The dynamic in the Premier League shifted massively in September, as Arsenal gained confidence in the title race following the news that Man City will be without Rodri for the remainder of the season.
However, Liverpool could be the side going under the radar, as their excellent start under Arne Slot continued to move to the top of the Premier League standings. Further problems came Erik ten Hag’s way, as the Man United boss is now hanging by a thread at Old Trafford.
Wolves and Southampton continue to be locked at the bottom of the standings, with neither having tasted the sweet taste of victory in 2024-25. But who were some of the standout performers on the field in the Premier League in September
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Cole Palmer’s reputation as one of the best players in the Premier League only continues to gain momentum. The Chelsea star was excellent throughout September, with his standout performance coming at Stamford Bridge against Brighton.
Palmer became the first player in Premier League history to score four times in the opening 45 minutes of a match in the competition.
Cole Palmer is just giving Chelsea fans all the ingredients to cook with. Others can never relate. pic.twitter.com/NQmZ5xd2E3
— SHAYEE 𒀭 (@tier_first) October 9, 2024
But his brilliance extended far beyond that single half against the Seagulls. The England international also scored in a 3-0 win over West Ham and registered an assist in a home draw against Crystal Palace.
His six goal involvements were the most of any player in the Premier League in September.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
It could be argued that Ollie Watkins’ form has gone under the radar throughout September, with Jhon Duran gaining many of the plaudits off the bench for Aston Villa.
However, the England striker scored four times and registered one assist in three league outings in September. Only Palmer could better the England striker’s number of goal involvements last month.
Villa fans, here are Ollie Watkins goal stats from last season, can he do it again this season or even better himself?
Graphic by me, stats provided by @AVFCStatto🦁 #AVFC pic.twitter.com/I7VAsBanwC
— Lewis // Medz (@medzz) October 6, 2024
Watkins was integral in a dramatic 3-2 win against Everton at Villa Park, before kick-starting another comeback just seven days later when netting the equaliser in an eventual 3-1 home win over Wolves. His month ended with another goal and assist in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Portman Road against Ipswich.
Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)
Brentford was one of the most exciting teams to watch in September. In three successive matches, they set a Premier League record by netting inside the opening minute.
The Bees only took one point from their matches against Man City, Tottenham, and West Ham, but Bryan Mbeumo continues to be one of the most underrated players in the competition.
Bryan Mbeumo 🇨🇲 is a man on form. He’s scored three goals in three consecutive PL matches. He plays Kenya 🇰🇪 this weekend in back-to-back #AFCONQ2025 matches.
[📸@Steve_Labile] pic.twitter.com/u595YBSeWY— Eric Njiru (@EricNjiiru) October 9, 2024
The forward netted inside the opening minute against both the Hammers and Spurs, and would start the month of October with a third goal in as many games against Wolves.
Following the departure of Ivan Toney, many questioned whether Brentford could maintain their top-flight status this term, but in Mbeumo, they have a player who is more than capable of filling the Englishman’s void in terms of goals.
Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)
Whisper it quietly but Liverpool could be in a race for the Premier League title in Arne Slot’s first season at the club. The Reds have adapted quickly to the demands of the Dutchman, with a greater emphasis put on a possession-based game in 2024-25.
Liverpool’s standout star last month was Ryan Gravenberch, who quickly adapted to playing in a number six role despite being brought in last summer to play further up the field.
Ryan Gravenberch — A huge reason for his improvement ; he’s mastered his *own* motions and gained more rhythm/sense of tempo in his game.
appreciate (this video) and look at his timings when to shift the ball & acc/de-celebrate away from markers. pic.twitter.com/goZolWUcEb
— H. (@7harry__) October 8, 2024
The Dutch midfielder led the league in terms of possession won in September and also completed more passes with 231 than any other midfielder in the competition. Gravenberch also ranked sixth in terms of the most duels won in the Premier League last month.
Gabriel (Arsenal)
September always promises to be a potentially season-defining month for Arsenal. However, they would have gained huge confidence from the four points they picked up from testing away matches against Tottenham and Man City.
The month would end in dramatic fashion with a late comeback to secure a 4-2 success at the Emirates against Leicester.
Is Gabriel Magalhães the world’s top CB at attacking set pieces? 🔥
Check out EVERY one of his set piece goals for Arsenal! pic.twitter.com/EsLG6AhNAw
— KënyanGoonër™🇰🇪 (@_KenyanGooner) October 9, 2024
Brazilian defender Gabriel was a colossus in their away matches in September, scoring the winner in the North London derby, before heading Arsenal into the lead at Man City.
He was part of the low block that defended valiantly against the champions at the Etihad, but the Gunners would ultimately have to settle for a point. Gabriel registered 12 winning duels last month, and made five blocks at the Gunners remained unbeaten in the Premier League.
