Chelsea have emerged as an unexpected highlight in the Premier League this season under new manager Enzo Maresca. After being written off by many as a club overwhelmed by chaotic player signings, Chelsea has now climbed to fourth place thanks to three consecutive victories. Cole Palmer has been a standout performer, scoring four goals in a recent match against Brighton, making Chelsea the league’s top scorers with 15 goals so far. Additionally, midfielder Moisés Caicedo is beginning to demonstrate why the club invested £100 million in him.
Fulham is also making waves in the league, currently sitting in sixth place. After a 3-1 victory over Newcastle, they continued their impressive form by defeating Nottingham Forest, showcasing their solid defensive capabilities with only five goals conceded in six games. Raúl Jiménez’s resurgence after a severe head injury has been a heartening storyline, with him scoring three times in three matches. Manager Marco Silva’s patience with Jiménez and the revival of winger Adama Traoré have been crucial to the team’s success.
Among the newly promoted teams, Leicester, Ipswich, and Southampton are all yet to secure their first win in the Premier League, but Ipswich has shown promise, particularly in their 2-2 draw against Aston Villa. Young striker Liam Delap has impressed, scoring both goals, while Jack Clarke provides a creative threat on the wing. However, their defensive frailties have been a concern.
Leicester City needs to improve their defense but has shown determination by scoring in every match. Meanwhile, Southampton manager Russell Martin has raised concerns about his team’s ability to perform under pressure after a disappointing defeat to Bournemouth. The club is hopeful for the potential of young midfielder Tyler Dibling, who has emerged as a bright prospect.
Looking at teams struggling unexpectedly, Wolves have faced difficulties, conceding the most goals in the league this season. Crystal Palace is also among the bottom three, struggling for form with a squad that includes notable talents like Eberechi Eze and Marc Guéhi. West Ham, boasting players of significant quality, has also been underwhelming, having managed only one win so far.
On an individual level, several young players have the potential to make an impact, such as Arsenal’s talented teenager Ethan Nwaneri and Villa’s Jhon Durán, who has scored multiple times off the bench. Nottingham Forest has benefited from the arrival of solid centre-back Nikola Milenkovic, and winger Harvey Barnes is starting to find his stride with Newcastle.
Meanwhile, Manchester United continues to struggle, raising questions about Erik ten Hag’s future after a lackluster performance against Tottenham. Manchester City remains consistent, although Phil Foden’s limited game time has sparked speculation. Liverpool is atop the league, experiencing a smooth transition from Jurgen Klopp to Arne Slot, quietly making a strong title challenge while the focus stays on rivals City and Arsenal.