European football: Ten talking points from the weekend
9. David Silva makes a pleasant return to Manchester City
Kevin de Bruyne’s injury, which might leave him sidelined until November, means Pep Guardiola will have to search elsewhere for midfield creativity and guile.
Bernardo Silva has already proven he can supply quality from the centre, and an old favourite David Silva gave City a timely reminder why he is still a surefire option to ensure the Sky Blues aren’t left wanting without their Belgian maestro.
His exquisite second half free kick against Huddersfield was a mere glimpse into how significant he can be for Manchester City. The crowd were wowed, as they often are, by the Spaniard’s trickery and footballing mastermind as he helped rip their toothless opponents apart.
Silva has had personal trouble with the premature birth of his son, and it was a heart-warming sight to see his 1-year-old in the stands for the first time. He witnessed a masterclass.
Attacking midfield is a position Kevin de Bruyne has made his own, but City could be set to rely on the Silva pair for inspiration, and that is looking like more of a positive than a hindrance.
10. Napoli avoid opening day banana skin
Maurizio Sarri has undoubtedly left his stamp on a Napoli side closer than anyone to pinching the Scudetto off Juventus. The Partenopei embark on this season’s journey without their eccentric manager, with glittering Carlo Ancelotti taking the reins instead.
A transition phase could leave Napoli some way off the champions this year, however they did what Inter Milan couldn’t and got an opening day victory in tough circumstances. It suggests they are prepared to mount a serious challenge under Ancelotti, and that would make Serie A an even more exciting prospect.
Napoli made a substandard start to their match against Lazio at the weekend – conceding early on – but they slowly regained composure and looked a side worthy of challenging Juventus for the crown.
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Whether they can build on their optimistic start, in another tough encounter against AC Milan, will be revealed next week.