Premier League Team of the Week: Gameweek 6 Overview
Another thrilling round of the Barclays Premier League has concluded, marked by unexpected results, emphatic victories, and individual brilliance across the pitch. While stars such as Sadio Mane, Sergio Aguero, Steven Defour, and Virgil van Dijk delivered memorable performances, the standout players below set themselves apart to earn a place in this week’s Premier League Team of the Week.
Goalkeeper Spotlight: Claudio Bravo’s Impressive Display
Stepping into the Manchester City goal, Claudio Bravo delivered a solid performance to help his side secure a 3-1 win over Swansea. The Chilean goalkeeper made four crucial saves and remained calm under pressure, only conceding once. Bravo’s command of his area was matched by his exceptional distribution—he recorded 69 touches, completing 57 passes at an 84% accuracy rate. This underlines how Manchester City’s build-from-the-back philosophy is thriving under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, with Bravo’s technical skills central to the approach.
Defensive Stalwarts: Bellerin, Blind, and Milner Lead the Backline
– **Right Back: Hector Bellerin (Arsenal)**
Bellerin was instrumental in Arsenal’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Chelsea. He surged down the flank, created two chances, and provided an assist for Theo Walcott. Bellerin’s defensive contribution was equally impressive, containing Eden Hazard and executing a crucial last-man tackle. His 100% success rate in both tackles and aerial duels helped Arsenal dominate a tough opponent.
– **Centre Back: Daley Blind (Manchester United)**
Blind anchored Manchester United’s backline and was the creative force behind their set-piece dominance against Leicester City. He delivered two pinpoint assists from corners in the first half and also executed a crafty pass to initiate Marcus Rashford’s goal. Defensively, Blind was flawless—winning all four of his tackles and making six clearances, while also maintaining high passing accuracy and involvement from his left-back role.
– **Left Back: James Milner (Liverpool)**
Milner showcased his adaptability in Liverpool’s resounding 5-1 triumph over Hull City. He defended effectively, limiting opposition chances, and made a decisive attacking impact with two confident finishes from the penalty spot. Milner delivered ten crosses, created two goal-scoring opportunities, and consistently contributed to Liverpool’s fluid attacks, underlining his importance despite playing in an unfamiliar position.
Midfield Excellence: Lallana and Pogba Dominate the Center
– **Central Midfield: Adam Lallana (Liverpool)**
Lallana flourished as a right-sided central midfielder, orchestrating Liverpool’s attacks with creativity and composure. He not only scored but also set up goals for Sadio Mane and Philippe Coutinho. Maintaining a remarkable 94% pass completion rate, Lallana’s industrious movement and sharp decision-making cemented his status as the standout performer this week.
– **Central Midfield: Paul Pogba (Manchester United)**
Pogba was the heartbeat of United’s dominant display against Leicester. He was everywhere on the pitch—defending, initiating attacks, and scoring his first goal for the club. With 115 touches, three created chances, two shots on target, and 99 passes, Pogba demonstrated both skill and work rate, anchoring United’s midfield in a complete performance.
Dynamic Attackers: Coutinho, Mata, Ozil, Son, and Sanchez Shine
– **Right Wing: Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool)**
Coutinho dazzled in Liverpool’s high-scoring win, tormenting Hull City’s defense with his agility and flair. He scored once, created four chances, and provided an assist while recording 100 touches. The Brazilian’s influence was immense, firing six shots and completing 85% of his passes, showcasing his creative and attacking prowess.
– **Attacking Midfield: Juan Mata (Manchester United)**
Mata’s vision and technical ability were pivotal in United’s 4-1 victory over Leicester. He calmly finished to double the lead and then cleverly set up Rashford moments later. Involved throughout, Mata completed 90% of his passes and consistently linked up United’s attack in a standout performance.
– **Attacking Midfield: Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)**
Ozil orchestrated Arsenal’s attack as they overwhelmed Chelsea. The German playmaker created three chances, delivered five crosses, and successfully completed all his dribble attempts. Notably, only a small fraction of his passes occurred in Arsenal’s own half, emphasizing his attacking role. Ozil capped his performance with a well-taken goal, affirming his influence in Arsenal’s resurgent title bid.
– **Left Wing: Heung-Min Son (Tottenham Hotspur)**
Son capitalized on his starting role for Spurs by scoring both goals in a 2-1 away win over Middlesbrough. With four shots, two chances created, and seven completed dribbles, Son’s relentless attacking threat and pinpoint crossing made him the focal point of Tottenham’s offense. His tally of four Premier League goals already equals his total from the previous season.
– **Centre Forward: Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)**
Leading the line for Arsenal, Sanchez was instrumental in their emphatic win over Chelsea with a goal and an assist. His movement, creativity, and ability to trouble defenses made him one of the most influential players not just this week, but throughout the opening part of the season.
Formational Overview: Tactical Setup of the Week
The selected eleven are arranged in an attacking 3-4-3 formation, designed to maximize creativity from midfield and exploit the dynamism of the wide players and forward line.
Standout Individual: Adam Lallana – Player of the Week
Jurgen Klopp’s faith in Adam Lallana has been rewarded with stellar performances, but his display in Liverpool’s 5-1 win over Hull City highlighted just how influential he can be. Lallana contributed a goal, two assists, and anchored Liverpool’s midfield with 91% pass completion, underlining his status as the driving force behind the Reds’ dominant display.
Special Mentions: Other Notable Performers
– Philippe Coutinho, for his irrepressible creativity and goal involvement.
– Heung-Min Son, whose two-goal burst proved decisive for Tottenham.
Managerial Masterclass: Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho earns recognition as Manager of the Week after masterminding Manchester United’s convincing 4-1 victory over Leicester City. His tactical adjustments, notably introducing Ander Herrera for midfield balance and Chris Smalling for defensive solidity, paid immediate dividends. United’s improved efficacy on set pieces, with three goals from corners, reflected detailed preparation and shrewd management.
Conclusion: Gameweek 6 in Review
This round brought dramatic scorelines, tactical innovations, and standout individual displays. As teams continue fine-tuning their lineups and strategies, the Premier League landscape remains as unpredictable and exciting as ever. Stay tuned for more comprehensive weekly insights and in-depth analyses throughout the season.
