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1. Elliot Anderson Receives Support from The Two Bosses

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Forest's two-nil defeat at Newcastle, showing Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when top-flight profit and sustainability rules required the player's transfer to avert a sanction. It happened in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has excelled ever since his switch to Forest. Throughout the initial 45 minutes he outshone even Sandro Tonali and, overall, was easily Ange Postecoglou's top performer. But the player is only human, and when his wayward pass presented the Brazilian midfielder an opening, his resulting recovery tackle was ill-judged and caused the Newcastle player crashing in the area. The Brazilian had earlier shot Newcastle ahead from 25 yards, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade scored his fourth strike in five starting appearances. Notably, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to comfort Anderson. In the event that Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will inevitably be reliant upon his star player. The Newcastle coach, on the other hand, would welcome the chance to buy the homegrown talent. If Forest, with or without Postecoglou, continue to founder, Newcastle could have an opportunity.

2. The Spanish Midfielder Setback Overshadows City Success

Rodri's face said it all. After collapsing to the Brentford turf gazing at the ground, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his posture was very telling. A fresh injury for the City star? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to carefully use his involvement this campaign since his return from injury from a significant knee problem; he now has to rely more on other options. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in the lineup, however has only been selected to start a single league match since 23 August. González was a January purchase and will be needed to step up more often after his early substitution for City in the capital. As to whether he can bring a measure of control similar to Rodri at his best, opinions are divided.

3. Mason Mount Advances the Hierarchy at United

Injuries have affected the midfielder's time at United. Being named in the first XI against Sunderland was only his 17th in the Premier League since arriving in 2023 from his former club. His ability has never been in doubt, but establishing himself and regular playing time to build momentum has been a challenge. On Saturday, his touch was impeccable and he provided creativity and tactical awareness in equal measure, which perhaps influenced why Ruben Amorim preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He took his goal brilliantly, netting the fastest early goal for United since his initial match 11 months ago. In an intense environment, his know-how could be crucial. My role is 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 focus on, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. To get the goal was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Demonstrates Confidence in Young Player Callum Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to bring on Callum Marshall for his bow at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the veteran Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland attacker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield Town. Given that Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and the German striker have scored only once combined so far in the Premier League, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's comments after the game are any indication. It's difficult to give a debut in over Callum Wilson,” said Nuno. We need, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of who we have in the squad. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a good finisher, good mobility, he can find space in the space. In my view we have a useful option.”

5. Composed Frank Steadily Earns his Spurs Progress

There is uncertainty how competitive Tottenham can be this campaign, especially within the squad. What is clear is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from a solid away record this campaign, belief is growing that Spurs are developing into a far more cohesive and tough side than the squad which dropped to their worst Premier League finish under the previous manager last term. He brings stability to the manager, who praised highly of his players' mindset and unity in seeing off a pugnacious Leeds side at a atmospheric Elland Road. Frank had been unable to overcome his Leeds counterpart and good friend the Leeds manager in five previous meetings, but goals from Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, before and after Noah Okafor's leveler before the break, resulted in the result went his way. The season is young, but prospects are improving for Spurs.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca desired a additional defender after losing the young defender to a knee injury in pre-season. His bosses had a different view. The playing staff are deep and a desperate purchase was unnecessary. Then came additional setbacks, leaving the coach short-handed. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back featuring against Liverpool on Saturday, but their fears were misplaced. Acheampong is very young but many believe in his ability. The teenager dealt with Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp