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One. Anderson Receives Support from The Two Bosses

The Nottingham Forest midfielder was prominent during Nottingham Forest's 2-0 setback at Newcastle, demonstrating Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when Premier League financial regulations forced the player's departure to avert a points penalty. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has rarely looked back his switch to Forest. During the initial 45 minutes he surpassed even Sandro Tonali and, overall, was clearly the Forest manager's top performer. However mistakes can happen, and when his loose pass offered the Brazilian midfielder an chance, his subsequent recovery tackle was poorly timed and resulted in Guimarães falling in the box. Guimarães had previously shot Newcastle into the lead from long range, and from the spot Nick Woltemade converted his fourth of the season in five starts. Notably, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to console Anderson. If Forest's manager is to establish himself at the club, he will certainly be reliant upon the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. In case Forest, regardless of their manager, struggle, Newcastle may yet be in with a chance.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Dampens City Win

Rodri's face told its own story. As he sank to the Brentford pitch staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible disappointed gesture – though his demeanor spoke volumes. A new problem for the City star? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has tried his best to manage Rodri's game time this season since his return from injury from a significant knee problem; now he must put more faith in replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the most obvious replacement in the lineup, but has only been trusted to play from the outset just one Premier League fixture since the start of the season. The former Porto man was a January purchase and will be required to contribute frequently after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in the capital. On whether he can bring a measure of control similar to the influential midfielder, it remains to be seen.

3. Mason Mount Advances the Ranking at United

Injuries have hindered Mason Mount's United career. His start against the Black Cats was only his 17th in the Premier League since joining in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has never been questioned, but finding a position and enough game time to regain his best has proved problematic. In the latest match, his control was superb and he provided creativity and work rate in balance, which might explain why Ruben Amorim preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He took his goal expertly, scoring the quickest opener for the Red Devils since his debut as manager last season. Under pressure, his background could be crucial. “I see myself as injecting intensity into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a driving force going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Trust in Youngster Marshall

The West Ham manager's decision to send on Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates against the Gunners, instead of the veteran the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Since Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the summer – and the German striker have contributed just one goal between them so far in the Premier League, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's post-match assessment are a guide. “It’s not easy to give a debut in over Callum Wilson,” said the manager. We need, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of the players available. Based on training, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a good finisher, good mobility, he can recognize the gaps in the final third. I think we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Composed Frank Steadily Gains his Tottenham Results

It's unclear how competitive Spurs can be this campaign, especially within the squad. What is evident is that they are making progress under Thomas Frank. With a third success from a solid away record this season, optimism is rising that Tottenham are evolving into a far more cohesive and tough side compared to the team which dropped to their lowest league position under the previous manager last term. There is a calm assuredness to Frank, who was very positive of his team’s mentality and team spirit in beating a feisty Leeds United side at a raucous, windswept their home ground. Frank had not beaten his rival manager and good friend Daniel Farke in their head-to-head record, but strikes by Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, before and after Noah Okafor's leveler before the break, meant the result went his way. It is early days, but things are looking up for Tottenham.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

Enzo Maresca wanted a reinforcement at the back after being without the young defender to a knee injury before the start of the season. Chelsea's decision-makers had a different view. The playing staff are deep and a rushed signing was unnecessary. Subsequently more injuries, leaving Maresca with limited options. There were nerves about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile featuring against the Reds on Saturday, but there need not have been. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but many believe in his ability. The teenager handled Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp