1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Do the final scores tell the whole story? One must ask. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), less possession (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Once again, the victory was by a narrow margin. Consistently, expected goals (xG) sided with the opposition: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by cohesive units, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward could be considered their sole standout, but he’s delivering as a timely gift. The Villa manager is shrewd, seasoned, streets ahead of his counterpart. If Rogers profited from a positional error, that was probably because the coach had detected that Yoro is not a right-back, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, drive inside and cause him problems. Skill and strategy, combining effectively.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans began to believe again. They had won three league games in a row for the maiden instance under Ruben Amorim. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at home, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – an untroubled victory). The goalkeeper was reassuring, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, only two victories, six disappointing results. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored an excellent finish, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they conceded soft goals. Following over a year in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to claim three points.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was a late Saturday start on the holiday period but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the opposition box made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with creative forces absent, and the experienced winger unable to spark an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played all term without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and reclaiming first place of the table, the problem should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably be more emphatic with dedication and persistence. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with elite players, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
Over the festive period the City manager will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the team wanted to have a rest day after their latest win but he declined because their display lacked quality. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and after three days off, then brief training for the Nottingham Forest game. The manager outlined how they can get better. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in these positions, we could be more potent.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family to relax. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like a statement. This was exactly what Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to break tight games with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he converted from good service was highly promising. So the scene of his substitution immediately, following a ill-judged tackle, was a huge concern for the Liverpool manager and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see such a gifted player perform at his best again. Reports suggest Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Liverpool having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their £125m investment.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often lament contentious refereeing decisions as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season appears relevant. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s inability to hold onto 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 referee not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the doubt informed by the player's history for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? Analysis from a respected pundit was revealing. “He sees the challenge coming,” came the observation. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting for it. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … it's more than just defending.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. Rather than celebrate, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he started his career with. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at virtually certain, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
