September International Break: Which Five EPL Players Impressed?

The first international break of the season has drawn to a close, with World Cup qualification beginning to heat up across the globe. Premier League players travelled far and wide to represent their countries, and several stood out with strong performances on the international stage.

Here are five Premier League footballers who made a big impact during the international break.

Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino continued his excellent run of form in Spain colours, extending his tally to six goals in his last six international appearances. The Arsenal midfielder had scored only twice in his first 31 caps for La Roja but has found a new rhythm in front of goal.

Merino struck as Spain eased to a 3-0 victory against Bulgaria, before taking centre stage in a stunning 6-0 triumph over Turkey. The World Cup qualifier in Konya saw the 29-year-old net a superb hat-trick. He opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, doubled his tally before the break, and sealed his treble with a brilliant curling effort from distance.

His display underlined why Mikel Arteta often deployed him in advanced positions for Arsenal last season. Merino’s form could prove decisive as Spain build momentum heading towards the World Cup.

Elliot Anderson

Elliot Anderson made an immediate impression on his senior England debut, earning back-to-back starts in Gareth Southgate’s midfield. The Nottingham Forest star was handed his first cap against Andorra and retained his place for the clash with Serbia, where he played a central role in an emphatic 5-0 win.

The 22-year-old demonstrated poise in possession, mixing determination with progressive passing that gave England greater control in midfield. Alongside Declan Rice, Anderson’s balance of tenacity and technical ability ensured the Three Lions dictated the tempo throughout.

His assured introduction into the squad highlights England’s depth and adds another option in the middle of the park as preparations intensify for next summer’s World Cup.

Noni Madueke

Competition for attacking places in England’s squad is fierce, but Noni Madueke enhanced his case with two lively displays. The Arsenal winger provided a spark in a largely uneventful win over Andorra before producing a standout performance in Belgrade against Serbia.

Madueke capped off his contribution with his first international goal, racing in behind the defence and finishing with composure to score England’s second of the night. His pace, directness, and confidence on the ball ensured he caught the eye, even amongst England’s wealth of attacking options.

With the World Cup looming, Madueke’s ability to deliver on the big stage will only boost his chances of securing a place in the squad.

Sandro Tonali

Sandro Tonali delivered one of the most dramatic moments of the international break, scoring a stoppage-time winner in Italy’s 5-4 thriller against Israel. The match, full of twists and turns, saw the Azzurri twice come from behind and concede a late equaliser before Tonali’s decisive strike.

The Newcastle United midfielder stepped up when it mattered most, sparking wild celebrations and securing a crucial three points. The result moved Italy into second place in the group, edging above Israel on goal difference.

Tonali’s clutch moment could prove a turning point in Italy’s qualification campaign, underlining his value in high-pressure situations.

Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland once again reminded the football world of his extraordinary talent with a devastating display for Norway. The Manchester City striker scored five goals and provided two assists in an astonishing 11-1 demolition of Moldova.

At 25, Haaland achieved the feat of scoring five goals in a single game for his national side for the first time. It marked his fifth hat-trick for Norway and increased his record-breaking tally to 48 goals in just 45 international appearances.

His dominance highlighted why he is regarded as one of the most lethal forwards in world football. Norway are pushing for their first World Cup appearance since 1998, and Haaland’s brilliance could be the decisive factor in securing qualification.

Conclusion

The international break served as a reminder of the Premier League’s global influence, with stars from England, Spain, Italy, and Norway making headlines. Mikel Merino’s prolific form, Elliot Anderson’s promising debut, Noni Madueke’s breakthrough moment, Sandro Tonali’s late heroics, and Erling Haaland’s extraordinary goal haul all reinforced their importance to their respective nations.

As World Cup qualifying intensifies, these standout Premier League performers will look to carry their international momentum back into club football, where their form could prove equally crucial.