Matchweek three of the Premier League produced a host of storylines, from returning heroes to emerging talents making their mark on English football's top flight.
At Goodison Park, Jack Grealish gave Everton fans reason to cheer after coming on as a substitute against Manchester United, with the game finishing 2-2. The attacking midfielder, who has rejoined the club on loan, sparked his side into life with just 25 minutes remaining, creating danger almost immediately after entering the fray. Manager David Moyes will be hoping Grealish can provide a consistent creative spark as Everton target a top-half finish this season.
Arsenal edged a thrilling 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Emirates, with several new signings catching the eye. Morgan Rogers opened the scoring inside two minutes for Chelsea before Arsenal fought back. Emiliano Martínez endured a mixed return to his old stomping ground in the Chelsea goal, producing several fine saves despite conceding twice. Ezri Konsa impressed on his first Arsenal start with a crunching tackle that lifted the home crowd, but it was winter signing Christos Tzolis who stood out, terrorising Chelsea's backline with driving runs before setting up Martin Ødegaard for the winning goal via a clever Kai Havertz dummy.
Newcastle were held 2-2 by Bournemouth despite racing into a two-goal lead, with Alex Scott instrumental in both assists for the visitors. The Bournemouth midfielder's performance has strengthened calls for an England call-up, with upcoming Nations League fixtures against Spain, Croatia and Czechia offering potential opportunities.
Fulham's troubles continued as they suffered a third straight defeat, going down 3-2 to Crystal Palace despite twice taking the lead. Manager Álvaro Arbeloa remained defiant despite his side's poor start. "We knew that this month would be very tough," he said. "But I told my players it will not define our entire season." Fulham have started a top-flight campaign with three consecutive losses only twice before, and both occasions ended in relegation.
Liverpool cruised to a 2-0 win at Ipswich, with Alexander Isak scoring twice thanks to a pair of assists from Cody Gakpo. Manager Andoni Iraola praised Gakpo's contribution, saying: "Cody knows how much we value him." The victory came as the club digested the departure of sporting director Richard Hughes.
Manchester City beat Coventry 1-0, with new signing Iliman Ndiaye making his debut following a £65m move from Everton. The forward, who was substituted in the 87th minute, discussed his decision to join City over other suitors. "It was always going to be City," he said. "I wanted Champions League football and to play for one of the best teams in the world... when Manchester City comes through you don't say no."
Brighton were held 1-1 by Leeds, though manager Fabian Hürzeler again praised young midfielder Malick Yalcouyé. "He shows a lot of energy, a lot of effort, he is good in possession and out of possession," Hürzeler said of the 20-year-old Ivorian.
Tottenham's struggles in front of goal persisted as they were held scoreless for a third consecutive league match in a 0-0 draw at Nottingham Forest, marking their first goalless start to three league games since 1974-75. Forest boss Oliver Glasner praised the competitive spirit on display, saying: "This is what the league is famous for and everyone loves."
Elsewhere, Brentford and Sunderland shared a 1-1 draw, while Hull maintained their impressive defensive form with a goalless draw against Aston Villa, with teenage defender Lucas Herrington impressing after coming off the bench. Hull manager Sergej Jakirovic offered high praise for the 19-year-old Australian international: "Herrington is excellent and has great potential... I don't have any fear when he's on the pitch and I believe in him 100%."
Manchester City and Arsenal sit level at the Premier League summit after three rounds, both on nine points, while Tottenham and Fulham prop up the bottom of the table.
Based on reporting from The Guardian.