5 Premier League Players Who Stood Out During the International Break

The opening international break of the season has wrapped up, and World Cup qualifying matches gave us plenty to talk about. Several Premier League stars turned heads with their performances while on duty with their national teams. Here’s a look at five who truly impressed over the break.

Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino has hit a remarkable run of form for Spain. The Arsenal midfielder, who once struggled to make an impact in front of goal for his country, now looks unstoppable. Having scored just twice in his first 31 international appearances, he has now netted six goals in as many games.

During the break, Merino grabbed one goal in a 3-0 victory over Bulgaria before producing a sensational hat-trick in Spain’s crushing 6-0 win against Turkey. He struck twice in the first half and then capped his evening with a superb curling shot from distance. His newfound attacking threat is proving invaluable, and it reflects why Mikel Arteta occasionally deploys him in advanced roles for Arsenal.

Elliot Anderson

Elliot Anderson’s arrival in the England squad couldn’t have gone much better. The Nottingham Forest midfielder was handed two starts and took full advantage. His debut against Andorra was composed, but it was his second outing when England won 5-0 over Serbia that truly highlighted his potential.

At 22, Anderson displayed calmness in possession and the perfect mix of energy and composure. Playing alongside Declan Rice, he gave England’s midfield a balance that has sometimes been missing. His poise and work rate suggest he could quickly become a regular fixture for Gareth Southgate’s side.

Noni Madueke

Breaking into England’s frontline is no easy task, but Noni Madueke made a strong case for himself. The Arsenal winger looked bright in a dull win over Andorra and followed that up with a standout performance against Serbia.

Madueke capped his display with his first international goal, racing behind the defense before slotting home with confidence. His pace, directness, and ability to stretch defenses could make him a valuable weapon as England prepare for the World Cup.

Sandro Tonali

Italy’s clash with Israel turned into one of the most dramatic fixtures of the break, and Sandro Tonali played the role of match-winner. The Newcastle midfielder scored a stoppage-time goal to seal a thrilling 5-4 victory, rescuing three crucial points for the Azzurri.

Italy twice came from behind, conceded a late equalizer, and still found a way through thanks to Tonali’s late intervention. The victory lifted Italy above Israel in their qualifying group on goal difference and could prove a pivotal moment in their push toward the finals.

Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland reminded everyone why he’s one of the game’s most feared forwards as Norway demolished Moldova 11-1. The Manchester City striker delivered a devastating performance, scoring five times and setting up two more.

The 25-year-old has already rewritten Norway’s scoring records. With 48 goals in just 45 international caps, he continues to raise the bar. His display included his fifth career hat-trick for Norway and his first-ever five-goal haul at international level. If Norway secures World Cup qualification, Haaland will be one of the tournament’s must-watch players.