As we return from the second international break of the season after eight matchweeks, certain players have already begun to define the campaign. Some are scoring goals, others creating chances, and a few are quietly anchoring their teams. Here’s a look at five standout performers whose early-season form has been impossible to ignore and put their teams into fairly strong positions as things stand.

Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

From the first whistle, Erling Haaland has shown he’s determined to make this season his own. Through eight Premier League games, he has already scored 11 goals, making him the league’s top scorer at this early stage.

In Week 8, Manchester City faced Everton at home and secured a 2‑0 victory. Haaland scored both goals in a quick five-minute burst early in the second half, highlighting his ability to turn matches around almost single-handedly.

What stands out:

• Goal output: Eleven goals in eight games is exceptional.
• Timing: His Week 8 brace was decisive and showed he thrives in high-pressure moments.
• Team link: City’s attack is built around him, and he consistently finds space and finishes clinically.
• Psychological impact: Defenders now know he’s “on,” which creates space for teammates.

Why it matters:
Having a striker in this form sets the tone for the entire team. City can rely on him to convert chances, giving them an edge in tight games.

Caveat:
Sustaining this level across a full season is challenging. Injuries, fatigue, and opposition adaptation will all be tests, but we know Haaland has all the potential to maintain this early form.

Jack Grealish (Everton)

Jack Grealish’s loan move to Everton has reinvigorated both player and team. In the first seven games, he led the club in assists with 4, showing his creativity and influence in the final third.

Grealish missed Week 8 because Everton played his parent club Manchester City, but his early-season performances had already made him central to Everton’s attacking play.

What stands out:

• Creativity: Consistently creates chances with dribbles, passes, and vision.
• Influence: Carries the ball into dangerous areas, shaping Everton’s attack.
• Impact: His presence boosts confidence across the squad.

Why it matters:
For a club looking to stabilize and push up the table, a player like Grealish provides moments of magic and strategic advantage.

Caveat:
Missing games can disrupt rhythm, and opponents will adapt to limit his space, making it harder to sustain high assist numbers. Injuries could be expected as we know the in-form Grealish often becomes highly fouled throughout a season.

Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth)

Antoine Semenyo has been a standout once again for Bournemouth. Through eight games, he has already scored 6 goals and contributed several assists, being involved in the majority of Bournemouth’s goal output.

What stands out:

• Goal involvement: A major contributor for a mid-table side, turning tight matches in Bournemouth’s favour as they push for European qualification.
• Versatility: Can both score and set up teammates, giving Bournemouth multiple attacking options.
• Rising profile: Less heralded than bigger names, but increasingly recognized by opponents.

Why it matters:
For a club outside the Premier League elite, Semenyo’s output can be the difference as Bournemouth push once again for European qualification.

Caveat:
Sustaining this output will be tougher as teams mark him more closely and he faces more pressure.

Robin Roefs (Sunderland AFC)

Robin Roefs has been one of the breakout stars of the season. The young Dutch goalkeeper has kept 4 clean sheets in eight games and averages just 0.75 goals conceded per match.

What stands out:

• Shot-stopping: His save percentage is high, and he regularly produces key saves.
• Composure: Shows maturity and calm under pressure for a newly promoted team.
• Impact: Provides confidence and stability to Sunderland’s defence.

Why it matters:
A reliable goalkeeper is vital for newly promoted clubs. Roefs’ early performances give Sunderland a foundation for survival.

Caveat:
The defence remains a unit, so his continued clean sheets depend on team performance and managing fatigue over the season.

João Palhinha (Tottenham Hotspur)

João Palhinha has quietly anchored Tottenham’s midfield. Through eight games, he has contributed 2 goals and consistently leads the team in defensive metrics, including tackles and interceptions. For a player whose move this summer went slightly under the radar, he’s returned to the Premier League with the same style as when he departed.

In Week 8, Spurs lost 2‑1 at home to Aston Villa, but Palhinha played a key role in midfield, including a crucial assist for Tottenham’s goal.

What stands out:

• Defensive workrate: Leads Spurs in tackles, interceptions, and duels won.
• Added value: Scores occasionally and helps link defense to attack.
• Team impact: His presence allows creative players to operate with more freedom.

Why it matters:
Defensive midfielders who also contribute to attack are vital in tight games. Palhinha provides balance and stability to Spurs’ squad.

Caveat:
Defensive midfielders are prone to fatigue and disciplinary issues, so maintaining consistency is crucial for him and the team. Given Palhinha only managed limited minutes last season, the heavy reliance to anchor the midfield could be uncertain.