Might Arsenal be more vulnerable than expected? Are Brighton capable of making a top-four bid? Ian Darke breaks down his first impressions of all 20 Premier League teams after the opening weeks of the season.
First, Manchester City. The club has been found guilty of 114 out of 115 charges of breaking financial rules over a long period, and City still protest their innocence and are appealing. Their season will progress under a huge cloud, with opposing fans calling them "cheats" at every away game. Enzo Maresca's team is 100% so far, without being wholly convincing, and new signings Elliot Anderson, Enzo Fernández and Iliman Ndiaye have made great starts.
It is far too early to draw firm conclusions. A year ago, Liverpool were top with a 100% record, but they faded to finish fifth. Tottenham Hotspur were third last September, then needed a win on the final day to avoid relegation. Aston Villa were in the drop zone yet finished in the top four. Teams struggling now, such as Manchester United and Chelsea, might find a winning rhythm, while early pace-setters such as Brighton & Hove Albion and Hull City could face tougher times when injuries and suspensions arrive.
Arsenal, the defending champions, looked almost invincible until a 3-0 loss at Brighton. It was their fourth away game in 10 days, and manager Mikel Arteta hinted at complacency. The loss has knocked them off the top of the table, and a home game against Leeds United will be a good test.
Liverpool, under coach Andoni Iraola, are still adapting to a high-press style. Club-record striker Alexander Isak is looking his old self with four goals already, and Ronald Araújo has solved the right back problem. The Reds do not yet look like title contenders, but Sunday's trip to face City will be informative.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing