1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results sometimes deceive? It's a valid query. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – a lower shot count (12-15), less possession (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Typically, the victory was a slender one. In keeping with form, statistical models sided with the opposition: analysis indicates United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are not won by xG. They are won by collective effort, astute coaching and moments of magic – and Villa have all three. Morgan Rogers may be their sole standout, but he’s delivering like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is crafty, seasoned, streets ahead of Ruben Amorim. If Rogers profited from a defensive lapse, that was probably because Emery had spotted that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to take up a wide position, cut in and cause him problems. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans began to believe again. They secured three league games consecutively for the first time under Ruben Amorim. They had risen 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, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, two wins, six missed opportunities. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. Following over a year in England, the manager has yet to solve how to secure victories.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was a late Saturday start on the festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was predictable with creative forces absent, and the experienced winger failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is surprising that the Toffees were in fifth place 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 ambitions for the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably become bigger with hard work and perseverance. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
Over the festive period the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. Guardiola said the players asked to have a rest day after their recent victory but he declined because they didn’t play good enough. So they will recuperate, training for the squad players, and post-holiday, then brief training for the next fixture. The manager outlined how they can get better. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could create more.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'm going to Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is superb.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Alexander Isak’s goal 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 unlock stubborn defences with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the calmness with which he converted from an incisive ball looked extremely positive. So the scene of his substitution immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward hit full tilt again. It is believed Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a long time on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with the Reds having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, putting together a string of positive results bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often moan about contentious refereeing decisions as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they want to keep private. The significant tally Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. 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 ended up drawing. 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 their winger. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by past incidents for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes going down too easily? The take of a former England striker was notable. “He sees the challenge coming,” was the analysis. “He knows the challenge is coming and he braces for it. I think he's looking for the foul. 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. Rather than celebrate, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he came through at. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; statistical models state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at virtually certain, leaving nothing to play for beyond professionalism. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
