Three games, six lessons: What we’ve learned from EPL so far

THE first international break of the new Premier League season is here. Three games down, and plenty of lessons already emerging. Here are the key takeaways so far:

​DON’T CRITICISE LIVERPOOL IN THE MEDIA

Liverpool are undefeated with three wins from three – achieved in different ways, from late winners to a wonder goal in a tight contest. If rival teams want a close title race, they should beg the media not to criticise Arne Slot’s side. Why? Because Slot definitely reads what’s written or said about his team.​

Against Arsenal, he shut down the narrative that Liverpool’s defence is their weak spot. Milos Kerkez showed he can be a disciplined leftback, not just an attacking one. Ibrahima Konate reminded everyone he is Virgil van Dijk’s rightful partner and is fully committed to the cause.​

If you want drama, keep praising Liverpool and let them implode from within. With Alexander Isak joining the champions, egos are likely to get bruised when players miss out on playing time. But with a structured squad and plenty of games ahead, it should be manageable.​

ARSENAL ARE THE CLOSEST CHALLENGERS, BUT CAN CHELSEA CRASH THE PARTY?

Yes, Arsenal suffered their first defeat, but Gunners fans shouldn’t panic. They are still the closest challengers to Liverpool. The question is: will Mikel Arteta be brave or conservative?

Arsenal can adapt in multiple ways to exploit weaknesses with the depth Arteta now has. If he finds the courage, don’t be surprised if Arsenal finally grab a win at the Etihad this season.​

The other potential challenger? Chelsea. Still unbeaten after three games, though Video Assisted Referee (VAR) and referees have certainly helped at Stamford Bridge.

These decisions tend to even out across the season, so the real test is still to come. Enzo Maresca’s squad have depth, Joao Pedro has unlocked Cole Palmer, and Estevao looks like the real deal.

Once he adapts, he could terrorise defences across the league. The acid test comes when Chelsea face Arsenal and Liverpool.​

ARE MANCHESTER CITY BROKEN?

Are City unfixable? Can Pep Guardiola actually rebuild a squad? His legacy may depend on it because right now, he’s failing.

Another goalkeeper has been signed, yet the glaring hole remains at rightback.

They sold Kyle Walker, but Rico Lewis doesn’t have the speed or instincts for the role, and Guardiola still hasn’t found the right midfield balance to supply Erling Haaland.​

Without service, Haaland is neutered – a striker who can’t create on his own. If Guardiola doesn’t solve this puzzle, expect him to walk at season’s end.​

WILL ASTON VILLA BE ALL RIGHT?

One point, zero goals scored. Are Villa in a relegation fight, or should fans trust Unai Emery to sort it out?

With Jadon Sancho and Harvey Elliott added, there’s no shortage of difference-makers.

The real challenge is getting them to click and provide Ollie Watkins the service he needs. Their first real test comes after the break against Everton.

​MANCHESTER UNITED WILL BE OKAY

Rival fans may mock their celebrations after a win over Burnley, but it was a necessary result for both the club and the manager.

It eased the pressure and showed that progress is being made.

That victory was a monkey off their back, giving them the confidence to approach tougher fixtures with optimism.

The real test awaits against their noisy neighbours – and with the current state of Guardiola’s squad, a win is possible. After all, we all know this United team always show up for the big games!​

PROMOTED TEAMS AREN’T HERE TO MAKE UP THE NUMBERS

Sunderland already have two wins – six points, meaning they’re just 34 away from the safety mark of 40.

Leeds and Burnley both sit above Villa and Newcastle. With smart recruitment and clear styles of play, this year’s promoted sides look far stronger than last year’s batch.

If some of the established clubs don’t wake up, they could easily get dragged into the fight for survival.​

Three weeks in and the season is already buzzing. It is still too early for definitive conclusions, but the ingredients are there for one of the best campaigns yet.

Perhaps after 10 games, we’ll see the real picture. Until then, take everything with a pinch of salt and enjoy the ride.