1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Can results be misleading? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. Statistically, they were inferior by a number of key indicators – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. As usual, statistical models was unimpressed: reports suggest United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and moments of magic – and Villa boast the complete package. Morgan Rogers might just be their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. Unai Emery is crafty, battle-hardened, five years ahead of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from Leny Yoro’s naivety, that was probably because the manager identified that Yoro is not a right-back, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, move infield and exploit the space. Talent and management, working together.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans began to believe again. They secured three league games in a row for the initial occasion under Ruben Amorim. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at home, against a promoted club, but still – an untroubled victory). Senne Lammens looked solid, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and morale was high. But then United returned to poor form. Eight games, only two victories, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored an excellent finish, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. After 13 months in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to secure victories.
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 opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was predictable with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger struggling to lift an entire team by himself. In many respects it is astonishing that David Moyes’s side sat fifth in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory 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 positive results will inevitably become bigger with dedication and persistence. 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 dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
On Christmas Day the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He explained his squad requested to enjoy a break after their recent victory but he declined because their display lacked quality. So they will recuperate, sessions for the fringe men, and post-holiday, then brief training for the upcoming match. He explained how they can get better. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in these positions, we could create more.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family for celebrations. A trip to Barcelona is planned – I recommend it, the food is excellent.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, as a turning point. This was the very purpose Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to break tight games with his movement and range of finishing, and the calmness with which he finished from an incisive ball was highly promising. So the scene of his substitution immediately, following a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and frustrating for fans who would like to see an extraordinary talent hit full tilt again. It is believed 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 the Reds having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a six-game unbeaten run highlighted by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear heavily dependent on those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The 13 points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season seems a case in point. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that unfortunate habit 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 Howe was surely justified in criticising a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the benefit of considerable doubt informed by past incidents for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes going down too easily? The take of a respected pundit was revealing. “He sees the challenge coming,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he’s waiting for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the nature of the contact there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled a welcome result for the Bees' boss. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he started his career with. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; statistical models state – maybe optimistically – their likelihood of the drop at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
