1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over 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 a slender one. As usual, expected goals (xG) sided with the opposition: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and sparkling skill – and Villa boast the complete package. Villa's emerging star could be considered their sole standout, but he’s delivering as a timely gift. The Villa manager is crafty, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. Should Rogers have benefited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, that was probably because the manager identified that Yoro was playing out of position, and instructed his winger to take up a wide position, move infield and torment him. Individual brilliance and coaching, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans began to believe again. They had won three league games in a row for the first time under Ruben Amorim. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, against a promoted club, but still – a routine shutout). Their keeper provided stability, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and optimism was growing. But then United returned to poor form. In a run of eight matches, a mere pair of successes, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were the more dominant side without ever looking like winning. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a good goal, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they conceded soft goals. After 13 months in England, the manager has yet to solve how to claim three points.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an evening fixture on the Saturday before Christmas but a distinct lack of quality in the final third made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was predictable with key attackers absent, and Jack Grealish unable to spark an entire team on his own. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played all term without a decent striker. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he savoured a deserved win and a return to the top of the table, the deficiency should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. Arteta insisted that winning margins will inevitably become bigger 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 needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
Over the festive period the Catalan coach will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. Guardiola said his squad requested to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but he refused because they didn’t play good enough. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then two days to prepare for the Nottingham Forest game. Guardiola detailed how they can get better. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family and champagne. A trip to Barcelona is planned – I recommend it, the food is excellent.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to decide close contests with his clever positioning and composure, and the assurance with which he converted from an incisive ball was highly promising. So the scene of his substitution immediately, following a ill-judged tackle, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see an extraordinary talent perform at his best again. Reports suggest Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Slot’s team having snuck up on the top four, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear heavily dependent on those of their record signing.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often lament debatable rulings as a means of shifting the focus from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The significant tally Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season seems a case in point. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem particularly eager 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 justified in criticising a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the benefit of considerable doubt informed by past incidents for being expert at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? The take of a former England striker was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” 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 constitutes a foul.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled a welcome result for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
