1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results tell the whole story? One must ask. Aston Villa's winning streak continued against Manchester United, alongside the lingering concerns. 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). As usual, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, expected goals (xG) painted a different picture: analysis indicates United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are not won by xG. They are won by cohesive units, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward might just be their primary talisman, but he’s delivering like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is crafty, experienced, five years ahead of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, it was likely because Emery had spotted that his opponent was uncomfortable, and told Rogers to begin on the flank, drive inside and torment him. Talent and management, working together.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans rediscovered hope. They managed three league games in a row for the maiden instance under their manager. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). The goalkeeper was reassuring, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and morale was high. But then United slipped into a slump. In a run of eight matches, a mere pair of successes, six disappointing results. At Villa Park they were the more dominant side without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, their forward scored a good goal, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to important midfielders), but they conceded soft goals. After 13 months in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to claim three points.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was a late Saturday start on the Saturday before Christmas but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue was expected with key attackers absent, and Jack Grealish unable to spark an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is astonishing that Everton were in fifth place in the table two weeks earlier given they have played the whole campaign without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and a return to the top of the table, the deficiency should be just as worrying given their ambitions for the Premier League. The manager claimed that positive results will inevitably be more emphatic with graft and determination. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with elite players, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
On Christmas Day the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. Guardiola said the team wanted to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but he refused because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, sessions for the fringe men, and after three days off, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. He explained how they can get better. “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 for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – I recommend it, the food is excellent.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like a statement. This was precisely the reason Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to decide close contests with his movement and range of finishing, and the assurance with which he finished from good service boded superbly. So the scene of his substitution immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a major worry for the Dutch coach and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see such a gifted player reach his peak again. Reports suggest Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he likely faces a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with the Reds having quietly moved into the top four, putting together a solid undefeated streak featuring Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their £125m investment.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season is a prime example. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that costly trend following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they eventually tied. Yet Howe was surely justified in criticising a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the benefit of considerable doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being expert at winning penalties and sometimes going down too easily? Analysis from a former England striker was notable. “He sees the challenge coming,” was the analysis. “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 relief for the Bees' boss. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he started his career with. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; statistical models state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond honour. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
