1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Can results tell the whole story? It's a valid query. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, alongside the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. As usual, expected goals (xG) was unimpressed: according to data United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, tactical brilliance and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. Villa's emerging star might just be their only star, but his contributions are coming like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is crafty, seasoned, five years ahead of Ruben Amorim. The fact Rogers took advantage from Leny Yoro’s naivety, it was likely because Emery had spotted that Yoro is not a right-back, and instructed his winger to start wide, drive inside and exploit the space. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans felt optimism return. They managed three league games on the bounce for the initial occasion under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, 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 went back to black. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six disappointing results. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever looking like winning. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a good goal, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Following over a year in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to claim three points.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an 8pm kick-off on the festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and their star man unable to spark an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is astonishing that David Moyes’s side occupied a European spot in the table two weeks earlier given they have played all term without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and reclaiming first place of the table, the deficiency should be just as worrying given their designs on the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably be more emphatic 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. 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 enjoyed excessive celebrations. He explained his squad requested to enjoy a break after their latest win but he declined because the performance was insufficient. So they will recuperate, training for the squad players, and after three days off, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. The manager outlined how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in these positions, we could be more potent.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'll visit Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is superb.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, as a turning point. 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 an incisive ball was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, the victim of a ill-judged tackle, was a major worry 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 could be in for a long time on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, putting together a six-game unbeaten run featuring Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often moan about controversial calls as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season is a prime example. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem too willing to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they eventually tied. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the match officials not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by past incidents for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes exaggerating? The take of a respected pundit was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” was the analysis. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting for it. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled relief 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 beyond dire; Opta state – possibly kindly – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving only pride at stake beyond honour. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
