1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores be misleading? That is the question. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, expected goals (xG) was unimpressed: reports suggest United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are not won by xG. They are won by collective effort, tactical brilliance and moments of magic – and Villa boast the complete package. The young forward might just be their only star, but his contributions are coming like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is crafty, experienced, five years ahead of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from Leny Yoro’s naivety, 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, drive inside and exploit the space. Talent and management, combining effectively.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans began to believe again. They managed three league games in a row for the first time under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). Their keeper provided stability, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United slipped into a slump. Over the next eight fixtures, two wins, six disappointing results. At Villa Park they were the more dominant side without ever looking like winning. Yes, their forward scored a fine effort, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to important midfielders), but they were punished for defensive errors. 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 festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with offensive players absent, and Jack Grealish failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is astonishing that David Moyes’s side sat fifth 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 savoured a deserved win and a return to the top of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. He stated that positive results will inevitably become bigger with graft and determination. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
Over the festive period the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He explained his squad requested to have a rest day after their 3-0 triumph but he declined because they didn’t play good enough. So they will recuperate, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how the side can improve. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in the right areas, we could create more.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family and champagne. A trip to Barcelona is planned – I recommend it, the food is top.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, as a turning point. This was precisely the reason Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he clipped in from good service was highly promising. So the image of him leaving immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see an extraordinary talent reach his peak again. It is believed Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he likely faces a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with the Reds having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a string of positive results bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The 13 points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem too willing to mention that costly trend following his side’s collapse from 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 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 altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the doubt informed by past incidents for being very clever at earning fouls and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a respected pundit was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” was the analysis. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting for it. I think he’s ready to go down. But the force and aggression there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for their manager. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he came through at. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; data analysts state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond pride. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
