Haaland shines and Ronaldo distraction – what we learned in the Premier League

Erling Haaland struck twice on his Premier League debut but Erik ten Hag’s reign at Manchester United got off to a losing start.

Here, the PA news agency looks at some things we learned from the opening weekend of the Premier League season.

Haaland did not need time after all

While few doubted that Erling Haaland would score plenty of goals for Manchester City, there was a feeling after last week’s Community Shield – when he failed to find the net and missed a gilt-edged chance – he could take time to settle. The Norwegian would need to adapt to the Premier League and City, having not played with a forward like him in recent years, would need to get used to him. All that now seems to have been emphatically swept away after his double in City’s 2-0 win at West Ham. He confidently struck the opener from the penalty spot and clinically tucked home his second. He looked every inch the fearsome prospect City hoped he would be.

Ronaldo issue remains a distraction for Ten Hag

Midfield questions at Liverpool

Spurs hype seems justified

One convincing victory over a ragged Southampton may hardly be an indicator of great things to come, but Antonio Conte’s Tottenham were impressive in beating them 4-1 on Saturday. Spurs’ prospects for the campaign have been talked up after a strong summer in the transfer market and their display did justify some of the optimism. Their movement looked good and the new signings that played fitted in well. With goals from Harry Kane not even needed on this occasion, Spurs fans can feel happy.

Newcastle also have reason for optimism