Jaime Pacheco’s Zamalek are the early pace-setters in the Egyptian Premier League, with five straight wins taking the club to the top of the standings after seven matches played.

Tuesday’s 1-0 win against El Gouna gives Zamalek a two-point lead over eternal rivals and defending champions Al Ahly, who won the Egyptian title by a remarkable 21 points last season.

Fábio Martins is enjoying a fine start to life in Saudi Arabian football with Al Shabab, following his summer move from Sporting Braga.

The attacking midfielder headed to the Middle East on loan in September, having impressed last season with Famalicão, and since landing in the Saudi capital Riyadh Martins has already been recognised with an individual award.

Nuno Espírito Santo is facing his toughest – and arguably first – slump in results since taking charge of Wolverhampton Wanderers after their winless run was extended to six matches this weekend.

Fábio Silva scored his first Premier League goal in the local derby against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, but a 3-2 defeat at the Molineux Stadium means Wolves have won just once and taken five points from their last nine matches in the English top flight.

Rúben Dias has been one of the revelations of the Premier League season so far with Manchester City, having surprised many by the maturity and consistency of his performances since a summer move from Benfica.

However, for teammate and Seleção colleague João Cancelo, the development of the 23-year-old centre-back comes as no shock given Dias’ qualities on and off the pitch.