5 standout performers from matchweek one of 2024/25 Premier League season

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

After witnessing matchweek one of the new 2024/25 Premier League season, several standout performers have caught our attention.

From regulars to fresh faces, these five stars made an immediate impact on their teams, showcasing skill, determination, and flair.

In no particular order, here’s a look at the top performers who lit up the first weekend of the new Premier League season.

5. Savinho (Manchester City)

Despite just 45 minutes of play at Chelsea before an injury, Savinho already made a strong statement in City’s league opener. The young Brazilian showcased the same flair and creativity that made him a standout at Girona last season in Spain.

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At Stamford Bridge, Savinho made his presence felt by successfully completing all three of his dribbles. Only Liverpool’s Luis Díaz managed to match this 100% success rate – the Colombian attempted five dribbles on the opening weekend.

4. Amadou Onana (Aston Villa)

Onana made an unforgettable first impression, announcing his arrival with a debut goal just four minutes in. But it wasn’t just the early strike that turned heads—it was his complete midfield masterclass. He led in every key metric – passing accuracy (97%), duels engaged (17), duels won (10), and possession won (6).

After Villa’s 2-1 win at West Ham United, Onana took charge of the post-match celebrations. This signalled that the Villa faithful may have already found their new fan-favorite.

3. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

Saka returned to his best with Arsenal after the Gunners beat Wolves 2-0 in convincing manner.

The England star created Kai Havertz’s opener before scoring in the second half as Arsenal grabbed maximum points.

Following his impressive performances for Arsenal last season where he racked up 34 goal contributions in all competitions, Saka has obviously picked up from where he left.

In the opening weekend, the winger had a division-high figures for touches in the opposition box with 15. He also had 10 direct shot involvements, signalling a start to another interesting season.

2. Joelinton (Newcastle)

Facing an uphill battle after being reduced to 10 men in the first half against Southampton, Eddie Howe’s squad needed a monumental effort to stay in the game.

As the second-half pressure mounted, it was Joelinton who emerged as a pillar of resilience. With relentless energy and determination, he fought tooth and nail to compensate for the numerical disadvantage. His displays on the day epitomized the grit that kept Newcastle in the contest.

Joelinton’s tireless, dynamic performance was brilliantly capped off by his winning goal, sealing the victory in style.

1. Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United)

Mazraoui made an impactful full debut for Manchester United against Fulham, just days after his transfer from Bayern Munich. The Moroccan full-back showcased his versatility, blending solid defensive skills with an eagerness to push forward.

His all-round performance makes a him a strong contender for a starting spot in Erik ten Hag’s lineup going forward.

Tags: Noussair Mazraoui, Bukayo Saka, Premier League, #EPL, Savinho, Amadou Onana, matchweek one, standout performers, Joelinton, Newcastle, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcsports, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnigeria.