Here were the standout individual performances in the Premier League during Matchday 8 of the 2024/25 season:
Manchester United LW Alejandro Garnacho
Alejandro Garnacho has been a breakout star this season, earning accolades with his dynamic play for Manchester United. Despite already being known among United fans, the 20-year-old Argentine winger is deserving of even more recognition. In a crucial 2-1 victory over Brentford, Garnacho was electric on the left flank, offering more direct attacking threat than Marcus Rashford, who was also pivotal on the right.
Garnacho’s display included five shots on target against a resilient Mark Flekken, showcasing his potential as a regular starter for United, whether on the left or through the middle. He capped off his afternoon with a well-earned goal, created two chances, and completed two dribbles, making his presence felt as the standout attacker of the weekend.
So far, Garnacho has recorded three goal contributions in just 500 Premier League minutes, averaging 1.4 key passes and 1.6 fouls drawn per game. With further improvements in ball retention and one-on-one duels, his impact alongside teammates like Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee could be immense.
Brighton GK Bart Verbruggen
Bart Verbruggen has been impressive at the start of the 2024/25 season, boasting a 73.1% save rate. His strong form has even caught the attention of European giants like Bayern Munich. Verbruggen played a pivotal role in Brighton’s 1-0 victory over Newcastle, pulling off a series of crucial saves that ensured all three points for the Seagulls. His six saves in this match matched his season-high, previously recorded in a 1-1 draw against title contenders Arsenal on Matchday 3.
This performance underscored Verbruggen’s value to Brighton as they aim for a return to European competition in 2025, with his shot-stopping abilities proving to be the difference in close encounters.
Aston Villa CM Youri Tielemans
At 27, Youri Tielemans is in the prime of his career and enjoying a resurgence in the Premier League with Aston Villa. Under Unai Emery’s guidance, Tielemans has been central to the success of Villa’s revamped midfield, helping them contend for a Champions League spot.
In a 3-1 comeback win against Fulham after conceding early, Tielemans delivered a standout performance, including his third assist of the season—setting up Ollie Watkins from a corner. He also created four chances throughout the match and contributed defensively with two tackles, tying Amadou Onana for the team lead in that category.
This season, Tielemans has been a complete midfield presence, averaging around two key passes per game, with a combined average of three fouls drawn and dribbles completed per match. His defensive contributions are equally notable, with an average of 3.4 tackles and interceptions per game. Despite not always being in the spotlight, Tielemans is solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most well-rounded midfielders.
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