Premier League Team of the Week: Gameweek 1 Highlights

The first weekend of the Premier League season saw several impressive individual displays, kicking off a campaign expected to be full of surprises following a busy World Cup and numerous managerial changes.

Chelsea's revitalized attack shone brightly in the West London Derby, setting the tone for a thrilling start to the season. The usual Big Six clubs showed their teeth, while many players stood out with memorable performances.

Sports Illustrated’s Premier League Team of the Week - Gameweek 1

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (Everton)Pickford was outstanding against Crystal Palace, making crucial saves that kept Everton ahead, including a remarkable stop from Eddie Nketiah that echoed Alisson’s famous fingertip save against Dele Alli in 2021. Only Lukáš Horniček of Newcastle prevented more goals than Pickford on this opening weekend.
Right Back: Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton)De Cuyper thrived in an advanced role during Brighton's dominant win over Aston Villa. His clever play led directly to an own goal by Victor Lindelöf, and he later scored himself, earning him 17 Fantasy Premier League points and Player of the Week honors.
Center Back: Nobel Mendy (Hull City)Mendy enjoyed a dream debut, helping Hull City upset Manchester United. He scored from a Regan Slater free kick and finished the game with 12 clearances, cementing his impact on the match.
Center Back: Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City)Gvardiol was decisive for Man City, scoring a perfectly timed goal against Bournemouth after a slick pass from Rayan Cherki. His attacking skill has been a feature since last season, proving valuable once again.
Left Back: Keane Lewis-Potter (Brentford)Lewis-Potter opened the scoring early against Tottenham and was a constant threat throughout, contributing significantly to Brentford’s commanding victory over Spurs.
Central Midfielder: Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton)Brighton’s new No. 8 made an immediate impact with two goals against Aston Villa. Despite benefiting from Villa’s mistakes, Hinshelwood took his chances with confidence, signaling a key role for him this season.
Central Midfielder: Mamadou Sangaré (Brentford)Signed for a club-record fee, Sangaré overwhelmed Tottenham’s midfield on his Premier League debut. His energy and sharp play set up goals and helped control the game for Brentford.
Attacking Midfielder: Yoane Wissa (Newcastle)Wissa sparked Newcastle’s strong performance against Liverpool, creating the assist for Joe Willock’s winning goal. Though he didn’t score, his influence was vital in the Magpies’ display.
Right Wing: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)Fully fit after last season’s injury struggles, Palmer dazzled at Craven Cottage, contributing a goal and assist in Chelsea’s 3–2 win over Fulham. His lively play alongside his teammates showed great promise.
Striker: João Pedro (Chelsea)Pedro continued his prolific preseason form by scoring within seconds of kickoff against Fulham. The Brazilian striker is proving himself as one of the league’s top forwards beyond just Erling Haaland.
Left Wing: Christos Tzolis (Arsenal)Tzolis impressed on his Arsenal debut, offering pace and creativity that instantly won over fans. Filling in for Bruno Guimarães, the Greek winger demonstrated why he’s seen as a valuable addition for the champions.