Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season with a fifth consecutive win but Manchester City’s new signing Erling Haaland stole the limelight with his second hat-trick in a 6-0 romp over Nottingham Forest on Wednesday.

After scoring three times in the second half in a win over Crystal Palace at the weekend, the Norwegian struck three times in the opening 38 minutes as a rampant City overwhelmed Forest. He has scored nine goals in five league games since joining City from Borussia Dortmund — a record.

Argentine Julian Alvarez, another new signing for the champions, scored twice. “It was about keeping doing what we did in the second half against Palace, play, play, play. It’s been good,” Haaland said. City have 13 points from their five games and have scored 19 goals but Arsenal are setting the pace.

Arteta pleased

Mikel Arteta’s side claimed a fifth win as they edged past Aston Villa 2-1 at the Emirates — Brazilian strike duo Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli both on target. “We are happy because we are winning the way we deserve,” Arteta said.

Carvalho winner

At Anfield, Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak scored on debut to put his side ahead but Liverpool snatched a 2-1 victory through Fabio Carvalho after Roberto Firmino had levelled in the 61st.

City sign Akanji

Manchester City have signed Swiss international defender Manuel Akanji on a five-year deal from Borussia Dortmund, the Premier League club said on Thursday. The 27-year-old, who has 41 caps for his country, is City’s fifth signing during the current window.

Antony deal

Manchester United have completed the signing of Brazil winger Antony from Ajax Amsterdam, the Premier League club said on Thursday. The 22-year-old, who joins for a reported initial fee of £80.75 million, signed a five-year contract with the option of an additional year, United said.

Faes for Leicester

Leicester City have signed Belgium defender Wout Faes from French club Stade de Reims on a five-year-deal, subject to international clearance.