1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Can results tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), less possession (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). As usual, the victory was by a narrow margin. In keeping with form, the xG metric was unimpressed: analysis indicates United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by cohesive units, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. Villa's emerging star might just be their sole standout, but he’s delivering like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is shrewd, battle-hardened, five years ahead of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, that was probably because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and told Rogers to begin on the flank, cut in and exploit the space. Talent and management, working together.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans began to believe again. They managed three league games consecutively for the first time under Ruben Amorim. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). Their keeper provided stability, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United slipped into a slump. Eight games, only two victories, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, the Brazilian scored a fine effort, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to key players), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival 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 festive weekend but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the attacking areas made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue was expected with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger struggling to lift an entire team on his own. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees sat fifth in the table recently given they have played all term 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 title aspirations in the Premier League. Arteta insisted that victories 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 elite players, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
During the holidays the Catalan coach will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He explained the team wanted to take a day off after their latest win but the request was denied because their display lacked quality. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then two days to prepare for the next fixture. The manager outlined 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 be more potent.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, as a turning point. This was precisely the reason Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to decide close contests with his clever positioning and composure, and the assurance with which he finished from a neat pass was highly promising. So the image of him leaving immediately, following a ill-judged tackle, was a major worry for the Dutch coach and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see such a gifted player perform at his best 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 solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear heavily dependent on those of their record signing.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often moan about debatable rulings as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season appears relevant. Their manager 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 ended up drawing. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely right to question a decision made by the referee 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 swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the benefit of considerable doubt informed by the player's history for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? Analysis from a respected pundit was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” was the analysis. “He expects the tackle and he braces for it. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for Keith Andrews. Rather than celebrate, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he came through at. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; Opta state – perhaps generously – their probability of going down at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond professionalism. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
