Here are six key aspects to pay attention to as the Premier League makes its comeback, featuring Alexander Isak and Ange Postecoglou in the spotlight.

After a long international break, the Premier League roars back this weekend — bringing with it a fresh set of storylines and high drama.

England’s 5–0 dismantling of Serbia provided only a brief distraction; most fans have been counting down to the return of club football. With the transfer window shutting just before the break, several new signings are poised for their debuts in game week four. The marquee fixture is Sunday’s Manchester derby at the Etihad, but plenty of other narratives demand attention.

Isak’s Liverpool debut watch

Deadline Day finally saw Alexander Isak complete his £125m switch from Newcastle to Liverpool after a summer of frustration. But the Sweden striker is short on match sharpness, having barely trained in recent weeks. His national team boss Jon Dahl Tomasson admitted his rhythm isn’t there yet, meaning Arne Slot is likely to ease him in from the bench against Burnley.

Postecoglou takes charge of Forest

Nuno Espírito Santo became the season’s first managerial casualty after falling out with Nottingham Forest’s hierarchy. His replacement, Ange Postecoglou, represents a total stylistic reset — replacing pragmatism with attacking football. His Forest reign begins with a daunting trip to Arsenal.

Fresh faces in the Manchester derby

The derby could feature debutants between the posts for both sides. Manchester City are expected to start Gianluigi Donnarumma, while United may hand 23-year-old Senne Lammens his first appearance following André Onana’s loan departure. With City wobbling after back-to-back losses, the pressure is on from the start.

Newcastle’s new era without Isak

Eddie Howe must now re-shape his attack after losing Isak. Big-money arrivals Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa give him options — either as a strike duo or rotated within his favoured 4-3-3. Their test comes against Wolves, led by Jørgen Strand Larsen, a forward Newcastle had tried but failed to bring in.

Sancho seeking redemption at Villa

Jack Grealish has rediscovered form on loan at Everton, delivering four assists in three matches and reigniting his England hopes. Jadon Sancho will hope to follow a similar path at Aston Villa after again departing Manchester United. His biggest hurdle remains consistency.

Guehi back at Palace

Marc Guehi, whose Liverpool move collapsed in dramatic fashion, stays on as Crystal Palace captain. Fresh off scoring for England, the defender leads his team into Saturday’s clash with Sunderland. Though manager Oliver Glasner fought to keep him, speculation over his long-term future will linger until January