Man United weak against mid-level teams
Ruben Amorim has shown his mettle at Manchester United against big opponents, from Europe's top clubs to Premier League forces. He helped the team win at the Etihad, drew with Liverpool at Anfield and defeated Arsenal on penalties.
However, the paradox is that Amorim's Man United are often stuck when facing mid-range opponents. Since taking over last November, he has led the team through 14 meetings with clubs that finished 7th to 17th in the season.
As a result, Man United have won just two, drawn two and lost 10 games, earning eight of their maximum four points. One of those two victories came away to Fulham with a score of 1-0.
At Craven Cottage this time, luck was not on their side. If last season Leny Yoro escaped a penalty after pushing Calvin Bassey to open the scoring, this time Man United missed the opportunity. They played better in the first 20 minutes, but the remaining 75 minutes were entirely up to Fulham.
Jack Grealish's return
Coach David Moyes's advice to Jack Grealish is very simple, but it has become a release for the winger who was loaned to Everton after two difficult seasons at Manchester City.
"I just want Jack Grealish to face it directly and always play positively. He has a great ability to get the ball forward," said the Everton captain.
And Grealish quickly responded to Moyes' confidence. In his brilliant home debut against Everton, the 29-year-old made a big impact with two assists - more than his long time at Man City since he last made his mark in September 2024.
Richarlison proves his worth for Thomas Frank
After scoring twice against Burnley, Richarlison continued to be the decisive factor in Tottenham's resounding victory over Man City. Once rumored to be part of an agreement involving Eberechi Eze, the Brazilian striker has now proven his worth under new coach Thomas Frank.
"That's very important. Since I arrived here, every transfer window has been subject to the possibility of leaving - returning to Brazil or anywhere else. But I have always focused on Tottenham, and have never thought about leaving.
Now I'm in a great moment. I want to continue to work hard and give my all. Hopefully I can maintain and play like this" - Richarlison shared about the conversation with Frank.
Zubimendi shows Arsenal's new approach
Arsenal have introduced a new "weapon" this season. Against Leeds, they surprised with their fast and powerful counter-attacks.
The home side almost opened the scoring when Martin Zubimendi - who was seen as the deepest back half - caught a shot from Leeds' defence. Viktor Gyokeres missed the opportunity, but this tactic quickly took effect.
Declan Rice approached to regain control, the ball immediately reached Zubimendi's feet. The Spanish midfielder passed it to Jurrien Timber, and then Bukayo Saka opened the scoring. Leeds were completely unable to resist Arsenal's approaching and flashy play.
This is a positive signal for manager Mikel Arteta, who has seen his side lose points many times in the previous season when they could not maintain a 1-0 advantage.
Arsenal have the most solid defence in the Premier League, but to reach the championship, they need more determination and the ability to finish off their opponents.
Aston Villa need change
3 statistics from Aston Villa's defeat to Brentford summarized the story of the away team. Villa have 76% possession and 17 shots - the most in a Premier League game they have failed to score since October 2022 - but have only had two on target.
Villa's attack is at a standstill, and the most obvious weakness is on the two wings. Like the goalless draw with Newcastle in the opening round, John McGinn continued to be deployed on the right wing, Morgan Rogers held the opposite wing. However, the two often get into the middle, making Villa lack width and easily predictable.
With a long drought in goals, coach Unai Emery has been forced to add at least one or two wingers in this transfer window. Otherwise, Villa will easily be neutralized for the whole season.
