After Matchweek 3 of the 2024/25 Premier League season, Alex Keble examines the notable themes and tactical insights, including:
- - The state of Manchester United
- - Haaland's potential to surpass his own record
- - Duran's impact on Watkins' starting position
- - Critique of Postecoglou's strategies
- - Southampton's defensive vulnerabilities
- - Brighton taking advantage of Rice's red card
- - Nuno's need to enhance Forest's home performance
- - Fulham's possible scoring issues
- - Jackson's finishing under scrutiny
- - Everton's loss as a pivotal moment
Increased pressure amid recurring issues:
The aftermath of the recent matches has intensified scrutiny on Erik ten Hag, especially with a two-week international break looming. This extended period offers ample opportunity for discussions about a "crisis" at Manchester United. However, Ten Hag insists the situation isn't dire, noting that Liverpool's Expected Goals (xG) of 1.7 was not excessive. He urged for patience as new players adapt. Despite this, criticism persists, some of which is warranted. Casemiro's errors leading to Liverpool's goals highlight tactical flaws, particularly his isolation in a 4-3-3 setup and the push for urgent transitions. This match showcased distinct managerial styles; Arne Slot, despite a brief tenure, has established a clear structure, contrasting sharply with United's disarray. Jamie Carragher emphasized this difference, suggesting that while Slot's early successes don't guarantee future triumphs, United's chaotic performance will likely be a talking point in the weeks to come.
Haaland appears poised to shatter his own scoring record:
Following Manchester City's victory over West Ham, Pep Guardiola praised Erling Haaland's improved performance, noting his increased commitment to training. Haaland's second hat-trick of the season brought his goal tally to seven in just three matches, a statistic that poses a serious threat to competitors. Guardiola's remarks about Haaland's enhanced fitness suggest he could be on track to break his own scoring record from the previous season. Haaland's recent goals came in the later stages of the match, a sign of his growing sharpness and stamina. His clinical finishing and overall involvement in play during the West Ham match marked a standout performance. If this trend continues, he may surpass the current record of 36 goals set in the 2022/23 season.
Duran's emergence could jeopardize Watkins' starting role:
In contrast to Manchester City, Aston Villa faces challenges with Ollie Watkins' form. Still goalless this season and holding the worst goals-to-Expected Goals (xG) ratio in the league, Watkins missed a crucial opportunity against Leicester City, highlighting his current lack of confidence. Meanwhile, Jhon Duran has emerged as a key player off the bench, scoring two decisive goals this season. His effectiveness as a substitute has been notable, and with Villa set to play Everton soon, Unai Emery may consider starting Duran, especially given his recent positive attitude. Villa captain John McGinn remarked on Duran's improved demeanor and readiness to seize opportunities, suggesting that he may soon become a regular starter.