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1. Anderson Earns Support from Each Managers

The Nottingham Forest midfielder was prominent during Forest's two-nil setback at Newcastle, showing Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when top-flight profit and sustainability rules required the player's transfer to prevent a points deduction. It happened back in the summer of 2024, and Anderson has rarely looked back moving to Nottingham Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, overall, was easily Ange Postecoglou's best player. But mistakes can happen, and when his misplaced ball gave Bruno Guimarães an chance, his following recovery tackle was ill-judged and caused Guimarães tumbling in the area. The Brazilian had already fired the Magpies into the lead from 25 yards, and from the spot Nick Woltemade netted his fourth goal in his last five games. Significantly, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to comfort Anderson. Should Forest's manager is to establish himself at Forest, he will inevitably be reliant upon the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would be keen to re-sign the homegrown talent. If Forest, regardless of their manager, continue to founder, the Tyneside club could have an opportunity.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Setback Dampens Manchester City Win

His look said it all. As he sank to the Brentford pitch gazing at the ground, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his body language spoke volumes. Another setback for the City star? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has attempted to carefully use Rodri's game time this campaign since his tentative return from a long-term layoff; now he must put more faith in alternatives. Nico González is the most obvious replacement in City's squad, but has only been trusted to begin one league game since 23 August. González was a big-money acquisition and will be needed to step up frequently after his introduction as a substitute for City in the capital. On whether he can offer composure similar to peak Rodri, it remains to be seen.

3. Mount Rises the Pecking Order at Manchester United

Fitness issues have hampered the midfielder's time at United. His inclusion in the starting lineup against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the Premier League since signing in 2023 from his former club. His quality has always been recognized, but finding a position and sufficient minutes to play himself into form has been a challenge. On Saturday, his control was impeccable and he provided inventiveness and discipline in similar amounts, which might explain why the United manager selected him over Matheus Cunha. He took his goal expertly, scoring the earliest goal for United since his first game in charge almost a year ago. At a big club, his know-how could be crucial. I consider myself bringing a lot of energy into the team and initiating the press at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I aim to do, supporting my teammates and really adding intensity. To get the goal was obviously massive for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Displays Trust in Youngster Callum Marshall

The West Ham manager's choice to introduce the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, rather than the more experienced Callum Wilson, was an enormous show of faith in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland forward who had a loan spell at Huddersfield. Since Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have managed only a single goal between them so far in the Premier League, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's comments after the game are anything to go by. “It’s not easy to give a debut in front of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. “It’s important for us, as quickly, to have a full understanding of who we have in the squad. Based on training, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a good finisher, movement, he can find space in the space. I believe we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Calm Frank Slowly Gains his Spurs Rewards

There is uncertainty how strong Spurs can be this season, especially within the squad. What is undeniable is that they are making progress under the Danish manager. After a third win from four unbeaten away games this campaign, optimism is rising that Tottenham are developing into a much more united and resilient outfit to the one which slumped to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou previously. There is a calm assuredness to Frank, who was very positive of his team’s mentality and collective desire in defeating a combative Leeds side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. Frank had not beaten his opposite number and good friend the Leeds manager in five previous meetings, but goals from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, either side of the Swiss striker's first-half equaliser, ensured the outcome was different. The season is young, but things are looking up for Tottenham.

6. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Step Up

The Chelsea manager wanted a reinforcement at the back after the injury to the young defender to a knee injury in pre-season. The club hierarchy thought otherwise. The playing staff are deep and a rushed signing was not needed. Then came more injuries, leaving the coach stretched. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on Saturday, but their fears were misplaced. Acheampong is only 19 but few doubt his potential. He contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp