Sports Illustrated's Premier League Best XI: Gameweek 1 Highlights

The opening weekend of the Premier League brought a fresh burst of energy, with some remarkable individual performances shining through. Chelsea's revamped attack sparked excitement in the West London Derby, while other teams showed promising signs after a season marked by intense physicality and set-piece battles.

This campaign looks to be unpredictable, shaped by a crowded World Cup schedule and many managerial changes. As the league returned, both big clubs and lesser-known sides delivered standout moments.

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (Everton)

Pickford was solid between the sticks as Everton secured a 2–0 win over Crystal Palace. Despite Palace’s bright start, their finishing fell short against England’s first-choice keeper. Pickford’s highlight was a fingertip save denying Eddie Nketiah, reminiscent of Alisson’s famous stop against Dele Alli in 2021. He was second only to Newcastle’s Lukáš Horniček in expected goals prevented during the weekend.

Right Back: Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton)

Playing further upfield than usual, De Cuyper was a constant threat in Brighton’s 4-goal demolition of Aston Villa. His sharp play contributed directly to an own goal from Victor Lindelöf and he finished off a move to score himself. His efforts earned him Fantasy Premier League Player of the Week honors with 17 points.

Center Back: Nobel Mendy (Hull City)

Mendy had an unforgettable Premier League debut as Hull shocked Manchester United. He scored from a Regan Slater free kick and helped maintain a two-goal lead with 12 clearances, proving vital in his team’s unexpected strong showing.

Center Back: Joško Gvardiol (Man City)

Gvardiol came through when it mattered, scoring the match-winning goal against Bournemouth. After some defensive challenges early on, he timed his run perfectly to finish beyond the goalkeeper. His attacking instincts, developed during last season’s title run, were clearly on display.

Left Back: Keane Lewis-Potter (Brentford)

Lewis-Potter opened the scoring against Tottenham, setting the tone for Brentford’s dominant win. Known for his goal-scoring in the Championship, the converted winger showed confidence and continued to trouble Spurs’ defense throughout the match.

Central Midfielder: Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton)

Brighton’s young midfielder impressed with two goals in their victory over Aston Villa. Wearing the No. 8 jersey now, Hinshelwood seized his opportunities despite Villa’s poor defensive moments. At 21, he appears ready to become a key player in midfield.

Central Midfielder: Mamadou Sangaré (Brentford)

Brentford paid a club-record fee for Sangaré, and he justified the investment with a commanding debut. His relentless presence overwhelmed Tottenham’s midfield, assisting the opening goal and contributing to another. The 24-year-old’s energy made a big difference in the midfield battle.

Attacking Midfielder: Yoane Wissa (Newcastle)

Wissa was the catalyst for Newcastle’s encouraging performance against Liverpool. Although he didn’t score, his work led to Joe Willock’s decisive goal. With a new era beginning at the club, Wissa looks set for a resurgence.

Right Wing: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)

Palmer returned from injury with flair, playing a key role in Chelsea’s 3–2 victory at Craven Cottage. Free from last season’s groin issues, he impressed with creativity and skill, earning a goal and assist alongside his attacking partners.

Striker: João Pedro (Chelsea)

Pedro kept his pre-season form going, scoring within 30 seconds against Fulham. The Brazilian striker’s composed finish highlighted why he is regarded as one of the best forwards outside Erling Haaland.

Left Wing: Christos Tzolis (Arsenal)

Tzolis made a quick impression for Arsenal, filling in for the absent Bruno Guimarães. The Greek winger's directness and pace have already won over fans, showing signs of becoming a vital part of Mikel Arteta’s plans. Goals are likely to follow soon.

• Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (Everton)
• Right Back: Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton)
• Center Back: Nobel Mendy (Hull City)
• Center Back: Joško Gvardiol (Man City)
• Left Back: Keane Lewis-Potter (Brentford)
• Central Midfielder: Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton)
• Central Midfielder: Mamadou Sangaré (Brentford)
• Attacking Midfielder: Yoane Wissa (Newcastle)
• Right Wing: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
• Striker: João Pedro (Chelsea)
• Left Wing: Christos Tzolis (Arsenal)