Arsenal, the reigning champions, have demonstrated the best overall performance based on expected goals (xG) difference, even after suffering their biggest defeat in three years against Brighton last weekend. Leaders Manchester City are close behind in terms of game domination, and unbeaten Brentford's strong start is also supported by their underlying numbers.
Manchester United, despite an underwhelming start, rank among the top four teams for xG difference. Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth have also performed better than their current league positions suggest. Conversely, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Newcastle have been the least impressive in overall performance, with Newcastle's top-half position being particularly surprising given their xG.
Brighton currently possess the league's best attack, measured by the number and quality of chances created, followed by Manchester City, Brentford, and Manchester United. While Arsenal are known for their defence, eight teams have a higher xG than them. Brighton have also been clinical, scoring 15 non-penalty goals from 10.7 xG, with Newcastle being even more clinical, scoring 9 goals from 4.5 xG.
Arsenal maintain the league's best defence. Nottingham Forest and Liverpool have also established solid defensive foundations. Crystal Palace, Fulham, and Chelsea have been too open at the back, though Chelsea's 12 conceded goals may not fully reflect their defensive performance.