Liverpool suffered a third defeat in a week, with Chelsea snatching a late winner on Saturday. Manager Arne Slot is still trying to get the best out of his talented squad, but players like Florian Wirtz continue to underperform.

This stumble allowed Arsenal to seize the top spot, and Mikel Arteta’s side now enjoys a narrow lead at the summit.

For Manchester City, last season’s serial champions, the picture is more nuanced. Early losses hinted at a period of transition, yet Pep Guardiola’s team has steadily collected points and remains just a few points behind the leaders. While few are backing them to clinch the title, that position could suit City perfectly as they rebuild.

Tottenham have also benefited from a managerial spark under Thomas Frank, though consistency remains a question. Meanwhile, Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth are quietly defying expectations, climbing the table and showing remarkable resilience.

Who Has Started the Season Best?

Several writers have weighed in:

• Jeremy Cross (Arsenal) argues Arteta’s squad is the strongest in the league. Despite the long season ahead and inevitable bumps, Arsenal’s balance of talent and preparation gives them the edge.
• John Cross (Arsenal) highlights Arsenal’s impressive fixture run wins away at Manchester United, Liverpool, Newcastle, and a home victory over West Ham demonstrate remarkable consistency. If Viktor Gyokeres can find his scoring touch, Arsenal could finally see their title ambitions fulfilled.
• James Whaling (Bournemouth) points to Bournemouth as a standout surprise. Despite losing key players in the summer, Iraola’s team have collected 14 points in seven games and taken points from Liverpool, Tottenham, and Newcastle. Antoine Semenyo has been a revelation.
• Tom Victor (Tottenham) praises Spurs’ start under Frank. Losing captain Son Heung-min and playmaker James Maddison could have derailed the season, yet Spurs sit third, losing only once in seven outings.
• Nathan Ridley (Bournemouth) notes Bournemouth’s remarkable recovery after opening-night defeat to Liverpool. Wins over Fulham and a draw at Elland Road show a team capable of competing with anyone.
• Andy Dunn (Bournemouth) emphasizes that while Arsenal and Liverpool are expected at the top, Bournemouth’s consistency and squad management make them a genuine force, potentially even aiming for European qualification.
• Dan Marsh (Arsenal) remarks on City’s understated chase. Rebuilding after last season’s collapse, Guardiola’s men sit just three points behind Arsenal. Despite the narrative focus elsewhere, City remains dangerous.

Weekend Highlights:

• Arsenal maintained their lead with a convincing win over West Ham, taking advantage as Liverpool fell at Stamford Bridge.
• Bournemouth continued their remarkable form, proving they can compete with the league’s best despite summer departures.
• Tottenham’s new manager bounce under Frank remains impressive, though tougher tests await.
• Manchester City’s recovery, spearheaded by Erling Haaland, keeps them in the title conversation despite early season wobble.

The Premier League is far from settled, but early signs suggest Arsenal are the team to beat. Bournemouth’s rise and Tottenham’s strong start add intriguing layers, while City and Liverpool remain threats. With seven games in the books, the season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.