1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores be misleading? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run continued against Manchester United, alongside the nagging doubts. They were the lesser team by several measures – fewer shots (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. Consistently, the xG metric sided with the opposition: reports suggest United edged it 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are not won by xG. They are won by cohesive units, tactical brilliance and moments of magic – and Villa boast the complete package. Villa's emerging star might just be their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. The Villa manager is wily, battle-hardened, five years ahead of the United boss. If Rogers profited from a defensive lapse, that was probably because the coach had detected that Yoro is not a right-back, and told Rogers to take up a wide position, cut in and cause him problems. Talent and management, working together.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans felt optimism return. They had won three league games consecutively for the initial occasion under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, against a promoted club, but still – a routine shutout). Their keeper provided stability, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and there was a positive mood. But then United went back to black. Over the next eight fixtures, only two victories, six disappointing results. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, the Brazilian scored an excellent finish, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they conceded soft goals. Since his arrival in England, the manager has yet to solve 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 distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was predictable with key attackers absent, and their star man struggling to lift an entire team by himself. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees occupied a European spot in the table two weeks earlier given they have played the whole campaign without a decent striker. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that positive results will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays Pep Guardiola will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the players asked to have a rest day after their latest win but the request was denied because their display lacked quality. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, work for those who didn't feature, and after three days off, then two days to prepare for the next fixture. He explained how they can get better. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'm going to Barcelona – I recommend it, the food is top.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like a statement. This was exactly what Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his movement and range of finishing, and the calmness with which he converted from a neat pass was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, due to a rash challenge, was a major worry for the Liverpool manager and a shame for any neutral who would like to see such a gifted player hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he could be in for a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss 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 inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often moan about controversial calls as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The 13 points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season appears relevant. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they eventually tied. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely right to question a decision made by the match officials not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on their winger. 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 Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at winning penalties and sometimes simulating? Comments by a respected pundit was revealing. “He anticipates the contact,” was the analysis. “He expects the tackle and he braces for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the force and aggression there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; data analysts state – maybe optimistically – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving nothing to play for beyond professionalism. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
