Top Premier League Talking Points: Man United Breaks The Anfield Curse As Arsenal And Chelsea Stay Ruthless

‎The Premier League delivered another drama-filled weekend, complete with tactical gambles, disciplinary headaches, and statement performances.

‎From Manchester United’s breakthrough win at Anfield to Arsenal’s professional dispatch of Fulham, here’s a deep dive into the biggest talking points.

‎Amorim Gets His Tactics Spot On

‎In one of English football’s fiercest rivalries, Manchester United finally ended their long Anfield drought since 2016, and it all came down to one man’s tactical decision.

‎Rúben Amorim, under growing scrutiny for inconsistent performances, orchestrated a well-drilled plan that exposed Liverpool’s vulnerabilities when it mattered most.

‎Arne Slot, made an audacious triple substitution in the 62nd minute, pushing Liverpool into a risky 4-2-4 formation. The move left Curtis Jones and Florian Wirtz isolated in midfield, opening channels that Amorim’s men cleverly exploited.

‎The gamble looked justified when Cody Gakpo fired home an equaliser to lift Anfield’s spirits, but United’s resilience shone through.

‎Just six minutes later, Bruno Fernandes delivered a pinpoint cross that found Harry Maguire completely unmarked to thump in the winner.

‎It was a tactical chess game that Amorim won decisively. His decision to start Maguire, once mocked by critics, proved inspired. The victory not only gave United their first win at Anfield since 2016, but also marked back-to-back league victories a first for Amorim’s tenure.

‎“It’s an embarrassing stat to have had,” Maguire admitted. “We have to start putting more consistency together. We’ve set a benchmark.”

‎Spurs Struggle to Paper Over Cracks

‎Tottenham Hotspur began the day with dreams of going second in the table, but ended it facing familiar frustrations. Despite dominating possession and territory, Thomas Frank’s side rarely looked threatening, managing few clear-cut chances.

‎Spurs’ problems at home are becoming systemic: just three wins in their last 18 league games and a paltry four points collected this season at their own ground.

‎While Mohammed Kudus and Wilson Odobert posed threats from wide areas, both Xavi Simons and Mathys Tel struggled to make an impact, leaving Spurs short of creativity and cutting edge.

‎The away form, from an impressive ten points from a possible twelve, has kept them competitive. But unless they solve their home inefficiency, their season risks following an all-too-familiar script. The boos at full-time said it all.

‎Gunners Sharpen Focus at Fulham

‎For Arsenal, the trip to Craven Cottage was another box to tick in their quest for the Premier League crown the kind of game champions must win.

‎Bukayo Saka once again provided the difference, combining creativity with a relentless work rate in another man-of-the-match performance. While Victor Gyökeres toiled and Eberechi Eze remained subdued, Saka’s brilliance ensured the Gunners kept their title momentum alive.

‎Some may question whether Arsenal have become too reliant on their academy star, but when that player is producing elite-level consistency, it’s hardly a concern.

‎With Kai Havertz due to return next month and potentially lead the line in tougher fixtures, the squad’s depth looks promising.

‎The numbers tell their own story: just one goal conceded from open play all season.

‎Maresca Swats Away Disciplinary Issues

‎It was a weekend of satisfaction for Chelsea, who secured their third straight victory this time against Nottingham Forest but it wasn’t without a subplot.

‎Manager Enzo Maresca served a touchline ban after being sent off in the previous match, watching from the directors’ box just below Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.

‎His absence, however, did little to halt Chelsea’s rhythm as they cruised to a 3–0 lead before Malo Gusto’s late red card added another mark to their growing disciplinary concerns.

‎The numbers are alarming: five red cards in six matches, including Maresca himself.

‎“It’s something we can do better, but I’m not concerned,” he said.

‎“In this case, Gusto was desperate to keep the clean sheet. But yes, we can avoid it.”

‎Guardiola Runs Rule Over Rodri Deputies

‎At Manchester City, all eyes are on Rodri’s recovery. Pep Guardiola confirmed the influential midfielder will miss at least the next two fixtures against Villarreal and Aston Villa due to a hamstring injury.

‎“It’s not long, but it’s muscular and we have to be careful,” said Guardiola.

‎The Spaniard’s absence leaves City searching for balance in midfield. Mateo Kovačić, freshly returned from an Achilles issue, offers ball retention and composure, though Guardiola warned against rushing him back too quickly.

‎Meanwhile, Nico O’Reilly could also miss the Champions League tie after picking up a knock.

‎City’s depth is being tested, and Guardiola’s rotation choices in the coming weeks could prove pivotal to maintaining their dominance.

‎Mbeumo Making His Mark

‎If anyone embodied United’s aggression at Anfield, it was Bryan Mbeumo. His early opener, scored amid chaotic scenes as Virgil van Dijk accidentally elbowed teammate Alexis Mac Allister in the buildup, set the tone for United’s high-tempo start.

‎Liverpool fans were furious that play wasn’t halted under concussion protocol, but the goal stood, and Mbeumo’s relentless pressing typified Amorim’s game plan.

‎For a player once dismissed as a mid-table talent, the 26-year-old is quickly proving himself one of United’s smartest recent signings.