1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the nagging doubts. They were the lesser team by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). As usual, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, expected goals (xG) painted a different picture: analysis indicates United edged it 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. Morgan Rogers might just be their sole standout, but he is performing like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is wily, experienced, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, it was likely 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. Skill and strategy, combining effectively.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They managed three league games consecutively for the maiden instance under Ruben Amorim. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, against a promoted club, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). Senne Lammens looked solid, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. Eight games, only two victories, six missed opportunities. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever looking like winning. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored an excellent finish, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to important midfielders), but they conceded soft goals. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to claim three points.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an evening fixture on the Saturday before Christmas but a distinct lack of quality in the final third made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue was expected with offensive players absent, and the experienced winger struggling to lift 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 enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the problem should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. Arteta insisted that winning margins will inevitably grow more comfortable with graft and determination. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
Over the festive period the City manager will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He revealed the team wanted to have a rest day after their latest win but the request was denied because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and after three days off, then brief training for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – I recommend it, the food is top.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like an arrival. This was exactly what Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to break tight games with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the calmness with which he clipped in from good service was highly promising. So the scene of his substitution immediately, following a rash challenge, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and a shame for any neutral who would like to see such a gifted player hit full tilt again. It is believed Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the top four, putting together a string of positive results highlighted by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear tied up with those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season seems a case in point. Their manager certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s failure to protect a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely justified in criticising a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check 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 Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at earning fouls and sometimes simulating? The take of a well-known analyst was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he's ready. I think he’s ready to go down. But the force and aggression there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he started his career with. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; data analysts state – maybe optimistically – their likelihood of the drop at overwhelmingly high, leaving nothing to play for beyond professionalism. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
