1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run continued against Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by a number of key indicators – fewer shots (12-15), less possession (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was a slender one. As usual, statistical models sided with the opposition: according to data United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by collective effort, tactical brilliance and individual talent – and Villa boast the complete package. Villa's emerging star may be their only star, but he is performing as a timely gift. The Villa manager is shrewd, battle-hardened, streets ahead of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, that was probably because Emery had spotted that Yoro was playing out of position, and told Rogers to begin on the flank, cut in and exploit the space. Talent and management, in perfect harmony.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans felt optimism return. They managed three league games consecutively for the first time under Ruben Amorim. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at home, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). Senne Lammens looked solid, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and optimism was growing. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, two wins, six disappointing results. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, their forward scored a fine effort, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the manager has yet to solve how to secure victories.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an 8pm kick-off 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 expected with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is astonishing that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a decent striker. For Arsenal and their manager, while he enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. He stated that positive results will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
On Christmas Day 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 their display lacked quality. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then brief training for the upcoming match. The manager outlined how improvements can be made. “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 and champagne. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's highly recommended, the food is top.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like a statement. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to decide close contests with his movement and range of finishing, and the calmness with which he clipped in from good service looked extremely positive. So the image of him leaving immediately, the victim of a rash challenge, was a huge concern for the Dutch coach and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see a top-class forward hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Slot’s team having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, 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 prize asset.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season is a prime example. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem too willing to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s failure to protect a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they eventually tied. Yet Howe was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the match officials 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 swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the doubt informed by the player's history for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? The take of a respected pundit was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” 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. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he came through at. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – perhaps generously – their chances of relegation at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond professionalism. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
