1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Do the final scores tell the whole story? One must ask. Aston Villa's winning streak persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by several measures – a lower shot count (12-15), less possession (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). As usual, the victory was by a narrow margin. As usual, statistical models was unimpressed: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and moments of magic – and Villa possess each ingredient. Morgan Rogers might just be their sole standout, but he’s delivering as a timely gift. The Spanish tactician is shrewd, seasoned, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from Leny Yoro’s naivety, this was almost certainly because Emery had spotted that his opponent was uncomfortable, and told Rogers to begin on the flank, cut in and torment him. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games in a row for the first time under their manager. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at home, against a promoted club, but still – a routine shutout). Their keeper provided stability, their forward line sparked and optimism was growing. But then United returned to poor form. Eight games, a mere pair of successes, six missed opportunities. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, their forward scored a good goal, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to influential figures), but they gave away cheap scores. Following over a year in England, the manager has yet to solve how to secure victories.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was a late Saturday start on the Saturday before Christmas but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the attacking areas made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and the experienced winger failing to inspire an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is remarkable that Everton occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the whole campaign without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and ascending to the summit of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably become bigger with dedication and persistence. But it is somewhat premature 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. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays the Catalan coach will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the players asked to enjoy a break after their recent victory but he refused because they didn’t play good enough. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the Nottingham Forest game. The manager outlined how they can get better. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in optimal spots, we could be more potent.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family and champagne. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is superb.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to decide close contests with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the confidence with which he converted from a neat pass was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, the victim of a ill-judged tackle, was a major worry for the Liverpool manager and frustrating for fans who would like to see such a gifted player hit full tilt 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 significant setback with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, putting together a string of positive results bookended by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear inextricably linked to those of their prize asset.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The significant tally Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season appears relevant. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem too willing to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they eventually tied. Yet Howe was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a obvious foul on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by past incidents for being skilled at earning fouls and sometimes going down too easily? Comments by a former England striker was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” came the observation. “He expects the tackle and he's ready. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the strength of the challenge there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; statistical models state – possibly kindly – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond professionalism. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
