The English Premier League has now been going on for a month, with Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur at the start. On the other hand, other ‘Big 6’ clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea have had a disappointing start to their season as they both sit mid-table.
While it often takes time for new signings to get used to their surroundings, as was the case with Moises Caicedo and Mason Mount, some players have started well at their new clubs. Here’s a look at three such signings:
#1. James Madison:
Tottenham Hotspur have signed Maddison from Leicester City for a £40 million contract. The England midfielder, who has been linked with a big move for several years, has been excellent in attacking midfield for Spurs. In four league games so far, the 26-year-old has scored two goals and provided two assists.
Maddison tormented Manchester United from the left during Tottenham’s 2-0 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. He has combined very well with Son Heung-min so far, which has been one of the reasons for Spurs’ solid start. Maddison also started for England in their recent European qualifier against Ukraine due to his performances in the Premier League.
If Ange Postecoglou’s side are to capitalize on their good start, which has earned them ten points from four games, the England midfielder will need to be in his element.
#2. Mateo Kovacic:
Kovacic has won it all with Real Madrid and Chelsea in his decade-long career, but it should come as no surprise if he wins more with Manchester City this season. Kovacic’s ability to complete long passes has been a revelation this season, allowing him to play alongside Rodri as a deep-lying playmaker in City’s 4-3-2-1 formation.
Kovacic can also play in a slightly more advanced role and has all the necessary attributes of a quality midfielder. He has already cemented his place in City’s starting XI, which is no mean feat given the quality of the squad.
It remains to be seen whether Guardiola will stick with the 29-year-old when Kevin de Bruyne returns from injury. However, he has already justified his £25m price tag with a string of impressive performances.
#3. Declan Rice:
Arsenal signed Rice for a club record £105 million from West Ham United. Since then, Rice has featured in all four of the Gunners’ league games and is already showing his class.
The 24-year-old scored the crucial second goal against Manchester United in Arsenal’s 3-1 win at the Emirates. His presence has also sidelined Thomas Partey as Kai Havertz has been picked by Mikel Arteta to start as a central midfielder in Arsenal’s 4-3-3 formation.
Rice’s assured presence in defense and good distribution allow the Gunners to play up front. His performance is in stark contrast to that of Caicedo, who was also signed by Chelsea for a large fee. Arsenal supporters will be hoping Rice goes from strength to strength at their club.