1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results be misleading? That is the question. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, alongside the persistent questions. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was a slender one. In keeping with form, statistical models was unimpressed: reports suggest United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and moments of magic – and Villa possess each ingredient. Morgan Rogers may be their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. The Spanish tactician is crafty, battle-hardened, streets ahead of the United boss. Should Rogers have benefited from a positional error, this was almost certainly because the coach had detected that Yoro is not a right-back, and directed his attacker to take up a wide position, drive inside and exploit the space. Individual brilliance and coaching, working together.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans felt optimism return. They secured three league games consecutively for the initial occasion under their manager. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, against a promoted club, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United slipped into a slump. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six missed opportunities. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, their forward scored a good goal, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Following over a year in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to win consistently.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was a late Saturday start on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was expected with offensive players absent, and Jack Grealish struggling to lift an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is astonishing that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table two weeks earlier given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the problem should be equally concerning given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that victories will inevitably be more emphatic with hard work and perseverance. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with elite players, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
Over the festive period the Catalan coach will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He explained the players asked to take a day off after their 3-0 triumph but he declined because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then two days to prepare for the next fixture. The manager outlined how improvements can be made. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in these positions, we could be more potent.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'm going to Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is superb.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, as a turning point. This was precisely the reason Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to break tight games with his movement and range of finishing, and the assurance with which he converted from good service boded superbly. So the image of him leaving immediately, following a ill-judged tackle, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see such a gifted player hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he could be in for a long time on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the top four, putting together a string of positive results bookended by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear inextricably linked to those of their £125m investment.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season seems a case in point. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem too willing to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Howe was surely right to question a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by past incidents for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes going down too easily? Analysis from a well-known analyst was revealing. “He anticipates the contact,” was the analysis. “He knows the challenge is coming and he's ready. I think he's looking for the foul. But the nature of the contact there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he started his career with. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; statistical models state – maybe optimistically – their probability of going down at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
