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1. Anderson Receives Encouragement from Both Managers

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Nottingham Forest's 2-0 setback away to Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager the player he had to sell when top-flight financial regulations forced the player's sale to avoid a sanction. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has excelled ever since his switch to Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he outshone even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was clearly the Forest manager's standout individual. Yet the player is only human, and when his misplaced ball presented the Brazilian midfielder an chance, his following attempted tackle was poorly timed and caused Guimarães falling in the box. The Brazilian had already fired the Magpies into the lead from 25 yards, and from the spot the striker scored his fourth goal in his last five games. Tellingly, at the conclusion, both the Forest boss and Howe made obvious gestures to console Anderson. In the event that Forest's manager is to establish himself at Forest, he will undoubtedly be leaning on his star player. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would be keen to bring back the homegrown talent. In case Forest, whether or not they have Postecoglou, fail to improve, Newcastle might get another opportunity.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Setback Mars Manchester City Success

His look said it all. When he went down to the Brentford pitch gazing at the ground, there was a almost imperceptible shake of the head – though his body language spoke volumes. A new problem for the Spanish midfielder? That appeared to be the case. 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 trust other options. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, however has only been selected to start a single league match since the start of the season. González was a £49.8m signing and will be called upon more regularly after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in the capital. As to whether he can bring a measure of control like Rodri at his best, the jury is still out.

Three. Mount Climbs the Ranking at United

Fitness issues have hampered Mason Mount's United career. Being named in the first XI against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the league since arriving in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has always been recognized, but securing a regular role and regular playing time to regain his best has been difficult. In the latest match, his first touch was superb and he offered creativity and work rate in similar amounts, which could be the reason why the United manager preferred him to the alternative option. He took his goal brilliantly, scoring the quickest opener for Amorim's team since his debut as manager almost a year ago. In an intense environment, his know-how could be crucial. My role is providing energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a key instigator going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I aim to do, helping the people around me and really bringing the energy. To get the goal was hugely important for me.”

4. Nuno Shows Faith in Young Player Marshall

The West Ham manager's choice to bring on Callum Marshall for his bow at the Emirates against the Gunners, instead of the established Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Ireland attacker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield Town. Since Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and the German striker have scored only once together so far in the Premier League, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's comments after the game are anything to go by. It's a tough decision to select a youngster in over an experienced player,” said Nuno. We need, as quickly, to have a full understanding of our squad options. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a good finisher, pace, he can recognize the gaps in the attack. In my view we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Composed Frank Steadily Secures his Spurs Progress

There is uncertainty how strong Tottenham can be this season, least of all themselves. What is evident is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. With a third success from a solid away record this campaign, belief is growing that Tottenham are developing into a much more united and resilient outfit than the squad which dropped to their lowest league position under the previous manager last term. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and collective desire in defeating a pugnacious Leeds United side at a raucous, windswept their home ground. Frank had not beaten his opposite number and good friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but goals from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, around Noah Okafor's leveler before the break, ensured the result went his way. The season is young, but things are looking up for Spurs.

6. Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca desired a reinforcement at the back after being without Levi Colwill to a long-term problem ahead of the campaign. His bosses disagreed. The playing staff are strong and a rushed signing was not required. Then came further fitness issues, leaving the coach stretched. There was concern about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile lining up against the Reds on the weekend, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is only 19 but he is highly rated. The teenager dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp