Lammens shines as Liverpool and Chelsea face tactical questions
This Guardian round-up covers talking points from the latest Premier League weekend, spanning individual performances, transfer sagas and tactical shifts across several clubs.
– Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens impressed with key first-half saves and composed distribution in a 5-2 win over Ipswich Town, offering a rare bright spot amid the club's struggles.
– Liverpool's transfer approach looks contradictory: excitement over Bradley Barcola's expected £123m move from Paris Saint-Germain contrasts with unfilled gaps at right-wing, right-back and central midfield, exposed in a 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest.
– Chelsea have shifted from Enzo Maresca's possession-based style to a more counterattacking approach under new manager Xabi Alonso, with just 25% possession in Sunday's win over Brighton, though Alonso denies this is deliberate policy.
– Everton's decision not to sell youngster Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest has eased tension for now, but manager David Moyes remains on the defensive over ownership criticism and a lack of squad strengthening, particularly at right-back.
– Newcastle's players appear rejuvenated under manager Matthias Jaissle, though the article notes discussion of this was still developing.
- Senne Lammens shone in goal as Manchester United beat Ipswich 5-2.
- Liverpool's transfer strategy criticised despite Barcola's imminent £123m signing.
- Chelsea play more on the counter under new boss Xabi Alonso.
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Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Everton and Newcastle have all faced questions this Premier League season over form, tactics and transfers, and this piece is a round-up of talking points from the latest set of matches. It touches on individual performances as well as broader issues at each club, from managerial approach to transfer strategy.
Some clubs are dealing with new management setups, such as Chelsea under Xabi Alonso, who took over from Enzo Maresca, and Newcastle under Matthias Jaissle, meaning their style of play is still being assessed. Others, like Liverpool and Everton, are grappling with questions about squad building and transfer decisions, including high-profile moves and unresolved gaps in certain positions. Manchester United, meanwhile, have endured a difficult period, making standout individual displays notable when they occur.
These issues matter because Premier League clubs are under constant scrutiny for results, recruitment and tactical identity, with managers, boards and ownership groups all facing pressure to show progress across a long season.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Premier League: 10 talking points from the weekend’s action”.