The Premier League season has begun, and the opening weekend has provided plenty of talking points. Defending champions Manchester City got off to a winning start with a 2-0 victory over Chelsea, while Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United also secured wins. Here are three key takeaways from the weekend’s action.
Salah Continues to Shine for Liverpool
Mohamed Salah marked a new era under manager Arne Slot with a record-breaking goal in Liverpool’s 2-0 win at Ipswich. The Egyptian’s ninth opening-day goal set a Premier League record, and he also assisted Diogo Jota’s opener, bringing up 300 goal involvements (212 goals, 88 assists) in 350 Liverpool games. As Liverpool adjust to life without Jurgen Klopp, Salah’s consistency will be crucial.
Despite questions surrounding his future, with less than a year left on his current contract, Slot believes Salah has many more years of top-level football ahead. “If I see what he does to keep his body as it is and to be ready to play every game, I think there are many more years inside of him to play,” the Dutch manager said.
Saka Inspires Arsenal to Victory
Bukayo Saka was instrumental in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Wolves, scoring a superb second goal and assisting Kai Havertz’s opener. The 22-year-old’s performance was a testament to his growth and maturity, with manager Mikel Arteta drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi. “Bukayo had an unbelievable action to score the 2-0. With good players, it’s like that. With Messi, I know he’s going to come in and do that, but you can’t stop him.”
Arteta’s team selection was a statement of intent, with Declan Rice, William Saliba, and Havertz starting despite limited pre-season minutes. The Spaniard knows Arsenal need a fast start, given their challenging run of fixtures to come.
Chelsea’s Goalkeeper Conundrum
Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City exposed their goalkeeper conundrum. Robert Sanchez’s error allowed Mateo Kovacic’s long-range strike to slip through his grasp, highlighting the Blues’ lack of an outstanding number one. With seven goalkeepers on their books, including the world’s most expensive ever goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, new manager Enzo Maresca faces a difficult decision on who to stick with.
The Italian’s task of maintaining harmony among a bloated squad was further complicated by Raheem Sterling’s camp issuing a public statement questioning his future after being left out against City. As the season progresses, Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation and squad dynamics will be closely watched.
