Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca said on Tuesday he would no more crack down on his youthful squad following a spate of sendings-off than he would harshly discipline his own children.

"I have four kids. When they do something wrong, I don't punish them, I try to teach them to do the right things. I try to treat the players in the same way, to try to help them to understand," Maresca told a press conference.

"This is the way I see things. It can be right or wrong, I don't know. But it's the way I like to do things."

The Blues have collected red cards in each of their last four matches and in five of their last six.

Maresca was himself dismissed at the end of the 2-1 win against Liverpool earlier this month.

The dismissals of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez against Manchester United and then Trevor Chalobah against Brighton contributed to defeats in both matches.

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"I'm not that kind of manager to punish players, I don't think it's the right way to do things," Maresca said. "I prefer to help them to understand and to do the right things."

"For sure, it's something we can do better"

Enzo Maresca admits Chelsea can improve their disciplinary record after multiple red cards this season 🟥 pic.twitter.com/tZuarFuAXq

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) October 21, 2025

While Malo Gusto's late sending off on Saturday came with Chelsea already 3-0 up at Nottingham Forest he will miss the visit of Sunderland to Stamford Bridge at the weekend.

Joao Pedro will be absent from Wednesday's Champions League clash at home to Ajax following his sending off, for two yellow cards, in the final minute of the win over Benfica in the London club's last European tie.

Maresca was fined £8 000 and banned for one match for his exuberant celebrations following Estevao Willian's stoppage-time winner against Liverpool.

He said his squad were themselves punishing ill-discipline.

"The players have a system inside the changing room in terms of fines," Maresca said. "It's something that they manage."

Maresca said the injury that kept Enzo Fernandez out against Forest was not serious and that Liam Delap, sidelined with a hamstring injury since August, was near a return to training.

"Liam is very close," Maresca said. "He's not working with us yet, but hopefully he can start in the next days to take part in sessions with us.

"Enzo took part (on Monday). We have one more session, we'll see what we decide for (Wednesday). It's not something we have to be worried about, it's just to try and protect him."

Nottingham Forest have appointed Sean Dyche as their new head coach on a deal until 2027, the Premier League club announced on Tuesday.

The 54-year-old former Burnley and Everton boss has replaced Ange Postecoglou after the Australian was sacked on Saturday following just 40 days in charge at the City Ground.

Dyche, a Forest trainee under celebrated manager Brian Clough, becomes the club's third boss this season in what is his first job since the Englishman left Everton at the start of this year.

Former Manchester City and Italy manager Roberto Mancini was reported to have held talks with Forest about the role, while Fulham boss Marco Silva was also linked to the vacancy.

But Forest opted for Dyche, with the club saying in a statement: "A respected and experienced Premier League manager, Dyche brings the perfect blend of character, tactical acumen and proven achievement to guide the club through its next chapter."

Nottingham Forest is delighted to confirm the appointment of Sean Dyche as the Club’s new Head Coach, following a thorough recruitment process led by Global Head of Football, Edu Gaspar, and Global Technical Director, George Syrianos.

The former Forest youth player joins the… pic.twitter.com/ZjUZdG4E6j

— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) October 21, 2025

Dyche's first game in charge will be Thursday's Europa League tie at home to Porto, with his opening Premier League fixture away to Bournemouth on Sunday.

His coaching staff will include two former Forest players in Ian Woan and Steve Stone.

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Postecoglou was sacked just minutes after Saturday's 3-0 loss to Chelsea, making him the shortest-serving permanent manager in Premier League history.

Owner Evangelos Marinakis dismissed the former Spurs boss after no wins from his opening eight games.

Postecoglou was appointed following the exit of Nuno Espirito Santo, who was himself sacked in September following the collapse of his relationship with Marinakis.

Forest are in the Premier League relegation zone with just five points after eight games despite a squad bolstered by over £100 million ($134 million) of investment during the transfer window.

When Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike returns to face his former club Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on Wednesday, he will find a side which bears little resemblance to the one he left in July.

Last year, Frankfurt qualified for the Champions League by finishing in the Bundesliga top four for the first time in their history.

Their third-placed finish was their best result since the 1992-93 season.

However, the Eagles have lacked any sort of consistency since the start of the current campaign and boast just one win in their past five games in all competitions.

Liverpool's misfiring forward line will be licking their lips looking at Frankfurt's defence, which has conceded 18 goals in that five-game run.

While Liverpool, on a four-game losing streak, have teething problems of their own, Frankfurt have struggled after once again losing their biggest star.

Last season, Ekitike was Frankfurt's principal attacking force, particularly after the winter departure of Omar Marmoush to Manchester City.

The Frenchman scored 22 goals and laid on 12 assists in 48 games in all competitions.

But Frankfurt have made a habit of selling their biggest talents for big profits in recent years.

Ekitike became the latest starlet to leave Frankfurt in the summer, when Liverpool paid a reported £69 million ($92 million) for his services.

Ekitike, Marmoush, Randal Kolo Muani, Luka Jovic, Sebastian Haller and Willian Pacho have brought in a combined €418 million ($487 million) since 2020.

But while Frankfurt's scouts have shown a continued ability to unearth gems, the departure of key players always leads to a period of rebuilding.

And Frankfurt, as is often the case for a young team in such a phase, have shown strokes of brilliance and moments of pure chaos in equal measure this season.

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'A DIFFERENT GAME'

Playing in the Champions League for just the second time in their history, Frankfurt opened their campaign with an incredible 5-1 home win over Galatasaray, with their youthful attackers running riot.

But next time out, the 2022 Europa League winners were humbled at Atletico Madrid by the same scoreline, with their chaotic defence an utter shambles.

In the Bundesliga, Frankfurt's hot-and-cold three wins, three losses and one draw has them seventh after seven matches.

Apart from league leaders Bayern Munich, Dino Toppmoeller's side have scored the most goals in the league this season but they have also conceded more than any other side.

Frankfurt's struggles may be a chance for Liverpool to revive their season, but the home side know the English champions will be vulnerable while they try to find their feet.

Florian Wirtz has yet to score or assist in the Premier League or Champions League since arriving in Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer.

Deadly anywhere in or around the box for Newcastle, Alexander Isak is another summer arrival who is yet to look his best.

Ekitike is perhaps the only one of Liverpool's new recruits to impress despite the club's struggles this season.

The 23-year-old has five goals in 11 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool.

Sporting director Timmo Hardung said taking on the Reds could provide the spark to ignite Frankfurt's season.

"It will be a completely different game," Hardung told Frankfurt's website on Sunday.

"Starting Monday, things will move forward again.

"Liverpool. Champions League. There's nothing better in football. I'm incredibly excited about it."

Nuno Espirito Santo admitted "we have a problem" after West Ham suffered a lacklustre 2-0 loss at home to Brentford on Monday.

A night that started with a boycott by one set of Hammers fans ended with those that remained at the London Stadium booing the home side off the field as goals from Igor Thiago and Mathias Jensen secured a first away win of the season for capital Brentford, who should have won this Premier League match by a larger scoreline.

Nuno's first home match in charge coincided with a planned stay-away organised by supporters' groups in protest against the club's board.

Defeat meant the Hammers had lost their opening four home matches of a season for the first time in their history, with this reverse coming on the same day as former boss Graham Potter, sacked by the club last month, was named as the new manager of Sweden.

"Not good enough. Poor," said Nuno after a defeat that left West Ham in 19th place in the Premier League, with only basement club Wolves below them in the table. "Fairly, Brentford won the game, they were the better team.

"I think we are all concerned. You can see our own fans are concerned. Concern becomes anxiety, becomes silence. We have a problem."

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The Portuguese boss, previously in charge of Premier League Nottingham Forest, added: "It's understandable. It's up to us to change. The fans need to see something that pleases them and they can support us and give us energy."

The only surprise on Monday was that it took Brentford 43 minutes to open the scoring.

Maximilian Kilman's woeful effort at clearing a routine ball over the top allowed Kevin Schade to nip in behind and hook the ball to Thiago.

Hammers keeper Alphonse Areola got a hand to his shot but the ball spun away and settled inside the far post.

Thiago, ruled out for most of last season through injury, found the net again before halftime, only to be denied by VAR for offside.

Thiago and Schade also hit the woodwork before Brentford finally made the game safe in stoppage time when Keane Lewis-Potter cut the ball back for fellow substitute Jensen to fire into the roof of the net.

"Very pleased," said Brentford boss Keith Andrews. "We approached the game really well. I had a good feeling the last few days, the vibe, the energy around the place. I thought we produced a really good performance."

West Ham United’s dismal season plunged deeper into crisis on Monday when they were easily brushed aside by Brentford, who beat them 2-0 in the Premier League at the London Stadium.

New coach Nuno Espiroto Santo admitted his side, second bottom in the table with four points from eight games, were tentative in a game in which Brentford had a club record 22 shots in an away Premier League fixture.

"The fans are concerned, and we can feel it. And that feeling passes to the players and transforms to anxiety on the pitch," Espirito Santo said.

"Today was a disappointing evening because it was a disappointing performance. It was not good enough. The first 15 minutes things were clicking and the team were organised and combining well. After that we lost composure.

"Credit to Brentford, a physical team that put us under problems. Throw-ins, corners and the momentum of the game changed."

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There were plenty of empty seats at a quiet London Stadium as fans launched a stay-away in protest at the club owners.

"It was tough. Not just for me. It was tough for our fans, for our players, for everybody," Espirito Santo said. "It's a challenge for all of us. It's up to us to change the momentum and bring our fans back to support us.

"Win our individual duels. In four days’ time (away at Leeds United on Friday) we need a big improvement."

Espirito Santo promised hard work from the coaching staff to get the side away from the relegation zone.

"(We start) tomorrow, realising that every day is important to improve the situation," he said. "Responsibility, commitment, hard work and a little bit more of conscious effort. We need it."

Igor Thiago and Mathias Jensen scored as Brentford secured a 2-0 Premier League victory over West Ham United on Monday, inflicting a club record fourth successive home league loss at the start of the season on their hosts.

Brentford moved up to 13th in the table with 10 points from eight games, while West Ham, booed off by their fans, are 19th with four points.

WHAT. A. PERFORMANCE. pic.twitter.com/la3NcW7QVq

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) October 20, 2025

New West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo will have seen the size of the job at hand as his side were second to everything and only the woodwork and wasteful Brentford finishing prevented a rout.

"It's very nice to get the three points and get away from the relegation zone," Brentford midfielder Mikkel Damsgaard said.

"We missed a lot of chances, on set-pieces we could have had more (goals), but we are happy with the three points. We are finding a rhythm as a team and connecting a bit more."

EMPTY WEST HAM SEATS

There were empty seats at kickoff as what seemed like several thousand West Ham fans staged a stay-away in protest against chairman David Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady.

"It was 2-0 but probably could have been more to them," West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen said.

"We started well and had some corners and set-piece, but the goals were poor (to concede) on our part.

"We will only get better by watching back the things we have not done well. We are not doing anything well this season."

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Brentford came into the game having lost all three of their away league matches this season but had 22 attempts on goal, the most they have managed away from home in the Premier League.

The goal that had been coming for Brentford arrived on 43 minutes as a long ball was collected by Kevin Schade on the edge of the box and he held off three defenders before feeding Thiago.

The striker’s shot was half-blocked by West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, but the ball dribbled into the corner of the net.

🎯 Thiago hitting the target pic.twitter.com/4xy63JSTDe

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) October 20, 2025

It was more of the same in the second half as Brentford dominated possession and Schade struck the crossbar with a header on the hour-mark.

West Ham never looked like finding an equaliser, and Brentford made it 2-0 with virtually the last kick of the game when Jensen was picked out in the box in space and drilled the ball into the net from 15 yards.

🥰

Mathias Jensen 🤝 Late goals pic.twitter.com/xGxMGaB7c8

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) October 20, 2025

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he was pleased with his players' commitment, but warned that they cannot get ahead of themselves as they fight for silverware on multiple fronts.

Arsenal, unbeaten since August, are three points clear at the top of the Premier League and have won both their Champions League matches so far, but Arteta was not keen to accept the "favourites" tag in the English top-flight.

"The only thing I embrace is when I see the team, the energy, the temperature, the commitment and quality that they can deliver. That gives me the conviction that we can go all the way," Arteta told reporters on Monday, a day before hosting Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

"But that's just a feeling, then the next day you have to prove it and you can't be busy thinking about those topics.

"Every game in (the Premier League) is must-win. We are very appreciative of that, so we don't get carried away with anything."

How the Premier League table looks after 8 games😮👀 pic.twitter.com/v5HwWC7gdR

— OneFootball (@OneFootball) October 19, 2025

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Asked about a video shared on social media that showed Arsenal defender William Saliba watching Atletico Madrid on the coach after Saturday's 1-0 win at Fulham, Arteta praised the France international's eagerness to prepare for future opponents.

"Very pleased because I didn't encourage it, that came from them. We know this will be a tough one, so the earlier we think about it the better. I love that initiative from the players," Arteta said.

ARTETA PRAISES 'INCREDIBLE' SIMEONE

Arteta said he looked up to Atletico manager Diego Simeone, who has led the Spanish club to two Europa League and two LaLiga titles since taking charge in 2011.

"What he has done since he got to Atletico has been outstanding, not only what has achieved but the way he has done it. The identity he has created, they are simple and clear to identify because the manager is very much them," Arteta said.

"That's very difficult to achieve, he's been there 14 years and what he's done is incredible.

"He is someone I look up to. His passion, how long he has been in the game, how he still has that capacity to transmit a willingness to win. To keep convincing players in this environment, you have to be extraordinarily good."

Defender Piero Hincapie will be available for Tuesday's clash after recovering from a groin injury, Arteta added.

Everton centre back Jarrad Branthwaite will undergo surgery on Tuesday following a complication during his recovery from a hamstring injury, the Premier League club said.

The England international, who made 65 league appearances in the previous two seasons, has been sidelined since August.

The 23-year-old signed a new deal in July that will keep him at Everton until 2030.

We can confirm Jarrad Branthwaite has experienced a complication in his recovery from a hamstring injury.

— Everton (@Everton) October 20, 2025

"Following specialist consultation, it has been determined the defender will undergo a surgical procedure tomorrow to address the issue," Everton said in a statement on Monday.

"Branthwaite will commence a structured rehabilitation programme under the supervision of the club's medical team following the operation."

Everton, who have 11 points after eight league games, host Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

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Harry Maguire said Manchester United must build on their momentum after a long-awaited win at Liverpool gave manager Ruben Amorim back-to-back Premier League victories for the first time.

The centre-back headed an 84th-minute winner to seal a 2-1 win against the champions on Sunday, meaning United have now won four of their past six matches.

The club, who slumped to a 15th-place finish in the Premier League last season, are up to ninth following their win at Anfield – just two points behind third-placed Bournemouth and Liverpool, in fourth.

But former United captain Maguire says the team need to use the result – their first win at Anfield in nearly a decade – as a springboard.

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"This club will probably get a few plaudits this week – resilience, fighting spirit," he said.

"But if we don't perform next weekend against Brighton, it will be exactly the same the following week so we need to build on it, we need to build momentum, we need to build positive performances – that's the most important thing.

"Performances breed results in the end. Take the positives, take the confidence but at Old Trafford next week against Brighton, we have to make sure we perform and get the win."

 

I love this club ❤️ pic.twitter.com/1H5wFAsDFf

— Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) October 19, 2025

 

In last season's fixture at Liverpool, Maguire squandered a glorious chance to score a last-gasp winner in a match that ended 2-2 so he was delighted to find the target this time.

The England international may have played for United for the final time at Anfield as his contract expires at the end of the season.

"I've been here seven years now and it's been tough not getting that win, it's been on my mind a little bit to be honest," said the 32-year-old.

"I'm in my last year now so this could be the last time I play at Anfield for this club so it's really important I came here and ticked that one off because it has been playing on my mind."

Liverpool's blip is becoming a full-blown crisis as manager Arne Slot urgently seeks answers after the Premier League champions suffered a fourth straight defeat for the first time in more than a decade.

The Reds lost 2-1 to Manchester United on Sunday – the first time their bitter rivals have won at Anfield since January 2016.

Liverpool rode their luck in a seven-game winning run at the start of the season, boosted by a flurry of late goals, but an expected improvement in performances has failed to materialise.

They have now lost four consecutive games in all competitions for the first time since November 2014 when Brendan Rodgers was manager.

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AFP Sport looks at the serious issues that Slot must address to save Liverpool's season.

SALAH SLUMP

Mohamed Salah looks a pale shadow of the man who terrorised defences last season on his way to winning the Premier League's Golden Boot award.

The "Egyptian King", so often the fulcrum of Liverpool's attack, has scored just one goal from open play in the Premier League this season, on the opening weekend.

On Sunday he was guilty of missing two big chances against United.

The forward was left out of the starting line-up in the recent Champions League defeat at Galatasaray and, starkly, was hauled off on Sunday even as Liverpool chased an equaliser.

Slot will hope it is just a temporary loss for form for a player who signed a new two-year contract in April but there must be concerns that, at 33, his best days are behind him.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, now a Sky Sports pundit, says Salah should no longer have a guaranteed spot every week.

"I don't think Salah should be starting every game right now, certainly away from home, with the form he's in," he said on Sky.

"Would he be OK with that? Probably not. But when you get to a certain age you have to understand that, especially when you're not playing well, where's your argument?"

STRUGGLING SIGNINGS

Slot chose to go big in the summer transfer window, splashing out more than $450 million ($604 million) on new signings.

The club twice broke their own transfer record to bring in playmaker Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen and forward Alexander Isak from Newcastle.

But neither player is yet to register a Premier League goal.

 

Defeat at Anfield. #LIVMUN pic.twitter.com/ItoPfakXJ5

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 19, 2025

 

Hugo Ekitike, another big-money arrival, has made a splash but the Frenchman now appears to be behind the misfiring Isak in the pecking order.

Liverpool's substantial spending on forwards was partly driven by the death of Diogo Jota in a car crash in July.

His absence is the elephant in the room at a club still coming to terms with the absence of the 28-year-old Portugal international.

At the other end of the pitch, new arrival Milos Kerkez has struggled to settle at left-back, where he has been preferred to veteran Andy Robertson, and Jeremie Frimpong has failed to nail down his spot on the other flank.

DEFENSIVE CRISIS

Could Liverpool's failure to sign central defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace on transfer deadline day cost them the Premier League title?

Since the beginning of May, Liverpool have conceded two more goals in more Premier League games than any other side, doing so in eight of their 12 league matches.

Slot's men have let in 11 goals in their eight league games, in stark contrast to just three by Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Kerkez and Frimpong have struggled to fill the shoes of Robertson and the departed Trent Alexander-Arnold in the full-back positions.

Centre-back Ibrahima Konate has come under sustained fire for his poor performances and even the usually imperious captain Virgil van Dijk was caught out in the build-up to Bryan Mbeumo's opening goal on Sunday.

Guehi has told Crystal Palace he will not sign a new deal at the club, meaning he could leave in January or at the end of the season.

But even if the England defender chooses Liverpool over other potential suitors, it could be too little, too late.

When Nottingham Forest unveiled Ange Postecoglou, owner Evangelos Marinakis hailed him as the man to take the club to the next level.

“We are bringing a coach to the Club who has a proven and consistent record of winning trophies,” Marinakis said. “His experience of coaching teams at the highest level, along with his desire to build something special with us at Forest, makes him a fantastic person to help us on our journey and achieve consistently all our ambitions.”

“After gaining promotion to the Premier League, then building consistently season after season to secure European football, we now must take the right step to compete with the very best and challenge for trophies. Ange has the credentials and the track-record to do this, and we are excited he is joining us on our ambitious journey.”

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But that journey came to a crashing halt on Saturday just 19 minutes after fulltime, Forest confirmed Postecoglou’s departure following a 3–0 home defeat to Chelsea. It was his sixth loss in eight matches, leaving the club in 17th place, one point above the drop zone and carrying the joint-worst goal difference in the league.

Marinakis walked out of the directors’ box before the final whistle. Postecoglou, visibly broken, clapped toward the fans, staring into space, the end of a reign that lasted just 39 days, the second-shortest in Premier League history.

WHAT PLAYERS AND MANAGERS SAID

Ryan Yates, speaking after the match, revealed what unfolded during the 19 minutes of chaos in the dressing room. He described the mood as “flat” and admitted the players “felt they let the manager down.”

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed sympathy for Postecoglou but said the decision was no surprise, calling it typical of the pressures at the top level of modern football.

WHO IS ON MARINAKIS LIST?

The search for a new head coach is already underway. Marco Silva has emerged as a strong contender, despite ongoing talks with Sean Dyche. Silva, speaking to TNT Sports after the Chelsea game, didn’t rule out a move, saying he was “open to conversations.”

Marinakis is reportedly weighing up multiple options, but urgency is key. Forest finished seventh last season, a high watermark that now feels distant. Whoever comes in must arrest the slide and reignite belief at the City Ground.

SACK RACE RECORD

Only Sam Allardyce’s ill-fated Leeds spell was shorter. He managed four games, lost three, drew one, and left when his contract expired in June 2023. Postecoglou’s stats are strangely similar except his side managed just one goal in five matches, a feat not seen since Sean Dyche’s early days at Burnley in 2014.

Postecoglou arrived with pedigree but leaves with a record that reads: five Premier League games, four losses, one goal scored. His 0.2 points-per-match average ties him with Allardyce and ranks among the lowest in the competition’s 33-year history, only Frank de Boer fared worse, with zero points in four games at Crystal Palace.

Premier League’s Fastest Sackings

Sam Allardyce – Leeds United (30 days)

Brought in for a last-ditch survival bid in May 2023. One point from four games. Relegated. Gone.

Les Reed – Charlton Athletic (40 days)

Four points from seven games and a League Cup exit to Wycombe. Sacked on Christmas Eve.

Javi Gracia – Leeds United (69 days)

Three wins in 12 games. Replaced by Allardyce as Leeds spiraled.

Rene Meulensteen – Fulham (75 days)

Lost 9 of 13. Took over in December, gone before March.

Frank de Boer – Crystal Palace (77 days)

Four games, zero goals, zero points. Shortest reign by games managed.

Bob Bradley – Swansea City (85 days)

Eight points from 11 games. Sacked after Christmas.

Quique Sánchez Flores – Watford (85 days)

Second stint lasted just 12 games. Two wins. No spark.

Nathan Jones – Southampton (84 days)

Nine defeats in 14. Another failed move away from Luton.

Ruben Amorim said a first victory at Anfield since 2016 was just reward for Manchester United's long suffering fans after Harry Maguire's late winner inflicted a fourth consecutive defeat on Liverpool.

The 2-1 win ensured that United earned theirs first back-to-back victories in the Premier League since Amorim took charge nearly a year ago.

But the Portuguese coach said that how his players respond next weekend when Brighton visit Old Trafford will tell him more about what United can aspire to this season.

"That was the biggest win in my time at Manchester United. It means a lot today but tomorrow it won't mean a lot," said Amorim.

35 matches, but Ruben Amorim has done it 💪#LIVMUN | #SSPremierLeague pic.twitter.com/lYKeCoubNk

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 19, 2025

United crashed out of the League Cup to fourth-tier Grimsby in August and Amorim appeared on the brink of losing his job after defeat to Brentford last month.

However, wins over Sunderland and their historic rivals have lifted the Red Devils up to ninth in the Premier League and within two points of fourth-placed Liverpool.

"It was really important for our fans. They struggled against Grimsby, against Brentford and today they saw a different team," added Amorim.

"To win in the stadium of the champions and our biggest rivals is really important."

Despite the magnitude of the victory, Amorim was far from fully satisfied with his side's performance.

Bryan Mbeumo gave the visitors the perfect start by firing home the opening goal after just 61 seconds.

United had chances to extend their lead as Bruno Fernandes hit the post, but also had to ride their luck.

Cody Gakpo hit the woodwork three times before the Dutch forward finally equalised on 78 minutes.

However, Maguire, who missed a glorious chance to win the game in a 2-2 draw when United last visited Anfield in January, was the unlikely hero when he headed in Fernandes's cross.

It's another 𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗧𝗖𝗛 header from Harry Maguire 🤯🎯

📺 Stream #LIVMUN on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/lDItdhSFIU

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 19, 2025

"Was a great win, not a very well played game, but a great spirit and that is all I can ask," said Amorim.

'NEGATIVE SET-PIECE BALANCE' 

Arne Slot blamed his side's wastefulness in front of goal and set-piece defending for the latest in a string of poor results.

Not since 2014 have Liverpool lost four consecutive games.

Alexander Isak was denied his first Premier League goal since joining Liverpool for a British transfer record £125 million by Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens before half-time.

Mohamed Salah fired wide when presented with a huge chance early in the second period before Gakpo somehow headed off target with the opportunity to snatch a point after Maguire's goal.

"If you told me (before the game) we would create eight, nine or 10 open chances, I wouldn't think that is possible. From all the chances we got, we only scored one goal," said Dutchman Slot.

"It's almost impossible to win a big game of football with a negative set-piece balance.

"We conceded another one today that led to us losing the game."

Defeat leaves Liverpool four points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Arsenal opened up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League, while champions Liverpool slumped to a fourth consecutive defeat in a 2-1 loss against Manchester United.

United's first victory at Anfield since 2016 gave under-fire boss Ruben Amorim a much-needed boost.

Arsenal's stingy defence kept the Gunners top with a 1-0 win at Fulham, while Erling Haaland was again Manchester City's match-winner with a double to beat Everton 2-0.

AFP Sport looks at three talking points from the Premier League weekend:

LIVERPOOL CRISIS DEEPENS

Liverpool have suffered four straight defeats for the first time since November 2014, raising serious questions about their summer spending spree.

The vast majority of a near £450 million spend in the transfer market was focused on adding extra firepower to the Reds' attack.

But club record signing Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz are yet to score a Premier League goal for Liverpool, while Arne Slot's men are suddenly wide open at the back.

Liverpool conceded just five times in Slot's first 12 games last season as he took a more conservative approach in his early days as Jurgen Klopp's successor.

At the same stage this season, the English champions have shipped 17 goals.

Slot has been keen to use his wealth of attacking options. For the final half hour against United he played with five forwards.

However, that lack of balance was exposed as, just six minutes after Cody Gakpo had cancelled out Bryan Mbeumo's opener, Harry Maguire was left completely unmarked to head in Bruno Fernandes' cross.

"I think we conceded a very sloppy second goal," said Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.

"We worked so hard to get back into the game and we created great opportunities to score the winner but if you concede a second goal like that, that is the disappointing part."

Man Utd take all three points at Anfield 👏

Harry Maguire’s late header proves the difference! pic.twitter.com/6Rbw3Kjl7i

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 19, 2025

1-0 TO THE ARSENAL

The Gunners have a history of success built on solid defensive foundations.

Two league titles won under George Graham in 1989 and 1991 gave birth to the chant "1-0 to the Arsenal", such was the frequency of that scoreline at the old Highbury.

Yet, Mikel Arteta's current crop have proved even more difficult to breach in setting a new club record after conceding just three times in their opening 11 games of the season in all competitions.

For the second consecutive game, Arsenal did not even concede a single shot on target in grinding out a 1-0 win at Fulham to retake top spot.

"The level of organisation I'm very pleased with, but it's more about the mindset and the willingness to do it," said Arteta.

"The way our front line chases the ball, puts people under pressure, creates chaos there, it's phenomenal."

Once again Arsenal required a set-piece to get the only goal as Leandro Trossard turned in Gabriel Magalhaes' flick-on from a corner.

But they do not need to be prolific in front of goal if they continue to concede at a historically low level.

Our 10th different goalscorer of the Premier League season 😮 pic.twitter.com/ubg0q1WazP

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 19, 2025

BLACK CATS BUCK PROMOTED TREND

Sunderland were languishing in English football's third tier just over three years ago.

Now they are looking down on their Saudi-backed local rivals Newcastle after a dream start to their Premier League return.

The Black Cats have matched their best ever start to a Premier League campaign with 14 points from eight games after beating Wolves 2-0 at the Stadium of Light.

For the past two seasons all three promoted clubs from the Championship have sunk straight back to the second tier.

But a squad overhaul with 14 new signings has put Regis Le Bris' side in position to end that trend.

Relegated trio last season Southampton, Leicester and Ipswich managed just 14 points between them after eight matches last season.

Sunderland's points tally is the best from a promoted side since since Wolves in 2018-19.

Highlights: Sunderland 2-0 Wolves 🍿 pic.twitter.com/oPBJmdvq8n

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) October 18, 2025

Thomas Frank admitted he had no instant solution for Tottenham's miserable home record after their crashed to a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa on Sunday.

Frank's side took the lead through Rodrigo Bentancur in the fifth minute in north London.

But once again they failed to build on a strong start as Morgan Rogers struck with a superb strike for his first goal in 20 matches to haul Villa level before half time.

Villa substitute Emiliano Buendia curled into the far corner in the 77th minute to leave Tottenham with 11 defeats and only three wins from their last 18 Premier League games on home turf.

Frank, hired from Brentford in the close-season, has overseen two defeats in his first four league fixtures at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, adding to the club's dismal record there under his predecessor Ange Postecoglou last term.

Asked if he could explain that poor form, Frank said: "I hope I can! Maybe it is not that simple.

"This is a game that is a draw. A clear draw and we could have easily won it instead of Villa and then it is a different narrative.

"So, I look at the performance on the pitch, we did well and I'll look at the bits we need to improve."

Thomas Frank reflects on defeat against Aston Villa 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/8q5j7lSB97

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) October 19, 2025

Frank lost captain Cristian Romero in the pre-match warm-up to adductor issue and Mathys Tel finished with his knee wrapped in a heavy bandage as the pair joined Tottenham's long injury list.

Villa's fifth consecutive victory ended Tottenham's seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

But Frank refused to condemn his players after their latest flop in front of their own fans.

"I think we performed quite well. Maybe not through the roof," the Dane said.

"We gave away what eight shots? Not even a cross more or less. Very, very low XG (expected goals) and (Guglielmo) Vicario didn't have a save.

"If you said to me before the game 'they will shoot from there, Rogers and Buendia', from that situation, I would say, 'of course, it's not dangerous', but fantastic quality shot from Rogers.

"In those very little moments, they had more quality in the end."

Liverpool slumped to a fourth consecutive defeat for the first time in 11 years as Manchester United won 2-1 on Sunday to end their near decade-long wait for victory at Anfield.

Harry Maguire's 84th minute header secured back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time in Ruben Amorim's tenure as United boss.

Twelve minutes from time, Cody Gakpo had cancelled out Bryan Mbeumo's opener after just 61 seconds.

Defeat leaves Liverpool four points adrift of Arsenal at the top of the table and Arne Slot still searching for answers in how to get the right blend after splashing out nearly £450 million on new players in the transfer market.

United close to within two points of their historic rivals and up to ninth in the table to ease the pressure on Amorim after his biggest win in nearly a year in charge.

"It means everything. They had had the better of us over the last few years and it's not been good for our club," said Maguire.

"We have not given our fans enough days like today, so it has been a long time coming, coming to this ground and picking up three points."

ANOTHER massive Maguire moment 💪 pic.twitter.com/Hc0FWsESI4

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 19, 2025

STATE OF FLUX

Liverpool had only lost one of the previous 14 Premier League meetings between the sides and United had not tasted victory at Anfield since the early days of Jurgen Klopp's reign in January 2016.

However, the Reds are in a state of flux after transforming the squad that stormed to the title last season and the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident in July.

After three consecutive defeats for the first time in Slot's reign, Liverpool could barely have imagined a worse start.

Mbeumo sped past Virgil van Dijk with ease before firing past Giorgi Mamardashvili from Amad Diallo's pass after barely a minute.

🤷‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/qtwYptLvwf

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 19, 2025

The home side and support were furious that play was not stopped in the build-up after Alexis MacAllister went down with a head injury, inflicted by his own captain Van Dijk.

Slot left £100 million signing Florian Wirtz on the bench for the second consecutive game as he looked in vain to find the right balance between defence and attack.

Gakpo should have levelled for the defending champions when he hit the post from Mohamed Salah's through ball in Liverpool's one flowing move of the first half.

However, it was United who should have been further in front by half-time.

Bruno Fernandes spurned a glorious chance to double the Red Devils' lead when he hit the outside of the post when unmarked from the edge of the area.

At the other end, Senne Lammens was rarely troubled in the first 45 minutes, but produced a big save when called upon to deny Alexander Isak his first Premier League goal since joining Liverpool for a British transfer record £125 million.

A Gakpo deflected cross then came back off the post and the Dutchman rattled the woodwork for a third time early in the second half.

DEFENSIVE FRAILTIES 

Slot turned to his near £200 million in forward options off the bench as Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike were introduced on the hour mark to join Salah, Gakpo and Isak in a five-man attack.

Salah has scored more goals than any other player in this fixture, but his lack of form showed in a wild finish to slice wide with just Lammens to beat at the back post.

Liverpool's wealth of attacking talent finally broke the door down when Federico Chiesa, who had replaced Isak moments earlier, drilled in a low cross that Gakpo converted from point blank range.

Gakpo and Chiesa combine to bring us level 👊 pic.twitter.com/0AXpLTlbhR

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 19, 2025

Yet, their defensive frailties meant parity only lasted six minutes as Maguire was left unmarked to head in Fernandes's looping cross.

It's another 𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗧𝗖𝗛 header from Harry Maguire 🤯🎯

📺 Stream #LIVMUN on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/lDItdhSFIU

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 19, 2025

Gakpo should still have rescued a point when he headed wide with the goal gaping from Jeremie Frimpong's inviting delivery.

But Liverpool fell to their first league defeat at Anfield in over a year in another blow to their hopes of usurping United with a record 21st English top-flight title.

Morgan Rogers and Emiliano Buendia inspired Aston Villa's fightback to win 2-1 against Tottenham on Sunday as the north Londoners suffered more misery on home turf.

Rodrigo Bentancur put Thomas Frank's side ahead early in the first half at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

But Rogers equalised with a superb strike before the interval and Buendia came off the bench to seal the points in the closing stages.

Aston Villa secure their first away win of the Premier League season 🔐#TOTAVL | #SSPremierLeague pic.twitter.com/PFf8atKZD6

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 19, 2025

Tottenham's woeful home form in the Premier League -- 11 defeats and just three wins in 18 league games -- has proved a major issue for Frank since he replaced the sacked Ange Postecoglou in the close-season.

While the majority of those home losses came under Postecoglou last term, Frank's short tenure has produced mixed results at the club's 62,000-seat stadium, with boos audible after a defeat to Bournemouth in August and a 1-1 draw with lowly Wolves last month.

The end of Tottenham's seven-game unbeaten run in all competitions left them in sixth place after the second defeat in Frank's eight league games.

-- NIGERIA ONLY --

Villa have responded to their longest winless start to a season since 1964 with five successive victories, three in the top-flight and two in the Europa League, extending their unbeaten streak to eight matches.

It was especially notable that Villa finally beat a top-four rival away from home after taking just one point from their six trips last season to the English sides currently in the Champions League.

Unai Emery's team are up to 10th place as they try to climb back into the race for Champions League qualification.

Already without James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Yves Bissouma, Destiny Udogie and Dominic Solanke due to fitness issues, Frank lost captain Cristian Romero to an injury in the pre-match warm-up.

Despite that blow, Tottenham needed just five minutes to take the lead.

Mohammed Kudus's cross was headed back across goal by Micky van de Ven towards Bentancur, who dispatched a clinical finish past Emiliano Martinez from eight yards.

Rodrigo Bentancur strikes in four and a half minutes for the home team 😤🎯

📺 Stream #TOTAVL on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/9EPeQTdbjV

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 19, 2025

Bentancur celebrated by shoving the ball under his shirt to create a bump in tribute to his wife, who is pregnant with the couple's second child.

Villa defender Matty Cash blasted just over from the edge of the area as the visitors tried to respond in the driving rain.

Tottenham forward Wilson Odobert threatened with a low drive that Martinez palmed away.

But Rogers hauled Villa level in spectacular fashion after 37 minutes.

The England midfielder's first goal this season was well worth the wait.

Taking aim 20 yards from goal, Rogers unloaded a stunning strike that left Tottenham keeper Guglielmo Vicario grasping at thin air as it curled over his out-stretched arm.

It's a screamer from Morgan Rogers to get the equaliser 😲💥

📺 Stream #TOTAVL on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/dUj66VnD2K

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 19, 2025

Odobert's goal-bound rocket was blocked by Ezri Konsa before Martinez denied Joao Palhinha as Tottenham looked to take charge in the second half.

But Mathys Tel joined Tottenham's growing injury list as the forward limped off to have a heavy bandage wrapped around his knee.

Frank's problems were mounting and Villa took full advantage in the 77th minute.

Cash's cross-field pass found Lucas Digne and he teed up Buendia, who whipped a fine finish into the bottom corner from the edge of the area.

Off the bench and onto the scoresheet 🤩

Emi Buendía gets Villa's second with less than 10 minutes to go 😲

📺 Stream #TOTAVL on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/tCncD1dPxP

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 19, 2025

Randal Kolo Muani, making his Premier League debut, should have rescued Tottenham in stoppage-time, but the on-loan Paris Saint-Germain striker scooped over with the goal at his mercy.

Mikel Arteta said Arsenal's 1-0 win against Fulham was an encouraging sign for the Premier League leaders as they ended their recent struggles at Craven Cottage.

Leandro Trossard's close-range finish in the 58th minute secured Arsenal's fifth successive victory in all competitions.

The Gunners are three points clear of second-placed Manchester City in the title race, with champions Liverpool four points behind prior to their clash with Manchester United on Sunday.

Arsenal took just one point in their away fixtures at Newcastle and Fulham, and at home to West Ham, last season.

This term they have already recorded nine points from nine in those matches and their victory at Craven Cottage was a first in three visits to the west London club.

Tireless together 🙌 pic.twitter.com/2W0Y0agZXC

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 18, 2025

Arteta believes that those wins are a significant statement of intent as Arsenal -- runners-up for the last three seasons -- look to win the title for the first time since 2004.

"The recent history wasn't in our favour and we wanted to change that, like we did against Newcastle and West Ham at home," Arteta said.

"And this is another step to having that mindset and that ability to win these kind of matches against a really good opposition, and a really difficult place to come.

"When the context is 0-0, and the game gets longer and longer, it becomes more difficult. But we showed a lot of maturity. We kept knocking on the door in various ways, and in the end we found a way, with the set-piece to do it, but we deserved it."

In the moments after Trossard's opener, Bukayo Saka looked to have earned a penalty when he was upended on the corner of the area by Fulham substitute Kevin.

Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot but VAR ruled that Kevin touched the ball before taking out Saka.

Arteta, who was visibly frustrated on the touchline, said: "I was getting animated because it was taking so long.

"I asked Anthony 'why it was taking so long'. It was nothing to do with the process, it was just that the screen wasn't working.

"It probably wasn't a penalty so they made the right decision in the end, and I was just animated because of the process."

The only sour note for Arteta was Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres's failure to find the net for a seventh consecutive game.

Signed from Sporting Lisbon in the close-season, Gyokeres is struggling to make an impact in the Premier League after his prolific form for the Portuguese club.

"He was very close again today. We were all begging for him to score," Arteta said.

"The work rate he puts in for the team is phenomenal. We try to give him support and the love, and it will come."

Ange Postecoglou's reign as Nottingham Forest manager was ended after a 3-0 defeat to Chelsea on Saturday as Arsenal remained on top thanks to Leandro Trossard's winner at Fulham.

Another week at the top for @Arsenal 👏 pic.twitter.com/tg5Up9dCgE

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 18, 2025

Postecoglou was sacked after just eight games and 40 days in charge at the City Ground, making his the shortest ever managerial stint in Premier League history.

Forest picked up just one point from the Australian's five league games and were also dumped out of the League Cup by second-tier Swansea.

Club owner Evangelos Marinakis left his seat during the match as Chelsea took control in the second half and Postecoglou's fate was confirmed shortly after full-time.

Forest are already looking for their third manager of the season after Nuno Espirito Santo was dismissed last month.

Chelsea had to survive an early onslaught before two goals in three minutes early in the second period swung the game in the Blues' favour.

Teenager Josh Acheampong headed in his first senior goal from Pedro Neto's corner.

Neto curled in a free-kick to double Chelsea's lead before Reece James added a third late on to lift the visitors up to sixth in the table.

GET IN!!! 👏🔵#CFC | #NFOCHE pic.twitter.com/r8lyDvEvQy

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 18, 2025

Defeat saw Forest fall into the relegation zone.

UNSTOPPABLE HAALAND

Arsenal retook top spot from Manchester City thanks to another set-piece goal to edge out Fulham 1-0 at Craven Cottage.

Trossard flicked in from a corner just before the hour mark and the Gunners' rock solid defence did the rest with an eighth clean sheet in all competitions already this season.

"It was a tough game for us, especially first half the quality on our side wasn't there," said Trossard. "We picked it up in the second half."

What. It. Means. pic.twitter.com/R3D8YWlV4k

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 18, 2025

City remain three points behind the leaders but moved up to second thanks to another double from Erling Haaland to beat Everton 2-0.

After two defeats in their opening three Premier League matches, Pep Guardiola's men are now unbeaten in eight games in all competitions.

Haaland proved the match-winner once more with two clinical finishes in five minutes either side of the hour at the Etihad.

He used all of his 1.95-metre (6ft 5in) frame to power in a header from Nico O'Riley's cross to break the deadlock.

Haaland then had a helping hand from Jordan Pickford for his second as the England goalkeeper failed to keep out a low shot to his left.

"Really pleased but we cannot rely on just him, we need other players," said Guardiola on Haaland's form dragging his side into the title race.

"Our delivery of passes has been better and Erling is our key man right now."

Starting the @premierleague season on fire. Again. 🤯🔥 pic.twitter.com/1ezFy3J78u

— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 18, 2025

Bournemouth missed out on going top for a few hours after Jean-Philippe Mateta's 97th-minute penalty to complete his hat-trick salvaged a 3-3 draw for Crystal Palace.

Two goals from Eli Junior Kroupi put the Cherries 2-0 up at Selhurst Park at half-time.

Palace lost for the first time in 20 matches in their last outing at Everton.

The Eagles avoided another defeat thanks to the in-form Mateta, who was fresh from scoring his first international goal for France.

Mateta struck twice to level before Ryan Christie turned in Marcus Tavernier's cross in the 89th minute to restore Bournemouth's lead.

However, Andoni Iraola's men were denied another huge win when Mateta stroked home from the spot after want-away Palace captain Marc Guehi was fouled inside the box.

A bittersweet hat-trick for Jean-Philippe Mateta... pic.twitter.com/WCUITzPuHG

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 18, 2025

Newcastle's struggles on the road continued with a 2-1 defeat at Brighton as Danny Welbeck struck twice.

Heyyy, Danny Welbeck... 🎶 pic.twitter.com/aa9nSGmXY6

— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) October 18, 2025

The Magpies have yet to win away in the Premier League this season and slipped to 12th, behind local rivals Sunderland.

The Black Cats climbed up to seventh with a 2-0 victory over Wolves, which left the visitors five points off safety at the bottom of the table.

Burnley climbed out of the bottom three thanks to goals from Lesley Ugochukwu and Loum Tchaouna to beat Leeds 2-0.

Arsenal moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League as Leandro Trossard sealed a 1-0 win against Fulham on Saturday.

Belgian forward Trossard bagged his first league goal this season in the second half at Craven Cottage.

That was enough to clinch Arsenal's fifth successive victory in all competitions and extend their unbeaten run to eight games.

What. It. Means. pic.twitter.com/R3D8YWlV4k

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 18, 2025

Arsenal were installed as the bookmakers' favourites to win the Premier League after Liverpool's two successive defeats knocked the champions out of pole position.

Manchester City's 2-0 win against Everton earlier on Saturday had taken them briefly above Mikel Arteta's side into first place.

But the north Londoners regained top spot with an efficient if unspectacular performance by the banks of the River Thames.

Arsenal have won six of their eight league matches this season as they chase a first English title since 2004.

Fulham threatened an early opener when Harry Wilson's reverse pass reached Raul Jimenez, but the Mexican's effort was pushed away by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

Pouncing on a misplaced pass by Gabriel Magalhaes, Wilson went close with a curler that flashed just past the far post.

Riccardo Calafiori thought he had given Arsenal the lead against the run of play, but the defender's sweet strike was disallowed for offside after a VAR check.

Wilson almost squeezed a low drive past Raya from the edge of the area before Josh King's cross forced the keeper to tip the ball over his bar.

Running onto Bukayo Saka's pass, Viktor Gyokeres was denied by a good save from Fulham keeper Bernd Leno as the Arsenal striker's goal drought reached seven games.

Calafiori volleyed over from 18 yards and Declan Rice drilled wide on the stroke of half-time.

Trossard's wayward shot from close-range was followed by a goal-line clearance from Timothy Castagne moments later as Arsenal's frustration mounted.

Arteta's men nearly paid for those misses when Wilson lashed a fierce volley narrowly over.

But Rolling Stones singer Mick Jagger, a noted Arsenal fan, was watching from the stands and the Gunners finally got some satisfaction in the 58th minute.

Arsenal's set-piece prowess proved decisive as Gabriel flicked on Saka's corner and Trossard converted from close-range.

🎶 Trossard again, olé olé 🎶 pic.twitter.com/INXgFJdzDT

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 18, 2025

Arsenal have now scored 37 goals from corners in the Premier League since the start of the 2023-24 campaign.

The momentum was with the Gunners and Saka slalomed through the Fulham defence for a shot that forced Leno into a smart stop.

Arsenal were denied a penalty when Kevin's challenge on Saka was initially ruled a foul before referee Anthony Taylor had to overturn his decision after VAR showed the Brazilian's tackle made contact with the ball.

Gyokeres scored 97 times in 102 matches for Sporting Lisbon, but the Swede has just three goals for his new club.

His travails showed no signs of ending as he smashed over with the goal at his mercy, then fired straight at Leno, but Arsenal had already done enough to boost their title charge.

Another week at the top for @Arsenal 👏 pic.twitter.com/tg5Up9dCgE

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 18, 2025

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said his side are too reliant on Erling Haaland for goals after the Norwegian scored two more in a 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday.

The Norwegian has struck 23 times in 13 games for club and country during a blistering start to the season.

Haaland's double took City top of the Premier League, for a few hours at least prior to Arsenal's visit to Fulham.

However, Guardiola is concerned by his side's over-reliance on their number nine.

"Really pleased but we cannot rely on just him, we need other players," said Guardiola.

"Wingers, attacking midfielders. They have to make a step-up and score goals.

Haaland accounts for 11 of the 17 league goals scored by City this season.

A goal-scoring phenom 😤 pic.twitter.com/x5QpZjUS86

— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 18, 2025

"We play to provide Erling with quality and passing but other players have to step up. The chances were clear and they have to score," said Guardiola.

"At this level they have to demand themselves. Chances from Savinho and Jeremy (Doku) and Tijjani (Reijnders) -- they have to score. They have to do it otherwise we can't do what we want to do."

City finished a distant third to Liverpool and Arsenal last season as their run of four consecutive titles came to a crashing halt in a trophyless season.

After two defeats in their opening three Premier League matches, Guardiola's men are now unbeaten in eight games in all competitions and look like title contenders once more thanks to Haaland's form.

"Erling lives for it," added Guardiola. "Our delivery of passes has been better and Erling is our key man right now."