Premier League Round-Up: Arsenal Stun City Late, Liverpool Stay Perfect, United Beat Chelsea
LONDON — It was another dramatic Premier League weekend that underlined just how tight the title race is shaping up to be. From Arsenal’s stoppage-time equaliser against champions Manchester City, to Liverpool’s relentless march at the top, to Fulham’s derby comeback, the action delivered storylines across the country. Here’s the full round-up of Saturday and Sunday’s fixtures, what it means for the table, and what players and managers are saying.
Arsenal 1–1 Manchester City: Martinelli Denies Haaland Winner
At the Emirates, Arsenal salvaged a vital point against reigning champions Manchester City. Erling Haaland opened the scoring for City in the 9th minute, finishing coolly after linking with Phil Foden. For long stretches it looked as though Pep Guardiola’s side would control the contest, with Arsenal struggling to build rhythm.
But the Gunners refused to fold. In stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli pounced on a defensive lapse and fired home, sparking wild celebrations. The 1–1 draw keeps Arsenal in touching distance at the top of the table.
Mikel Arteta praised his side’s resilience: “Against a team of City’s quality, you can’t switch off. The way we kept pushing shows the belief inside this squad.” Pep Guardiola, by contrast, lamented missed chances: “We should have killed the game earlier. In this league, one moment is enough to change everything.”
Newcastle United 0–0 Bournemouth: Magpies Held Again
Newcastle were left frustrated for a third straight away draw after failing to break down Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. Despite dominating possession, Eddie Howe’s side couldn’t convert pressure into goals.
Newcastle fans online were quick to express concern. One supporter tweeted: “Three away draws in a row — we’re dropping points we’ll regret later.” Howe insisted his side would turn it around: “Performances are there. We need that extra edge in the final third.”
Sunderland 1–1 Aston Villa: Villains Still Winless
Aston Villa finally ended their 513-minute goal drought thanks to Matty Cash, but the relief was short-lived. Sunderland, down to ten men after Reinildo’s dismissal, equalised through a battling finish late in the game.
Unai Emery admitted frustration: “We’re doing enough to win but not finishing teams off. We have to be more ruthless.” Sunderland boss Michael Beale praised his players’ spirit: “Even with ten men, the lads showed incredible fight. That’s the DNA of this club.”
Manchester United 2–1 Chelsea: Reds Capitalise on Sánchez Red
At Old Trafford, Manchester United took advantage of an early Chelsea red card to claim a much-needed 2–1 win. Chelsea keeper Robert Sánchez was dismissed for handling outside his area just 14 minutes in, leaving the visitors vulnerable.
United capitalised through Bruno Fernandes’ penalty and a Casemiro header. Trevoh Chalobah pulled one back late, but United held firm. Manager Erik ten Hag called it “a vital three points for confidence.” Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca said: “We gave ourselves a mountain to climb. At this level, you can’t afford those mistakes.”
United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo celebrated the win on social media, writing: “Big result, massive energy from the fans tonight!”
Fulham 3–1 Brentford: Derby Delight at Craven Cottage
Fulham came from behind to claim bragging rights in the west London derby. Brentford struck early, but Alex Iwobi inspired the comeback with a goal and assist. Two second-half strikes sealed a 3–1 victory that lifted Fulham into the top half of the table.
Manager Marco Silva hailed Iwobi’s performance: “He changed the game. His quality on the ball and drive gave us belief.” Brentford fans voiced frustration, with one post on X reading: “That second half was painful, no control, no fight.”
Liverpool 2–1 Everton: Reds Win Derby to Stay Perfect
The Merseyside derby delivered its usual intensity as Liverpool edged Everton 2–1 at Anfield. Goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike put the Reds in control, though Everton rallied late. The victory preserves Liverpool’s perfect start to the season, keeping them top of the table.
Jürgen Klopp praised his side’s composure: “Derbies are always emotional. We stayed calm, trusted our football, and got the job done.” Everton boss Sean Dyche was defiant: “We created chances, pushed them hard, but small margins went against us.”
Brighton 2–2 Tottenham: Spurs Rescue a Point
Brighton looked set for victory until Tottenham snatched a late equaliser in a 2–2 thriller at the Amex. Both sides had chances, but defensive lapses cost them. Spurs fans took encouragement from the fightback, while Brighton lamented another missed opportunity to beat a top-six rival.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “We should have taken three points. We dominated large parts.” Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou countered: “The spirit was outstanding. We’ll build from here.”
What It Means for the Table
Liverpool remain top, maintaining their 100 percent record. Arsenal’s draw keeps them close, while Manchester City’s stumbles raise questions about their early-season sharpness. Manchester United climb into mid-table security, while Chelsea’s slow start continues. Aston Villa remain winless, their struggles a growing concern.
Fan Reaction
Social media lit up throughout the weekend. One Arsenal fan wrote: “Martinelli is pure magic what a moment!” A Manchester City supporter countered: “We dominated, but that’s football. One chance, one goal.” Meanwhile, a Liverpool fan summed up the mood: “Top of the league and long may it last.”
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By Fidelis News Sports Desk
21 September 2025
