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Immediate impact
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The Premier League returned with all its trademark intensity - and it didn’t take long for some of this summer’s new arrivals to make their presence felt. From debut goals that lit up stadiums, to commanding displays in midfield, and rock-solid performances at the back, several fresh signings wasted no time in showing exactly why their clubs invested in them.
Opening weekends can be unforgiving, but they can also set the tone, and many newcomers stepped straight into the spotlight. Whether it was a record signing delivering instant impact, or an under-the-radar addition quietly transforming a team’s balance, the first round of fixtures offered a glimpse of how influential these players could be across the campaign. Transfermarkt picks out five standout debutants who shone brightest in weekend one. We have only picked one player per team.
Five new signings who shone in the Premier League opening weekend
Tijjani Reijnders - Manchester City
Manchester City showcased to any one doubting their title credentials just what they are capable of on the opening weekend, as a new-look side smashed Wolves 4-0 to become the early Premier League leaders. Rayan Aït-Nouri performed well, whilst Rayan Cherki scored a cracker from the bench, but the game's player of the match was without doubt midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutchman was everywhere and gave Pep Guardiola's team a new dimension. He scored with a fine finish, as well as setting up Erling Haaland's second goal. The 26-year-old also consistently stretched the Wolves defence with his penetrating and well-timed runs, and gave City fans plenty to be excited about.
Hugo Ekitiké - Liverpool
Liverpool managed to get the three points on Friday night against Bournemouth thanks to two late goals, but it wasn't exactly a fluid performance from the Premier League champions. New left-back Milos Kerkez struggled against his former side, whilst Jeremie Frimpong's defensive frailties were also exploited at right-back. However, new striker Hugo Ekitiké was a menace and picked up a goal and an assist on his debut in the English top-flight. Whilst his goal was fairly fortunate in how it ricocheted back to him off the defender, his link up play was very encouraging, and in this new-look attacking Liverpool team, he looks a good bet to rack up the goals.
Reinildo - Sunderland
We could have picked out a number of Sunderland players, as they beat West Ham 3-0 on the opening day with eight new signings in their starting XI. Habib Diarra and Granit Xhaka were excellent in midfield, but defender Reinildo, signed from Atlético Madrid on a free transfer, was a brick wall in defence. His experience and know-how helped quieten down the Hammers' attack. According to Opta, the Mozambique international had a 100% tackle success-rate, completed four clearances and two interceptions, and no Sunderland player had more touches than his 63.
Mohammed Kudus - Tottenham
Thomas Frank got off to a dream start as Tottenham manager, as Spurs beat newly-promoted Burnley 3-0 in north London. New signing Mohammed Kudus played a big part. The Ghanian got two assists with two mean whipped crosses, and was also commendable in his effort to get back and help Spurs defend. He was a skilful menace throughout and is sure to get Tottenham fans off their seats throughout the season.
Matheus Cunha - Manchester United
It may sound strange to include a forward who not only didn't score or assist, but was also on the losing team, but new Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha was probably the best player on the pitch in their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford. It was also a very positive performance from fellow new signing Bryan Mbeumo, but Cunha showcased flashes of brilliance and was unlucky not to be on the scoresheet. His flick to lose Ben White in the centre of the field was world class, whilst another outstanding solo run almost ended in a goal of the season contender. A disappointing result for the Red Devils on their opening day, but they have plenty to be excited about with their new Brazilian.
