The Premier League delivered goals, surprises, and plenty of drama on Saturday, but the biggest question left hanging is whether Manchester City can join Arsenal at the top of the table. Arsenal were the big winners of the day, maintaining their perfect start with a hard-fought 2-0 victory away to Sunderland.
It was hardly a stroll in the park for the champions. Sunderland had a chance to change the complexion of the game from the penalty spot, but David Raya came to Arsenal's rescue, keeping out Enzo Le Fée's effort. Bruno Guimarães then broke the deadlock before Bukayo Saka wrapped up the points from the spot in stoppage time.
Four games, four wins, and Arsenal now sit on 12 points. If that was music to Arsenal fans' ears, there was less to celebrate elsewhere. Liverpool were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Fulham at Anfield, while Chelsea were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against newly promoted Hull City.
For Chelsea, the defensive alarm bells are getting louder. For Liverpool, the problem was a lack of spark in front of goal. And then there was Tottenham. Four league games. Zero goals. Spurs drew 0-0 with Everton, extending an extraordinary barren run that will surely have manager and supporters asking where the goals are going to come from.
There was also plenty of chaos elsewhere. Ipswich stunned Crystal Palace 3-2, Bournemouth and Brentford shared four goals in a 2-2 draw, while Nottingham Forest claimed a memorable 2-1 win at Aston Villa. So, after Saturday's football rollercoaster, attention now turns to Sunday.
This is where things get really interesting. First up, Coventry City host Brighton, with the newly promoted Sky Blues desperate for their first points of the campaign. Coventry have already faced Arsenal and Manchester City, so the visit of Brighton represents another serious test. Brighton, meanwhile, have made an encouraging start and arrive with plenty of attacking confidence.
But all roads eventually lead to Old Trafford for the much-anticipated Manchester United vs Manchester City clash. The 199th Manchester derby comes with plenty at stake. City arrive with a perfect league record (three wins from three) and a Champions League victory over Porto in midweek. Enzo Maresca will also be taking charge of his first Manchester derby.
United, however, have reasons for optimism. Michael Carrick's side are dangerous going forward, ranking among the league's best for shots and expected goals. Bruno Fernandes has already been central to that attacking threat. The problem? United have also conceded six goals in their opening three league matches. That could be the key to the derby.
United can hurt City, but can they stop City from hurting them? City, meanwhile, have their own vulnerability. Despite their perfect start, they have allowed opponents some big chances, and United's attacking numbers suggest Maresca's defence could be tested at Old Trafford. And then there is Erling Haaland. The Norwegian has scored eight times in seven Premier League appearances against United.
So, while Arsenal fans sit comfortably at the summit after Saturday's win, City have the chance to pull level on points. United, on the other hand, have the opportunity to upset the early title picture and perhaps make a very loud statement in the process. Sunday's question is simple: Will Manchester be blue, red… or will Arsenal be the biggest winners again? Tick...tock! Only time will tell.
