The scoreline read 4–2 to Liverpool over Bournemouth, but the story of the match – at least for much of it – belonged to Antoine Semenyo.
1. Antoine Semenyo: Kicking out racism with brilliance in a brave Anfield display
Semenyo delivered a performance of real courage and quality for the Cherries in their loss at Anfield – not only for his two goals, but for the way he responded after reporting racial abuse from the crowd, which led referee Anthony Taylor to stop play in the first half.
The Ghana international showed immense composure after the incident, pulling a goal back with a calm finish at the back post from David Brooks’ cross. He then added a second in stunning style, bursting from his own half and powering a low shot into the bottom corner after a brilliant solo run.
His pace, power and directness tormented Liverpool’s back line – a reminder of why he is linked with a number of top European clubs. Bournemouth have developed another serious talent – and if Semenyo continues at this level, interest will only grow.
2. Sunderland: A return written in fairytales
After eight years away – including a tough four seasons in League One – Sunderland’s commanding 3-0 win over West Ham almost felt unreal.
The cheers from the 49,000 fans after each goal were more than just celebration – they reflected relief, pride, and renewed belief.
This resurgence is no accident; Sunderland’s shrewd investment this summer saw them make a total of signings worth around £142 million, significantly strengthening their squad and laying the foundation for their Premier League return.
In particular, these smart acquisitions have already shown their value, adding depth and creativity that were clearly on display against West Ham.
In the last two Premier League seasons, newly promoted teams had struggled on opening day, managing just one draw and five losses combined. Sunderland have broken that pattern in impressive style. Over the past decade, only five out of 30 promoted teams have won their first Premier League game – and most of those teams avoided relegation.
The Black Cats haven’t just returned to the Premier League – they’ve made a strong statement that they’re serious contenders to stay.
3. Tottenham’s Kane replacement? Richarlison makes his case
Ever since Harry Kane’s departure, Tottenham have been searching for a reliable focal point in attack – someone capable of leading the line with presence, consistency, and goals.
Based on Saturday’s 3–0 win over Burnley, they may finally be finding that in Richarlison.
Under new manager Thomas Frank, much was expected to change – with many predicting a more practical, no-frills approach. Instead, what’s emerging is a team playing with structure, clarity, and attacking flair.
At the heart of it was Richarlison, whose growing connection with Mohammed Kudus is already bearing fruit. Kudus was electric down the right flank, and their link-up play directly produced two goals – including a stunning volley from the Brazilian that’s already being mentioned in goal-of-the-season conversations.
Frank, who built a reputation at Brentford for getting the most out of forwards like Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins, Yoanne Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo may be unlocking a new level in Richarlison’s game. If he can stay fit and consistent, Spurs may finally have a true heir to Kane’s long-vacant number nine role.
4. Man City are ruthless – and Rejinders is the new conductor
After going without silverware last season for the first time since the 2016/2017 campaign and making some big changes in pre-season, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City needed a strong game to show they’re still top dogs.
Their 4–0 win over Wolves, boosted by a fantastic debut from Tijjani Reijnders, did exactly that.
Reijnders was involved in everything – moving smoothly through midfield, scoring one goal, setting up another, and linking well with Erling Haaland, who scored twice. Rayan Cherki added a fourth goal after a long pass from new goalkeeper James Trafford, suggesting City might be playing faster and more direct football.
This wasn’t just a normal win – it was a clear message. It looks like Guardiola is shifting from his usual style of total control to a more exciting, attacking approach.
With Reijnders and Cherki fitting in so well, City’s “rebuild” feels more like a fresh start.
5. Gyokeres falters on debut: Arsenal’s new No. 9 struggles under the spotlight
All eyes were on Viktor Gyokeres as he made his long-awaited Premier League debut – but the £63 million striker struggled to make an impression in Arsenal’s cagey draw at Old Trafford.
Heckled by Manchester United fans for snubbing them in pre-season, the Swede looked off the pace, barely involved in the first half and misplacing simple passes, including one aimless ball drilled out of play.
His lack of sharpness was clear – unsurprising given his disrupted preseason during a standoff with Sporting Lisbon. Mikel Arteta had seen enough early in the second half, bringing Kai Havertz on as a replacement before the hour mark.
The pressure is already mounting. Arsenal haven’t had a 20-goal league striker since Aubameyang in the 2019/2020 season, and if they’re to mount a serious title challenge, they need Gyokeres to be that guy. On this evidence, there’s plenty of work to do.
