English Premier League: 10 Important Highlights from the Latest Round of Action
One. Anderson Earns Support from Each Managers
Elliot Anderson featured heavily in Forest's 2-0 setback at Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager the talent he parted with when top-flight profit and sustainability rules compelled the player's sale to avert a sanction. That was during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has thrived since moving to Nottingham Forest. Throughout the opening period he outshone even Sandro Tonali and, overall, was comfortably Ange Postecoglou's top performer. But Anderson is human, and when his loose pass gave the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his resulting attempted tackle was mistimed and resulted in Guimarães crashing in the box. Guimarães had already fired the Magpies ahead from outside the box, and from the spot the striker scored his fourth of the season in five starts. Significantly, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made obvious gestures to comfort Anderson. Should Forest's manager is to survive and then thrive at Forest, he will certainly be leaning on Anderson's talent. Howe, on the other hand, would welcome the chance to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. In case Forest, with or without their manager, struggle, the Tyneside club could have an opportunity.
Two. The Spanish Midfielder Fitness Worry Dampens City Victory
The midfielder's expression told its own story. When he went down to the Brentford turf staring at his feet, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his demeanor was very telling. A fresh injury for the key player? It looked more than likely. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to manage Rodri's game time this season since his tentative return from a significant knee problem; he now has to put more faith in alternatives. Nico González is the first-choice alternative in the team, however has only been selected to start a single league match since 23 August. The former Porto man was a big-money acquisition and will be required to contribute regularly after his 22nd-minute introduction for Manchester City in the capital. As to whether he can bring a measure of control akin to Rodri at his best, it remains to be seen.
Three. Mason Mount Advances the Ranking at Manchester United
Fitness issues have hampered the midfielder's United career. His start against Sunderland was just his 17th in the Premier League since joining in 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has always been recognized, but securing a regular role and enough game time to build momentum has been a challenge. During the fixture, his first touch was impeccable and he brought inventiveness and discipline in similar amounts, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim chose him ahead of the alternative option. He scored brilliantly, scoring the earliest goal for the Red Devils since his debut as manager last season. In an intense environment, his background could be important. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I aim to do, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. To get the goal was hugely important for me.”
4. Nuno Espírito Santo Displays Trust in Young Player Callum Marshall
The West Ham manager's decision to introduce Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, rather than the veteran the seasoned forward, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Ireland striker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield. Considering Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and the German striker have managed only a single goal between them so far in the top flight, Marshall could receive more chances if the new manager's comments after the game are anything to go by. It's difficult to give a debut in front of an experienced player,” said the manager. We need, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of who we have in the squad. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a sharp in the box, pace, he can identify openings in the space. I believe we have a useful option.”
5. Calm Frank Steadily Secures his Tottenham Results
There is uncertainty how good Tottenham can be this campaign, including the players. What is clear is that they are improving under the Danish manager. After a third win from four unbeaten away games this season, confidence is building that Tottenham are evolving into a much more united and tough side compared to the team which slumped to their worst Premier League finish under the previous manager last season. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and collective desire in seeing off a combative Leeds side at a noisy, windy their home ground. Frank had failed to defeat his Leeds counterpart and friend the Leeds manager in their past five encounters, but strikes by the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, either side of Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, meant the tables were turned. It is early days, but things are looking up for Spurs.
6. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up
Enzo Maresca sought a reinforcement at the back after the injury to the young defender to a knee injury before the start of the season. His bosses thought otherwise. The playing staff are strong and a panic buy was unnecessary. Then came more injuries, leaving Maresca short-handed. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile starting against the Reds on the weekend, but their fears were misplaced. The 19-year-old is only 19 but he is highly rated. He contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp