nigeriasport.ng

Sports Illustrated’s Premier League Team of the Week: Gameweek 1 Highlights

The opening weekend of the Premier League saw several players rise above the rest, showcasing skill and determination. Chelsea’s revamped attack shone in the West London Derby, while other teams surprised with strong individual displays amid a season expected to bring unpredictability following a busy World Cup and numerous managerial changes.

Sports Illustrated’s Premier League Team of the Week: Gameweek 1

  • Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (Everton)Pickford was outstanding against Crystal Palace, helping Everton secure a 2–0 win. His crucial save against Eddie Nketiah prevented an early goal and was one of the top goal-preventing performances alongside Newcastle’s Lukáš Horniček.
  • Right Back: Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton)Operating further upfield, De Cuyper caused problems for Aston Villa. His efforts contributed directly to an own goal and he doubled Brighton’s lead by scoring himself, earning him the Fantasy Premier League Player of the Week with 17 points.
  • Center Back: Nobel Mendy (Hull City)Making a memorable Premier League debut, Mendy helped Hull City dominate Manchester United through set-pieces, scoring from a free-kick and completing the match with 12 clearances to maintain a two-goal lead.
  • Center Back: Joško Gvardiol (Man City)After a shaky start, Gvardiol scored the winner against Bournemouth with a perfectly timed run. Known for his attacking skills, he capitalized on a clever pass and calmly finished to secure the victory.
  • Left Back: Keane Lewis-Potter (Brentford)Lewis-Potter opened the scoring against Tottenham Hotspur with a confident finish. His performance set the tone for Brentford’s commanding win, making him a constant threat on the left flank.
  • Central Midfielder: Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton)Brighton’s new No. 8 impressed with two goals in their dominant win over Aston Villa. At 21, Hinshelwood is poised to become a key player, delivering clinical finishes despite the opponent’s errors.
  • Central Midfielder: Mamadou Sangaré (Brentford)Signed for a club-record fee, Sangaré made a powerful debut, overwhelming Tottenham’s midfield. He assisted the opener and contributed to another goal, showing why Brentford invested heavily in him.
  • Attacking Midfielder: Yoane Wissa (Newcastle)Wissa drove Newcastle’s encouraging display against Liverpool. Though he didn’t score, his work led to Joe Willock’s decisive goal, highlighting his growing importance in the team.
  • Right Winger: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)After recovering from injury, Palmer dazzled at Craven Cottage. His creativity helped Chelsea defeat their rivals 3–2, ending the match with both a goal and an assist.
  • Striker: João Pedro (Chelsea)Pedro wasted no time scoring in the new season, following up his prolific preseason form. His quick goal against Fulham showed why he’s considered one of the best forwards in the league outside Erling Haaland.
  • Left Winger: Christos Tzolis (Arsenal)The Greek winger quickly won over Arsenal fans with his confident debut. Nicknamed the “Santorini Sánchez,” Tzolis combines pace and directness, filling the gap left by Leandro Trossard and looking ready to contribute goals soon.

Related Articles