EPL: 10 Important Talking Points from the Weekend's Matches
1. Elliot Anderson Gets Support from Each Managers
The Nottingham Forest midfielder featured heavily in Forest's two-nil defeat away to Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager what he lost when Premier League spending rules required the player's departure to avert a points penalty. This occurred during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has thrived since moving to Nottingham Forest. During the first half he eclipsed even Sandro Tonali and, across the match, was comfortably the Forest manager's best player. Yet mistakes can happen, and when his wayward pass presented Bruno Guimarães an opportunity, his resulting attempted tackle was ill-judged and resulted in the Newcastle player crashing in the penalty area. Guimarães had already shot Newcastle ahead from outside the box, and from the spot Nick Woltemade netted his fourth strike in his last five games. Notably, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to console the young midfielder. Should Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at the club, he will certainly be heavily dependent on his star player. The Newcastle coach, on the other hand, would love to re-sign the former youth product. In case Nottingham Forest, with or without their manager, struggle, Newcastle could have an opportunity.
2. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Dampens City Win
Rodri's face said it all. As he sank to the Brentford turf gazing at the ground, there was a barely discernible disappointed gesture – though his body language spoke volumes. Another setback for the key player? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to carefully use his involvement this season since his tentative return from a serious knee injury; it's time for him to put more faith in replacements. Nico González is the first-choice alternative in the lineup, but has only started to play from the outset just one Premier League fixture since the start of the season. González was a January purchase 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 like Rodri at his best, the jury is still out.
Three. Mason Mount Climbs the Hierarchy at United
Setbacks have hampered the midfielder's United career. His inclusion in the starting lineup against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the Premier League since joining in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has always been recognized, but establishing himself and enough game time to build momentum has been a challenge. During the fixture, his touch was excellent and he offered vision and discipline in similar amounts, which might explain why Ruben Amorim selected him over Matheus Cunha. He finished brilliantly, getting the earliest goal for United since his initial match 11 months ago. Under pressure, Mount's experience could be important. “I see myself as bringing a lot of energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a driving force going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I aim to do, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”
4. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Confidence in Young Player Marshall
Nuno Espírito Santo's decision to introduce the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, rather than the more experienced Callum Wilson, was an major statement in the young Northern Irish forward who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Given that Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once between them so far in the Premier League, Marshall could receive more chances if the new manager's comments after the game are a guide. It's difficult to select a youngster in ahead of an experienced player,” said the manager. Our priority is, as rapidly, to have complete awareness of the players available. Based on training, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a good finisher, pace, he can find space in the final third. I think we have a player who can contribute.”
Five. Calm Thomas Frank Gradually Secures his Spurs Rewards
There is uncertainty how strong Tottenham can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is clear is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. After a third win from four matches on the road without defeat this season, belief is growing that Tottenham are becoming a far more cohesive and resilient outfit compared to the team which fell to their poorest season under the previous manager last term. He brings stability to Frank, who praised highly of his team’s mentality and team spirit in seeing off a pugnacious Leeds United side at a atmospheric Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had failed to defeat his rival manager and good friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but scores from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, around Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, resulted in the outcome was different. There's a long way to go, but the future appears bright for Spurs.
6. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Rise to the Occasion
Enzo Maresca desired a additional defender after the injury to Levi Colwill to a serious knee issue in pre-season. The club hierarchy had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are extensive and a rushed signing was not needed. Subsequently additional setbacks, leaving the coach short-handed. There were nerves about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile lining up against the Reds on the weekend, but it was unfounded. The 19-year-old is only 19 but many believe in his ability. The teenager handled Palace's {Jean-Philipp