Unlocking the Magic: Bruno Fernandes Inspires with Creative Genius, Yves Bissouma Shines, and Man City's Midfield Transformation

Bruno Fernandes is hailed as the most innovative player in the current Premier League season. His exceptional creative abilities are evident through his remarkable expected assists total, which serves as a more objective measure of creativity, as it is not reliant on the finishing abilities of his teammates. Furthermore, Fernandes consistently showcases his brilliance on the field.

Among the players in the Premier League this season, a total of 20 individuals have achieved an expected assists total of 0.5 or higher in a single game, effectively equating to half a goal. However, only two players have accomplished this more than once thus far. While Kaoru Mitoma has achieved this feat twice, Fernandes stands out by having achieved it in all three of Manchester United's matches.

Erik ten Hag's team had a disappointing start, but their victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford showed Fernandes' noteworthy contribution in motivating the team. His fearless play with the ball is crucial. Despite criticism for passing to Marcus Rashford with a square pass from a free-kick, Fernandes's smart positioning allowed him to receive the ball back. This led to setting up Casemiro for the equalizer and eventually scoring the winning goal from a penalty.

Fernandes' leadership is often scrutinized for petty reasons like his body language. However, Ten Hag acknowledges that leadership can manifest in various ways. Fernandes displays his character on the field and demonstrates a willingness to take charge when he has possession of the ball.

"In the press conference following the Forest game," Ten Hag remarked, "he performed exceptionally well at the highest level. Notably, he remained composed and kept his emotions in check, while also effectively channeling them when necessary. His attacking prowess was outstanding, making a significant impact. I am extremely satisfied with his performance."

New midfield profile for Guardiola?

In the midst of the first half of the game between Manchester City and Sheffield United, the Premier League champions encountered difficulties in breaking down their opponents. However, there was a pivotal moment when Mateo Kovacic initiated a powerful run, causing some uncertainty among the defense.

Displaying exceptional agility, Kovacic managed to maneuver between the defenders but was eventually brought down. As a result, a set-piece opportunity arose, leading to a goal being scored. Unfortunately, Nathan Ake's goal was disallowed due to an offside offense committed by Rodri during the buildup. Nevertheless, it was Kovacic's remarkable ball-carrying skills that created the chance.

Kovacic and Rodri are among a select few central midfielders in the Premier League who have achieved over 700 metres in ball carrying this season. This not only highlights the defensive approach of opposing teams against City but also underscores the essential qualities needed in their midfielders.

This may possibly clarify the interest in Matheus Nunes, an additional player adept at carrying the ball. Nunes has made the most attempted take-ons in the first two weeks of the season. On the other hand, Jeremy Doku, a dynamic winger, possesses the unpredictability and skill to excel in one-on-one situations.

The profile that Pep Guardiola wants is changing.

It is because the challenge is changing.

Unai Emery, the Aston Villa boss, has observed a significant change in the defensive strategies employed by Premier League teams this season. Emphasizing the dynamic nature of football, Emery stated that teams are increasingly adopting a man-to-man defensive approach, employing it all over the pitch. Emery highlighted the need for adaptability, as the challenges differ when building up against teams using zonal marking compared to those utilizing man-to-man marking. Furthermore, Emery emphasized that a growing number of teams have now embraced this defensive tactic.

The weakness of the one-on-one strategy is that a single dribble can create opportunities on the field. Guardiola recognizes this and seeks players who can exploit this advantage. The player with the most anticipated assists from successful dribbles this season is Phil Foden of Manchester City.

However, Foden was absent from the starting line-up in the match against Sheffield United due to a stomach problem. In the post-match press conference at Bramall Lane, Juanma Lillo acknowledged that City faced difficulties in finding Julian Alvarez in those areas during the first 45 minutes.

Bissouma reborn under Postecoglou

A New Look for Manchester City without De Bruyne, Gundogan, and Mahrez

Tottenham's Yves Bissouma has outperformed Man City's midfield duo this season in terms of carrying the ball. Despite facing challenges in his first year with Spurs, he has recently emerged as a sensation and seems rejuvenated under Ange Postecoglou.

As the transfer deadline approaches, attention shifts to the market as a means to address issues. However, Bissouma's performance, which fell short under Antonio Conte, serves as a reminder that solutions can also come from within. Bissouma's thriving partnership with Pape Sarr is a testament to this.

Credit goes to Postecoglou, as Bissouma stated in July, "He instills us with confidence. He's like a father, uncle, and friend." Perhaps this unique relationship is what motivates Bissouma, especially after Conte publicly implied that he was struggling to meet his tactical demands.

Everton's trip to Sheffield feels big already

The standout performance of a player who previously excelled at Brighton but now regains his freedom at Spurs has been one of the highlights of the team's start. Although James Maddison grabbed the headlines with his exceptional performance against Bournemouth, it is Postecoglou's impact on the existing players that is truly remarkable.

Everton's trip to Sheffield feels big already

Tottenham's upcoming fixture will be against Sheffield United at home, but before that, the Blades will face Everton at Bramall Lane. After experiencing the electrifying atmosphere within the stadium firsthand on Sunday, it would come as no surprise if they manage to secure their first points.

The atmosphere against City was intense, with the opposition and officials being targeted. The home team was energized by the roaring crowd. In fact, the 31,336 spectators had the champions of Europe on edge towards the end of the match, demonstrating their unwavering support for Paul Heckingbottom. During an interview with the Sheffield United boss at the club's training ground on Friday, he recognized the significance of this support. "To compete against these teams, we require a vibrant atmosphere," he expressed to We. Undoubtedly, the lack of such an atmosphere played a role in their relegation in 2021.

Having lost 13 out of their 18 home fixtures inside an empty stadium during the pandemic, they exited the Premier League quietly back then. Although Everton defeated them on Boxing Day that season, the away side will face a contrasting situation on Saturday.

While it may appear premature to label the match as a crucial one, the fact that both teams have suffered three consecutive losses should not be underestimated in terms of its impact on their season's outcome. These results have already had a noticeable effect on Everton's aspirations.

The initial betting prediction for Everton to finish with 40 points has now dropped to 35 points due to their recent home defeats to Fulham, Wolves, and Aston Villa. This decrease in points could potentially impact their chances of avoiding relegation. While Sean Dyche may appear calm, he managed to keep Burnley in the league despite not winning their first seven games in 2020. However, Everton is squandering a favorable set of fixtures and if their losing streak continues at Bramall Lane, their prospects for success are already appearing grim.