Manchester City have moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League after a thrilling 5-3 victory against Sunderland at Etihad Stadium. The win on Sunday, 20 September 2026, followed champions Arsenal's 3-0 defeat by Brighton on Saturday.
Manager Enzo Maresca, who replaced Pep Guardiola in the summer, has now won his first five Premier League games. This achievement places him among only six managers to do so, including his predecessor. City's current run includes seven consecutive victories across all competitions.
Despite conceding three goals, Maresca expressed happiness with the win, stating he prefers a 1-0 victory but expected a difficult game. He acknowledged concerns about the ease of two of the three goals conceded. Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey scored a hat-trick for the losing side, becoming only the sixth player to achieve this unwanted statistic.
City's strong start includes Antoine Semenyo scoring two goals and an assist, Rayan Cherki's performance, and Enzo Fernandez netting his first goal for the club. Striker Erling Haaland also extended his scoring record, having now scored against all 25 Premier League teams he has faced.
Following the three-week international break, City will face unbeaten Liverpool away on Sunday, 11 October.