Enzo Maresca described his first Premier League win as Manchester City boss as "the perfect day" but admitted his side remain a "work in progress" after beating Bournemouth 2-1. Rico Lewis played right-back and Mateo Kovacic operated surprisingly in midfield, highlighting City's shortage of options. Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne were muted, while Kovacic lost more duels than he won. Maresca's second-half changes secured victory, though he acknowledged he "won't be so lucky every week." Help is coming with Ayyoub Bouaddi's signing from Lille nearing completion.

At St James' Park, Alexander Isak made an emotional return to Newcastle United but had little impact in Arsenal's 2-2 draw. The striker lacked his usual movement, explosiveness, and menace, with injuries disrupting his rhythm since moving to Arsenal. The Gunners may have the long-term prize, but Newcastle have benefited from the deal so far. Isak struggled against a hostile crowd and looked a shadow of the player who glided around St James' Park with effortless swagger.