1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, alongside the persistent questions. On paper, they were second best by several measures – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). As usual, the victory was a slender one. As usual, expected goals (xG) painted a different picture: analysis indicates United edged it 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, tactical brilliance and individual talent – and Villa have all three. The young forward could be considered their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. Unai Emery is shrewd, seasoned, five years ahead of Ruben Amorim. Should Rogers have benefited from a defensive lapse, that was probably because Emery had spotted that Yoro was playing out of position, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, drive inside and torment him. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They secured three league games in a row for the first time under Ruben Amorim. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). Senne Lammens looked solid, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United returned to poor form. Eight games, a mere pair of successes, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, their forward scored a good goal, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to win consistently.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an evening fixture on the holiday period but a glaring absence of finesse in the opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise 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 two weeks earlier given they have played the whole campaign without a decent striker. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he relished a hard-fought three points and ascending to the summit of the table, the problem should be of similar concern given their title aspirations in the Premier League. Arteta insisted that victories will inevitably become bigger with graft and determination. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with elite players, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
Over the festive period the Catalan coach will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. Guardiola said his squad requested to have a rest day after their latest win but he refused because they didn’t play good enough. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. He explained how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in the right areas, we could generate more chances.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like a statement. This was exactly what Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his clever positioning and composure, and the confidence with which he finished from good service was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, following a reckless attempt, was a major worry for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see an extraordinary talent hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he probably endures a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Slot’s team having steadily climbed towards the Champions League places, putting together a six-game unbeaten run featuring Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear tied up with those of their £125m investment.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The significant tally Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season seems a case in point. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem too willing to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s inability to hold onto 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 obvious foul on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being expert at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? Comments by a former England striker was notable. “He sees the challenge coming,” came the observation. “He's prepared for the impact and he braces for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the force and aggression there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled relief for their manager. Rather than celebrate, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he started his career with. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; statistical models state – maybe optimistically – their chances of relegation at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
