Zhan Jun's selection for the best XI after the first 9 rounds of the Premier League: Arsenal with 5 players, Chelsea with 2, and Manchester City with 1.

For many from the 70s and 80s generation, tuning into the Premier League each weekend and hearing Zhan Jun's commentary offers a comfortable escape from the fatigue of a busy week. After 9 rounds this season, Arsenal leads by 4 points, Bournemouth sits second, and newly promoted Sunderland ranks fourth. Neither Manchester City nor Liverpool are in the top four, with Manchester United equal to Manchester City but ahead of Liverpool. Does this ranking surprise you?

Famous football commentator Zhan Jun has named his ideal Premier League lineup after 9 rounds (4-4-3). Is this your dream team?

• Goalkeeper: Raya / Arsenal
• Four defenders (three from Arsenal): Timber / Arsenal, Saliba / Arsenal, Gabriel / Arsenal, Cucurella / Chelsea
• Three midfielders: Kessie / Chelsea, Xhaka / Sunderland, Rice / Arsenal
• Three forwards: Semenyo / Bournemouth, Haaland / Manchester City, Grealish / Everton

Some joke that the biggest weakness of Zhan Jun’s Premier League best XI is the lack of creativity in midfield. However, the most practical tactic in today’s Premier League is counterattacking. Arsenal is nicknamed the set-piece FC, while possession-focused Manchester City seems to have lost its magic. Having a strong midfield is key to winning the Premier League title.