1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results sometimes deceive? One must ask. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the persistent questions. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Once again, the victory was a slender one. Consistently, statistical models painted a different picture: according to data United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by cohesive units, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa boast the complete package. The young forward could be considered their only star, but he is performing like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is wily, battle-hardened, streets ahead of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from a positional error, it was likely because the coach had detected that Yoro is not a right-back, and instructed his winger to take up a wide position, move infield and cause him problems. Individual brilliance and coaching, working together.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
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 the Portuguese coach. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and there was a positive mood. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six missed opportunities. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also blazed over a simple chance. 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 an evening fixture on the festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the final third made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was expected with offensive players absent, and Jack Grealish failing to inspire an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table two weeks earlier given they have played the entire season without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he relished a hard-fought three points and ascending to the summit of the table, the flaw should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. The manager claimed that victories will inevitably grow more comfortable with graft and determination. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays the City manager will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He revealed his squad requested to take a day off after their 3-0 triumph but he declined because their display lacked quality. So they will recuperate, training for the squad players, and post-holiday, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. Guardiola detailed how they can get better. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in optimal spots, we could create more.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family to relax. I'll visit Barcelona – I recommend it, the food is superb.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like a statement. This was the very purpose Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to break tight games with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he finished from good service was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, the victim of 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 perform at his best again. There are fears Isak has suffered a broken leg and he could be in for a long time on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with the Reds having snuck up on the upper echelons, putting together a solid undefeated streak bookended by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear heavily dependent on those of their £125m investment.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often moan about contentious refereeing decisions as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they want to keep private. The 13 points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season seems a case in point. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that costly trend following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they eventually tied. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely justified in criticising a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the defender the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being expert at winning penalties and sometimes exaggerating? Comments by a former England striker was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” came the observation. “He expects the tackle 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. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. Rather than celebrate, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he came through at. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; Opta state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving only pride at stake beyond professionalism. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
