As we approach the first international break, it is still early in the Premier League season. However, certain players have already made a significant impact. While there is plenty of football left to play, these early performances can set the tone for what's to come. With only three games down, the form of these star players has caught the eye, giving fans plenty to be excited about for the months ahead.
1. Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth)
Antoine Semenyo has been instrumental for Bournemouth in the season's opening weeks. Starting the campaign up front as the club searched for a replacement for Dominic Solanke, Semenyo wasted no time making an impact.
He played a crucial role in their recent comeback against Everton, with his goal sparking the revival as they went on to win 3-2 after being 2-0 down. His versatility has been key, as he has played the full 90 minutes in every match, including two on the wing.
A quick, attacking player and Ghana international, Semenyo has had more shots in the first three games than any other player in the league.
Since signing from Bristol City in 2023, he has made 47 appearances, scoring 11 goals, but only completed ten full 90-minute matches last season. Having already played three full games this season, he could be set for a bigger role in Andoni Iraola’s side.
2. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Erling Haaland has started the season in blistering form, grabbing back-to-back hat tricks against Ipswich and West Ham. His hat trick against West Ham marked his eighth in the Premier League, an incredible feat achieved in just 69 games, with Haaland now boasting 70 goals in that span.
The explosive forward had no football over the summer, as Norway did not qualify for the Euros. However, he has shown he is fit and ready, netting seven goals in the first three games. This is four more than any other player.
His minutes per goal this season stands at an impressive 38.4, and his touches per goal are just 8.6, highlighting his efficiency and clinical nature. Going for his third Golden Boot, Haaland is once again demonstrating why he is considered one of, if not the best, strikers in the world.
Everyone knows what Haaland brings as a player, but the added break seems to have fueled him to perform even better for Manchester City this season. He looks to be the front-runner for the Premier League Player of the Month award for August, further underlining his extraordinary start to the campaign.
3. Danny Welbeck (Brighton)
Danny Welbeck has been instrumental in helping Brighton start the season unbeaten. At 33 years old, the veteran forward has taken on a key role in a young squad, contributing two goals and an assist so far.
Welbeck made a significant impact in their opening day 3-0 win against Everton, scoring and assisting in the match. His goal against Manchester United, his former club, was a milestone as it marked his 100th Premier League goal. No former United player has scored more goals against them than Welbeck, who has now found the net five times against his old team.
His experience and leadership have been invaluable as the Seagulls look to build on a strong start to the season. With Brighton's continued success and Welbeck's pivotal role, he is proving to be a crucial figure in their campaign.
4. Amadou Onana (Aston Villa)
Amadou Onana, who signed from Everton in the summer, has made an impressive start to his Aston Villa career. The midfielder scored a great header on his debut in a 2-1 win against West Ham and added another goal in a 2-1 victory over Leicester City.
His standout performances earned him a nomination for the Premier League Player of the Month award. With key player Douglas Luiz departing for Juventus, Aston Villa appears to have found a strong replacement in Onana, who has quickly become a pivotal part of the team’s midfield.
His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has been vital in maintaining the team's momentum and solidifying his place as a key player for Villa this season.
5. Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)
Bryan Mbeumo has been in sensational form for Brentford, scoring three goals in the first three games of the season. His contributions include a goal in the 2-1 opening-day win against Crystal Palace and a brace in the 3-1 victory over Southampton.
Recent reports have revealed that Arsenal's Mikel Arteta considered the winger as a potential signing, highlighting Mbeumo's impressive and growing reputation.
His shot-to-goal conversion rate of 50% further emphasizes his effectiveness in front of goal. With Ivan Toney having left Brentford, Mbeumo’s strong performances have become even more critical as the Bees look to fill the void left by their former star striker.
His standout performances have been crucial for Brentford as they aim for a strong season under Thomas Frank.
International Break
As we head into the first international break, these standout performances offer a glimpse of the excitement and drama the Premier League has in store for the season ahead.
From Antoine Semenyo’s dynamic impact at Bournemouth to Erling Haaland’s relentless pursuit of greatness at Manchester City, and Danny Welbeck’s experienced leadership at Brighton, each player has made a significant mark. Amadou Onana’s strong start at Aston Villa and Bryan Mbeumo’s crucial contributions to Brentford highlight the depth of talent across the league.
These early displays not only showcase individual brilliance but also hint at the potential for thrilling team success. With many more games to come, fans can look forward to seeing how these players continue to influence their teams and the overall race for glory in the Premier League.
