaian winger, around the Swiss striker's tying goal, resulted in the result went his way. The season is young, but prospects are improving for Tottenham.
6. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Deliver
The Chelsea manager wanted a additional defender after the injury to the young defender to a long-term problem ahead of the campaign. The club hierarchy had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are strong and a rushed signing was not needed. Subsequently additional setbacks, leaving Maresca short-handed. There were nerves about the teenage defender and the French centre-back featuring against Liverpool on Saturday, but their fears were misplaced. The 19-year-old is very young but many believe in his ability. The teenager handled Palace's {Jean-Philipp