Another exhilarating weekend of action in football across Europe is over, and the start of LaLiga and Serie A brought about another plethora of stories.
The Premier League delivered its usual drama, however the spotlight was on Spain and Italy as their respective domestic campaigns got underway. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus and Napoli all sprinkled their anticipated stardust, while the likes of Inter Milan and Villarreal got off to stuttering starts.
Here are ten chief talking points from a pivotal weekend in European football.
1. The Manchester United inquest begins
A fragmented preseason, sub-par transfer window and typically downcast Mourinho had the media buzzing around the Red Devils ahead of a season that could define how far they have fallen since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson.
But victory over Leicester on the opening day kept the football critics at bay, for a week at least, although a dreadful display at Brighton means United are at the centre of attention once again.
Jose Mourinho was unexpectedly calm in his post-match interview – usually a spectacle for those who have witnessed previous meltdowns – however it takes nothing away from a performance that underlined every reason why Manchester United are worlds away from their city rivals and the Premier League title.
Brighton were efficient and dogged, and credit goes to them after a poor first match at Watford. But as good as the Seagulls were, United were the architects of their own downfall in more ways than one. A haphazard Eric Bailly, oblivious Victor Lindelof and unimaginative attack all aided the visitors in their capitulation.
Perhaps more worrying than anything was Manchester United’s sincere lack of desire, urgency and passion as the game slowly slipped away from their grasp. A late penalty gave them brief belief, however the final whistle came moments afterwards, in turn slaying their negligible hope.
United take on a well-oiled Tottenham in their next match, and a performance similar to this one will surely welcome more scrutiny.
2. Sevilla are as good as anyone in LaLiga
Barcelona and Real Madrid, understandable title favourites as they are every season, both began with straightforward home wins. The Catalans thrashed Alaves after turning on the style in the second half, and Lopetegui’s Madrid were punchy and clinical in their meeting with Getafe.
The weekend’s prime performers, though, were a side who have played more football than anyone else in the division. Pablo Machin’s Sevilla came off the back of a 5-0 Europa League qualifying victory on Thursday, and were superb in their crushing of newly promoted Rayo Vallecano.
New loan signing Andre Silva notched a hat-trick on his debut, and Machin’s effective method of utilising both full backs – Jesus Navas and Escudero on this occasion – paid dividends.
Sevilla face a far tougher test next weekend when they lock horns with Villarreal. Right now they are the most impressive side, and are good value for a potential Champions League push.