Premier League Gameweek 5: Ranking the Top 6 Players of the Weekend – Jackson, Diaz, and Maddison Shine
The 2024/25 Premier League season’s fifth matchday delivered plenty of drama, standout performances, and thrilling action. From last-minute equalizers to dominant comebacks, fans were treated to some of the best football so far this season.
Among the highlights were Manchester City’s crucial late equalizer against Arsenal, Tottenham’s spirited 3-1 comeback victory over Brentford, and Chelsea’s commanding 3-0 win over West Ham. This weekend saw several players step up and make their mark, proving their worth in what is shaping up to be an exciting Premier League season.
Here are the top six players from Premier League Gameweek 5:
1. Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
Nicolas Jackson was undoubtedly the standout player of Gameweek 5. Leading Chelsea’s attack in their 3-0 win over London rivals West Ham, the Senegalese international delivered a masterclass performance. Jackson scored twice and assisted the third goal, showcasing his ability to create and finish chances.
Despite the heavy criticism he faced earlier in the season, Jackson proved why Chelsea opted to keep him as their lead striker. His movement off the ball was excellent, constantly pulling defenders out of position and creating space for his teammates. His clinical finishing was on display, with both goals coming from well-timed runs that left West Ham’s defense scrambling.
Jackson’s performance was a reminder that Chelsea’s faith in him was well-placed. After this showing, it’s clear that Jackson is beginning to settle into his role as Chelsea’s primary forward, and fans will hope to see more of this form as the season progresses.
2. Luis Diaz (Liverpool)
Luis Diaz has quickly established himself as one of Liverpool’s most dangerous attacking threats, and his performance in their 3-1 win over Bournemouth was another example of his brilliance. Diaz scored twice in the first half, with both goals showcasing his technical ability and composure in front of goal.
The Colombian forward was a constant menace for Bournemouth’s defense, using his pace and quick feet to exploit gaps and create opportunities. His first goal came from a clever touch to round the goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, before coolly slotting the ball into the net. Diaz’s second goal was equally impressive, as he calmly placed the ball under the keeper after finding space in the box.
Liverpool will rely heavily on Diaz’s creativity and finishing this season, especially as they push for top-four contention. His ability to consistently deliver in big moments is crucial, and his brace against Bournemouth solidified his place among the league’s top performers for the weekend.
3. Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
Morgan Rogers has been one of the breakout stars of the 2024/25 Premier League season, and his performance in Aston Villa’s 3-1 comeback win over Wolves only further cemented his growing reputation. Rogers played a pivotal role in Villa’s second-half resurgence, providing two key assists that turned the game in his team’s favor.
Rogers’ creativity and vision were on full display as he consistently found pockets of space to exploit. His delivery for Villa’s equalizer was inch-perfect, while his second assist showed his composure under pressure, threading the ball through to set up the go-ahead goal.
At just 22 years old, Rogers has shown immense potential, and there is already speculation that an England call-up could be on the horizon. If he continues to perform at this level, Rogers could be one of the Premier League’s standout players by the end of the season.
4. Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)
After a tough start to life at Chelsea, Moises Caicedo is beginning to find his rhythm, and his performance in the 3-0 win over West Ham was arguably his best yet. The Ecuadorian midfielder was dominant in the center of the park, winning a remarkable 13 duels and providing an assist for one of Chelsea’s goals.
Caicedo’s physicality and tenacity were crucial in breaking up West Ham’s play and winning back possession. His ability to control the tempo of the game and transition quickly from defense to attack allowed Chelsea to maintain pressure on their opponents. The assist he provided was a testament to his improved decision-making, as he picked out the perfect pass to set up a goal.
Chelsea fans have been eagerly waiting for Caicedo to live up to his hefty price tag, and this performance will certainly help in silencing some of the early critics. If he can maintain this level of form, Caicedo will be a key player for Chelsea as they aim to climb the Premier League table.
5. Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace)
Dean Henderson’s performance against his former club, Manchester United, was nothing short of spectacular. The Crystal Palace goalkeeper made seven crucial saves to secure a hard-fought point in a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford, frustrating United’s attackers at every turn.
Henderson’s shot-stopping abilities were on full display as he pulled off a series of acrobatic saves, including a reflex stop to deny a close-range effort from Bruno Fernandes. His positioning and composure under pressure were instrumental in keeping Palace’s clean sheet intact, and his performance was a personal statement after leaving Manchester United in the summer.
Crystal Palace manager was be delighted with Henderson’s contributions, and if the 27-year-old can continue to perform at this level, he could become one of the Premier League’s top goalkeepers this season.
6. James Maddison (Tottenham Hotspur)
James Maddison was at his creative best in Tottenham’s 3-1 comeback victory over Brentford, proving once again why he’s a vital part of Spurs’ attack. Maddison was involved in everything good for Tottenham, creating numerous chances for his teammates and sealing the win with a composed finish late in the game.
Maddison’s ability to unlock defenses with his passing and movement has been a key factor in Tottenham’s success this season. His vision allowed him to pick out runners and set up scoring opportunities, and his goal was the result of a perfectly timed run into the box, followed by a cool finish over the Brentford goalkeeper.
Tottenham’s fans will be thrilled with Maddison’s form, and his contributions will be essential as the team pushes to stay competitive in the top half of the table.
