Are These the Biggest Lessons from the Premier League Weekend?

Liverpool’s high pressing left them open to two counter-attack goals, matching last season’s total. Manchester City dominated Wolves 4-0, showing recovery despite Rodri’s absence. West Ham under Potter has improved defensively but lacks an attacking spark. Tottenham used a clever kick-off routine for early threat, while Arsenal’s direct play faltered against Manchester United but showed future potential.

For the opening weekend of the Premier League, several tactical themes stood out across the top clubs. Liverpool, under Arne Slot, showed attacking energy against Bournemouth but were badly exposed on the counter, conceding two goals from fast breaks, as many as in the whole of last season. With full-backs and midfielders pushing too high, misplaced passes left their defense unprotected. Manchester City, written off by some pundits, signalled a revival with a 4-0 win at Wolves.

Despite losing Rodri to injury last season, Guardiola’s adjustments have restored City’s dominance, reflected in their strong expected goal difference. At West Ham, Graham Potter’s reign remains underwhelming, with nine defeats in 19 league games. Defensive improvements are clear, but the attack has weakened, leaving their xG difference only slightly better than under Julen Lopetegui.

Meanwhile, Tottenham manager Thomas Frank introduced inventive routines, using kick-offs as disguised set-pieces to create dangerous positions, with Pedro Porro’s crossing ability central to the plan. Finally, Arsenal tried a more direct style against Manchester United, moving away from their patient possession approach. Martin Odegaard often led transitions, but poor final passes limited success. If refined, this balance of directness and control could be decisive in their title pursuit.