Manchester City open three-point gap at Premier League summit
Manchester City have moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League after five matches, giving them the early advantage in this season's title race.
The gap, built across the opening weeks of the campaign, puts the pressure on their closest rivals to respond as the schedule thickens in the coming months.
Early signs, long road ahead
Five matches is a small sample in a 38-game season, but a three-point cushion gives City breathing room as they look to build consistency.
Their rivals will be watching closely, aware that small margins now can shape how the table looks when the business end of the season arrives.