1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Can results tell the whole story? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). As usual, the victory was tightly contested. Consistently, statistical models painted a different picture: reports suggest United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by collective effort, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa have all three. The young forward might just be their only star, but he is performing as a timely gift. The Villa manager is wily, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of Ruben Amorim. Should Rogers have benefited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, it was likely because the manager identified that Yoro is not a right-back, and told Rogers to start wide, move infield and cause him problems. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
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 maiden instance under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and optimism was growing. But then United returned to poor form. In a run of eight matches, only two victories, six disappointing results. At Villa Park they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, the Brazilian scored a fine effort, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to influential figures), but they were punished for defensive errors. Since his arrival in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out 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 drab affair. For Everton, the issue was expected with key attackers absent, and their star man unable to spark an entire team by himself. In many respects it is surprising that Everton occupied a European spot in the table two weeks earlier given they have played all term without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he relished a hard-fought three points and reclaiming first place of the table, the problem should be just as worrying given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
On Christmas Day the City manager will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He revealed the players asked to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but he declined because their display lacked quality. So it's recovery, training for the squad players, and after three days off, then brief training for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how the side can improve. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in these positions, we could create more.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family and champagne. 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, as a turning point. This was precisely the reason Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his movement and range of finishing, and the confidence with which he clipped in from good service was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, following a ill-judged tackle, was a huge concern for the Dutch coach and a shame for any neutral who would like to see an extraordinary talent reach his peak again. It is believed Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the top four, putting together a string of positive results bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear heavily dependent on those of their prize asset.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they want to keep private. The 13 points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season appears relevant. Their manager certainly did not seem particularly eager 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 Howe was surely right to question a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the leeway informed by the player's history for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes simulating? Comments by a well-known analyst was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” came the observation. “He's prepared for the impact and he's ready. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the nature of the contact there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled joy for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he started his career with. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; Opta state – perhaps generously – their probability of going down at 99.17%, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
