A Manchester derby, a seven goal thriller and a rampant Barcelona display – here’s The Weekend Takeaway.
Mbappé and Haaland the Difference Makers – Again
No one is more decisive right now than Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
A goal and assist for Mbappé helped the ten men of Real Madrid to overcome Real Sociedad, while Haaland’s two goals took the game away from United and ensured Manchester bragging rights remain with City.
The pair continue to consistently deliver week after week – Lamine Yamal is the only player near Mbappé and Haaland’s level.
Modric Still Has It
40-years-old and still dictating the play at the highest level. Luka Modric rolled back the years with a vintage performance against Bologna, orchestrating AC Milan’s midfield and scoring the game’s only goal with a precise finish. With Napoli and Juventus already looking strong, Modric’s winning pedigree will be key to AC’s hunt for a first Scudetto since 2021/22.
Arsenal’s New Signings Deliver
Gyökeres put a disappointing international break behind him with another league goal. Zubimendi – who has never been a prolific goalscorer – scored a brace. Madueke and Eze were constant threats, whilst Mosquera looked very promising at the back.
A lack of depth has held Arsenal back in recent years; securing the three points without Saliba, Rice or Saka in the starting eleven shows the progress Arteta has made in the summer transfer window. Ødegaard’s early injury means that depth will be tested immediately.
Khéphren Comes Out on Top in Derby d’Italia
Both Khéphren and Marcus Thuram scored as Juventus came out 4-3 victors against Inter Milan. The brothers, who have never been club teammates, both scored bullet headers for their respective teams six minutes apart. Marcus put Inter 3-2 ahead, before Khéphren equalised in the 82nd minute. It was a stunning injury time long-range strike from substitute Vasilije Adzic that secured the points for Juve.
The result leaves Juventus in 2nd, behind Napoli on goal difference following both sides’ perfect start to the season. Inter are lingering down in 11th, following one win in three.
Barcelona Dominate Even Without Yamal
Yamal missed out through injury but Barcelona were still dominant against a struggling Valencia. Marcus Rashford had his best game to date in a Barcelona shirt, while Lewandowski and Raphinha both came off the bench to score quick braces.
Real Madrid might have an early lead in La Liga, but six goals for a Barcelona side without their teenage star prove they are still the team to fear as they seek to defend their league title.
Frank’s Tottenham Look Strong
Spurs sit third, equal on goal difference with North London rivals Arsenal following another impressive win. It was Tottenham’s first game following the shock departure of chairman Daniel Levy, but the backroom upheaval didn’t affect Thomas Frank’s men on the pitch.
19-year-old Lucas Bergvall was the standout performer for Spurs, claiming his first goal and assist of the season. João Palhinha continues to look an astute signing.
Inevitable Liverpool Claim Three Points
Liverpool once again scored a late winner to secure three points. All four of their Premier League victories this season have come from a winner scored past the 80th minute, including three goals deep into additional time.
Burnley’s resolute defending looked set to secure a vital point at home but a late penalty from Mohamed Salah broke the deadlock.
Liverpool are still not at their best, especially in the final third, yet still have a three point gap at the top of the Premier League.
If Alexander Isak hits the ground running, the title race might be over before it even began.
