Premier League: Ten Major Talking Points from the Latest Round of Action
One. Anderson Earns Sympathy from The Two Managers
Elliot Anderson was prominent during Forest's two-nil defeat away to Newcastle, demonstrating Eddie Howe what he lost when Premier League financial regulations required the midfielder's transfer to prevent a sanction. This occurred back in the summer of 2024, and the England international has excelled ever since moving to Nottingham Forest. For much of the opening period he outshone even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was easily the Forest manager's standout individual. Yet the player is only human, and when his wayward pass gave Bruno Guimarães an chance, his resulting recovery tackle was poorly timed and sent the Newcastle player tumbling in the area. The Brazilian had earlier shot Newcastle into the lead from 25 yards, and from the resulting penalty Nick Woltemade scored his fourth of the season in five starts. Tellingly, at the end of the match, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to encourage Anderson. In the event that Postecoglou is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will undoubtedly be leaning on his star player. The Newcastle coach, on the other hand, would welcome the chance to bring back the Newcastle academy graduate. Should Nottingham Forest, regardless of Postecoglou, fail to improve, the Tyneside club might get another opportunity.
Two. Rodri Fitness Worry Dampens City Win
His look said it all. When he went down to the Brentford pitch looking down, there was a barely discernible shake of the head – though his posture spoke volumes. A fresh injury for the City star? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has tried his best to carefully use Rodri's game time this season since his tentative return from a significant knee problem; now he must rely more on other options. Nico González is the most obvious replacement in City's squad, yet has only been trusted to start one league game since the start of the season. The former Porto man was a January purchase and will be needed to step up regularly after his introduction as a substitute for City in the capital. On whether he can provide stability akin to peak Rodri, opinions are divided.
3. Mason Mount Rises the Ranking at United
Fitness issues have affected the midfielder's time at United. His inclusion in the starting lineup against the Black Cats was only his 17th in the league since arriving in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been questioned, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to build momentum has been a challenge. In the latest match, his control was impeccable and he offered vision and tactical awareness in equal measure, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim selected him over the alternative option. He finished expertly, getting the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his debut as manager 11 months ago. In an intense environment, his know-how could be crucial. “I see myself as injecting intensity 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. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”
Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Faith in Young Player Callum Marshall
The West Ham manager's move to send on Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, instead of the established the seasoned forward, was an enormous show of faith in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield. Since Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once together so far in the Premier League, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's post-match assessment are any indication. “It’s not easy to put a young lad in front of an experienced player,” said the manager. We need, as quickly, to have complete awareness of our squad options. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a sharp in the box, good mobility, he can recognize the gaps in the attack. I think we have a useful option.”
5. Assured Frank Gradually Secures his Spurs Rewards
Nobody seems quite sure how good Tottenham can be this season, including the players. What is evident is that they are making progress under Thomas Frank. With a third success from four unbeaten away games this campaign, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a far more cohesive and tough side compared to the team which dropped to their poorest season under the previous manager last term. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his players' mindset and collective desire in defeating a combative Leeds United side at a noisy, windy their home ground. The Tottenham boss had failed to defeat his rival manager and good friend Daniel Farke in five previous meetings, but goals from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, around Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, ensured the tables were turned. There's a long way to go, but things are looking up for Tottenham.
6. Acheampong and Badiashile Rise to the Occasion
Enzo Maresca desired a new centre-back after being without the young defender to a long-term problem in pre-season. His bosses thought otherwise. Chelsea’s resources are strong and a rushed signing was not needed. Then came additional setbacks, leaving Maresca with limited options. Some were worried about the teenage defender and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on Saturday, but their fears were misplaced. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but many believe in his ability. He contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp