Manchester City are in ominous form. They have won nothing yet and it's wise to remember that this time last season, they were in even better form and would go on to win their first six Premier League games. But there is something different this time around. They have spent and spent wisely, recruiting a fearless goalkeeper in Ederson and swifter, fresher full-backs Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy. They have not one, but two electric strikers.
And Kevin de Bruyne is in the form of his life.
De Bruyne has frequently impressed since he returned to England with Manchester City in 2015, but it's never been clear exactly where his best position lies.