Sports Illustrated Premier League Team of the Week: Gameweek 1 Highlights
The first weekend of the Premier League brought several eye-catching individual displays. Chelsea's revamped attack shone in a relatively tame West London Derby, while the league showed signs of renewed excitement after last season’s focus on physicality and set-pieces.
With a hectic World Cup behind and many managerial changes happening, unpredictability looms large this season. The 'Big Six' teams all featured players who left their mark during the opening matches.
Gameweek 1 Team of the Week by Sports Illustrated
- Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (Everton) - Pickford was outstanding against Crystal Palace, helping Everton to a 2–0 win. His remarkable save denying Eddie Nketiah early on stood out, preventing an early goal that could have changed the game. Only Lukáš Horniček from Newcastle made more saves over the weekend.
- Right Back: Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton) - De Cuyper operated further forward than usual in Brighton’s dominant 4-goal lead against Aston Villa. His efforts caused Villa problems, leading directly to an own goal and then scoring himself. He earned the Fantasy Premier League Player of the Week with 17 points.
- Center Back: Nobel Mendy (Hull City) - Mendy enjoyed a memorable Premier League debut as Hull upset Manchester United. He scored from a free-kick and finished the match with 12 clearances, securing Hull’s two-goal lead.
- Center Back: Joško Gvardiol (Man City) - Despite some early defensive issues for Man City, Gvardiol scored the winner against Bournemouth with a well-timed run. He demonstrated both defensive and attacking skills, showing why he’s key to City's success.
- Left Back: Keane Lewis-Potter (Brentford) - Lewis-Potter opened Brentford’s scoring against Tottenham with confidence, setting the tone for a strong performance that helped his team dominate Spurs.
- Central Midfielder: Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton) - Brighton’s new No. 8 impressed with a brace in their victory over Aston Villa. At 21, Hinshelwood is poised to become a pivotal player in midfield after stepping up from his previous versatile roles.
- Central Midfielder: Mamadou Sangaré (Brentford) - Signed for a club-record fee, Sangaré overwhelmed Tottenham’s midfield in his Premier League debut. His energy and vision led directly to two goals for Brentford, marking an excellent start.
- Attacking Midfielder: Yoane Wissa (Newcastle) - Wissa played a crucial role in Newcastle’s encouraging display versus Liverpool. Although he didn’t score, his brilliant work set up Joe Willock’s winning goal, helping the Magpies control transitions effectively.
- Right Wing: Cole Palmer (Chelsea) - Back to full fitness after a groin injury, Palmer dazzled in the West London Derby. He contributed a goal and an assist in Chelsea’s 3–2 win, showcasing his flair and creativity.
- Striker: João Pedro (Chelsea) - The Brazilian striker continued his preseason form by scoring early against Fulham, assisting Palmer in the process. Many regard him as the best forward in the league aside from Erling Haaland.
- Left Wing: Christos Tzolis (Arsenal) - On his Arsenal debut, Tzolis impressed with his pace and directness, fitting seamlessly into Mikel Arteta’s system. He looks ready to take over from Leandro Trossard and quickly became a fan favorite.
