Bukayo Saka, Marc Guehi first Premier League Team of the Week

Bukayo Saka and Marc Guehi have been named in Flashscore’s first Premier League Team of the Week after standout performances on the opening weekend of the new campaign.

The two England internationals of African descent were among the biggest talking points as the Premier League returned with a series of impressive individual displays.

Saka looked back to his best as Arsenal began their title defence with a convincing 3-0 victory over newly promoted Coventry.

The winger, who appeared to be fully fit after previous injury concerns, was a constant threat and doubled Arsenal’s advantage by reacting quickest after Carl Rushworth had parried an effort.

His goal capped a sharp attacking performance and earned him a rating of 8.3 from Flashscore.

Saka’s inclusion comes alongside Arsenal teammate Ben White, who was rated 8.5 after playing a key role from right-back.

White repeatedly provided an outlet down Arsenal’s right flank, touching the ball 94 times and setting up Martin Odegaard with a cutback.

Guehi makes surprise impact in midfield

Guehi also secured his place in the XI with an 8.5 rating after being deployed in an unfamiliar midfield role.

The defender adapted impressively to the tactical experiment, winning eight duels and creating a big chance during the contest.

He also made his presence felt at the other end of the pitch, heading in an equaliser to help his side recover late in the game.

His selection highlights the versatility that has made the England international one of the most highly regarded defenders in the Premier League.

While Guehi’s role was unconventional, his influence was clear enough for Flashscore to recognise him among the standout performers of the opening weekend.

Palmer steals the show

Chelsea’s Cole Palmer was the highest-rated player in the Team of the Week after producing another statement performance.

Palmer received a rating of 9.2 following his influential display in Chelsea’s 3-2 victory over Fulham.

The England star completed a game-high five dribbles and was at the centre of Chelsea’s attacking play, scoring once and providing an assist.

Morgan Rogers, another of Chelsea’s major summer arrivals, also made the XI after receiving an 8.9 rating.

Rogers marked his debut with a goal and showed his physicality by winning eight duels and completing three dribbles.

Chelsea’s attacking threat was further underlined by Joao Pedro, who needed only 31 seconds to open his account for the season. The Brazilian also assisted Palmer’s goal and earned an 8.7 rating.

Brighton dominate after Villa demolition

Brighton were the other major winners in the opening weekend, with two players featuring after their emphatic 4-0 demolition of Aston Villa.

French defender Olivier Boscagli earned an impressive 8.7 rating after an almost flawless performance at the back.

He completed all but one of his 65 passes and recorded a game-high eight progressive passes as Brighton controlled the contest.

Jack Hinshelwood was even more influential, earning a 9.0 rating after scoring twice in the space of 79 seconds.

The 21-year-old first headed home unmarked before capitalising on a loose ball to complete his brace.

Hull stun United as Tzolakis impresses

Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis also earned recognition after helping the newly promoted side produce one of the weekend’s biggest shocks.

Hull defeated Manchester United 2-0, with Tzolakis keeping a clean sheet while making five saves and four high claims.

His composed display earned him an 8.2 rating.

Ipswich’s Emersonn completed the XI after scoring on his debut in their 2-1 victory over Sunderland. The forward bundled home his side’s opener and won seven duels to cap an impressive introduction to life in the top flight.

The opening weekend has already provided plenty of early statements, but for Saka and Guehi, their inclusion among Flashscore’s best performers offers an encouraging start to the new Premier League campaign.