By Olukayode Olumuyiwa.
Manchester City’s Erling Haaland is amongst the standout name on the Premier League’s newly announced shortlist for September’s EA SPORTS Player of the Month, thanks to a haul of five goals and an assist across just three outings that kept the former champions rolling. The Norwegian’s efforts — including a double in the derby win over United, a sharp finish against Arsenal, and another brace versus Burnley — have him leading the scoring charts with eight for the season already.
The six-man list, revealed Wednesday, mixes established stars with emerging talents and surprise packages from the league’s underdogs. Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada has been pivotal in the Eagles’ perfect start, the only team still unbeaten after six games that included gritty results against Sunderland, West Ham, and Liverpool. The Japanese midfielder didn’t hit the net or set up goals but created five big chances and bossed 17 duels, thriving in a deeper spot under Oliver Glasner.
Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh, the young Gambian winger, made waves with a goal and two assists — matching Haaland for involvements per game — in defeats to Bournemouth and a win at Chelsea, plus a draw with Spurs where he found the scoresheet. It’s the kind of impact that’s got fans buzzing about Brighton’s flair under Fabian Hürzeler.
Sunderland, fresh from promotion, landed two spots on the list, underscoring their solid adaptation to top-flight life. Goalkeeper Robin Roefs posted two clean sheets and 13 saves (second-most among keepers) in an unbeaten run that has the Black Cats sitting fifth. His stops were crucial in draws with Palace and Villa, and a victory over Forest.
Teammate Granit Xhaka, the veteran Swiss midfielder, chipped in with two assists — both in that Forest win — while winning 23 duels, bringing his trademark steel and smarts to Régis Le Bris’ setup.
Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi rounds out the nominees, marking his Premier League arrival with two goals in three games, including a volley opener and header brace in a 3-0 thumping of Forest. The 26-year-old Spaniard, who also helped keep a clean sheet, only trailed Haaland in goals for the month.
Fans can vote until noon BST on Monday, October 6, via the Premier League site, where their picks weigh in at 10% alongside input from captains and experts. The winner gets revealed next Friday.
As the international break approaches, this shortlist highlights the Premier League’s blend of firepower, grit, and breakout stars— setting the stage for more twists ahead.
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