1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results tell the whole story? That is the question. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by several measures – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was by a narrow margin. Consistently, the xG metric painted a different picture: analysis indicates United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. Morgan Rogers may be their sole standout, but he’s delivering as a timely gift. The Spanish tactician is shrewd, battle-hardened, five years ahead of Ruben Amorim. Should Rogers have benefited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, this was almost certainly because the manager identified that Yoro was playing out of position, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, move infield and exploit the space. Talent and management, working together.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games on the bounce for the first time under their manager. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, against a promoted club, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). Senne Lammens looked solid, their forward line sparked and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. Eight games, only two victories, six disappointing results. In the recent fixture they were the more dominant side without ever looking like winning. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. After 13 months in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to secure victories.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was an 8pm kick-off on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was predictable with offensive players absent, and their star man struggling to lift an entire team on his own. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played all term without a decent striker. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and a return to the top of the table, the deficiency should be equally concerning given their designs on the Premier League. He stated that victories will inevitably be more emphatic with hard work and perseverance. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
Over the festive period Pep Guardiola will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He revealed his squad requested to take a day off after their 3-0 triumph but the request was denied because they didn’t play good enough. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then two days to prepare for the next fixture. He explained how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in these positions, we could create more.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is superb.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, as a turning point. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the assurance with which he converted from a neat pass was highly promising. So the image of him leaving immediately, due to a ill-judged tackle, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward hit full tilt again. Reports suggest Isak has suffered a broken leg and he likely faces a long time on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Slot’s team having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, putting together a string of positive results featuring Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear heavily dependent on those of their prize asset.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The 13 points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season is a prime example. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that costly trend following his side’s failure to protect a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely right to question a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a obvious foul on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being expert at drawing contact and sometimes going down too easily? Comments by a former England striker was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” he said. “He knows the challenge is coming and he's ready. I think he's looking for the foul. But the strength of the challenge there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled joy for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; statistical models state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
