Premier League Day 1: Salah shines, Zirkzee surprises as Arsenal, Brighton, Aston Villa impress

Mohamed Salah, as expected, stole the show with another record-setting performance, while Manchester United’s new signing, Joshua Zirkzee, surprised with a late match-winning goal.

Manchester United kicked off their campaign at Old Trafford with the slenderest of wins against Fulham.

While the Red Devils dominated possession and created numerous chances, it wasn’t until the dying moments of the game that they broke the deadlock.

Joshua Zirkzee, making his Premier League debut, capitalized on an opportunity to score the match-winner, giving United a 1-0 victory.

Despite Bruno Fernandes being heavily involved, it was Zirkzee who rewarded Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers with seven points, surpassing Fernandes’ three.

Liverpool continued their impressive streak, making it 12 consecutive seasons without defeat on the opening day.

Mohamed Salah, a consistent performer in first-week fixtures, once again delivered by scoring and providing an assist in their 2-0 triumph over Bournemouth.

Salah now holds the Premier League record for the most goals on matchday one, with nine to his name. Diogo Jota, who netted the first goal with Salah’s assist, also earned a solid return, bringing their combined FPL points to 19.

Arsenal also enjoyed a successful start to the season, comfortably defeating Wolves 2-0. Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz were the stars, each scoring and assisting one another, ensuring a perfect opening day for the Gunners.

Elsewhere, Newcastle United overcame a setback after Fabian Schär’s red card to secure a 1-0 win against Southampton. Alexander Isak, favoured by many to score, instead turned provider for Joelinton’s match-winning goal.

Brighton & Hove Albion secured the biggest win of the weekend with a 3-0 demolition of Everton, thanks to goals from Kaoru Mitoma, Danny Welbeck, and Simon Adingra. This result leaves Everton at the foot of the table.

Nottingham Forest’s early lead through Chris Wood was undone by Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, resulting in a 1-1 draw.

In the last fixture of the day, Aston Villa began their campaign with an impressive 2-1 victory at West Ham United.

Lucas Paquetá’s first-half penalty for the hosts cancelled out Amadou Onana’s early opener but Jhon Durán netted the winner for Unai Emery’s men to ensure Julen Lopetegui’s first game in charge of the Hammers ended in defeat.

The weekend’s action concludes with Chelsea facing Manchester City, while Tottenham will host Championship winners Leicester City on Sunday.