Defensively, Chelsea have been solid as well. The partnership of Kehrer and Tomori has been impressive, with Kehrer leading the league in interceptions and Tomori showcasing his pace and reading of the game. The full backs have also been a key part of their defensive solidity, with Arrizabalaga making crucial saves when called upon. Overall, Chelsea’s defensive organization has been a key factor in their success so far this season.
Looking ahead, Chelsea seem well positioned to maintain their status as one of England’s top teams. The attacking prowess of Jackson and Palmer, combined with a solid defense and midfield, gives them a balanced squad capable of competing at the highest level. If they can continue to perform at this level and avoid any major injuries, Chelsea could well be in the mix for a top-four finish and possibly even challenge for the title.
So, while our preseason predictions might have underestimated Chelsea, it’s clear that they are a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League this season. With a talented squad and a manager who seems to have found the right formula, Chelsea could well be on their way to a successful campaign.
One of the key changes in Crystal Palace’s style of play under Glasner is the increase in direct speed and opponent direct speed. This indicates that the team is playing more direct, attacking football, but they are also leaving themselves vulnerable to quick counter attacks from the opposition. The number of possessions per game has also slightly decreased, which may suggest that Palace are not able to maintain sustained periods of possession as effectively as they did in the past.
On the defensive side, Palace are conceding more advanced meters to goal per sequence compared to last season. This means that their opponents are able to penetrate deeper into their defensive third more frequently, which could be a result of the team’s more aggressive attacking approach leaving them exposed at the back. However, Palace have improved in winning possession in the middle third and attacking third, showing that they are able to disrupt their opponents’ build-up play and create opportunities to launch attacks of their own.
In terms of expected goals (xG), Palace are scoring slightly fewer goals per game compared to last season, but their opponents are also scoring fewer goals against them. This suggests that while their attacking output has slightly decreased, their defensive solidity has improved. However, the overall impact of these changes in playing style has not translated into the desired results on the pitch.
Crystal Palace’s performances this season have been inconsistent, with flashes of brilliance mixed with periods of struggle. The team is still finding its identity under Glasner’s management, and it may take time for the players to fully adapt to the new style of play. While European qualification may be a stretch this season, there is certainly potential for Palace to continue improving and establish themselves as a competitive force in the Premier League in the future.
Last season, Crystal Palace’s defensive press was more conservative but effective. However, this season, opponents are finding it too easy to slide passes through and exploit the struggling backline. Key players like Daniel Munoz and Adam Wharton seem fatigued after international tournaments last summer, and injuries have forced frequent changes in the back three. Cheick Doucoure’s return to full fitness would provide a much-needed boost, and coach Glasner must address selection issues to improve the team’s performance.
Despite dropping points, Palace is narrowly missing out on wins, suggesting that they are on the cusp of climbing clear of the relegation zone. With time and practice, the team should iron out its issues, although a European finish may be out of reach this season. A cup run could provide an alternative route to success, although caution is advised after previous failures.
Meanwhile, Fulham has defied expectations and is performing admirably in the Premier League. Despite losing key players like Aleksandar Mitrovic and Joao Palhinha, the team has shown significant improvement under Marco Silva. The defense, led by Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson, has been solid, while Adama Traore, Alex Iwobi, and Emile Smith Rowe are thriving in attack. Silva’s coaching prowess has been evident, and Fulham’s entertaining style of play coupled with strong defensive organization has propelled them to eighth place in the league.
Nottingham Forest, under the guidance of Nuno Espirito Santo, has been quietly impressive, particularly in defense. With an xG allowed statistic on par with Manchester City, Forest have stifled potent attacking teams like Brighton, Bournemouth, Chelsea, and Liverpool. The towering defense, led by Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo, has deterred opposition forwards from venturing into the penalty box, resulting in a high proportion of shots from outside the area. While their style may not be flashy, Forest’s defensive solidity has been crucial in their bid to stay in the Premier League.
Overall, these three teams have shown resilience, improvement, and tactical acumen in the early stages of the season. With adjustments and continued progress, they have the potential to achieve their goals and make a mark in the Premier League. Nottingham Forest’s defense has been solid this season, and with the potential return of Ibrahim Sangare and Danilo, it could become one of the best outside the top five teams in the Premier League. The backline has been a key factor in their success, as shown by the low number of shots faced by the team in the 2024-25 season, with those shots being sized by xG value.
While the defense has been impressive, Forest’s attack has also shown promise. Callum Hudson-Odoi has been in excellent form since joining the team from Chelsea, combining well with Anthony Elanga, who provides width and pace up front. Chris Wood has been among the top goal scorers in the Premier League since the appointment of Nuno as manager, but Taiwo Awoniyi has also proven to be a dangerous striker when called upon.
The strength of the defense allows Forest to cover for any defensive limitations in midfield, particularly with James Ward-Prowse, who excels at set pieces and dead ball situations. This balance between defense and attack has been crucial for the team’s success this season, and it looks like everything is clicking at the City Ground.
With the quality of players at their disposal and the solid defensive foundation, Nottingham Forest should be comfortably away from the relegation zone. The team’s ability to combine defensive solidity with attacking flair makes them a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League, and they could potentially challenge for a European spot if they can maintain their current form.
