1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Do the final scores be misleading? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the persistent questions. On paper, they were second best by a number of key indicators – fewer shots (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was tightly contested. As usual, statistical models painted a different picture: analysis indicates United edged it 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. The young forward might just be their only star, but he is performing as a timely gift. The Spanish tactician is crafty, experienced, significantly more advanced of Ruben Amorim. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, that was probably because the manager identified that Yoro is not a right-back, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, cut in and exploit the space. Talent and management, in perfect harmony.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games consecutively for the first time under the Portuguese coach. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, against a promoted club, but still – an untroubled victory). Their keeper provided stability, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and there was a positive mood. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six games without a win. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to key players), but they conceded soft goals. After 13 months in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to claim three points.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an 8pm kick-off on the festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with key attackers absent, and their star man unable to spark an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees occupied a European spot 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 a return to the top of the table, the problem should be of similar concern given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably become bigger with graft and determination. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays Pep Guardiola will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. Guardiola said the players asked to take a day off after their 3-0 triumph but the request was denied because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and post-holiday, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. Guardiola detailed how they can get better. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in the right areas, we could generate more chances.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, as a turning point. This was the very purpose Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to decide close contests with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he converted from a neat pass boded superbly. So the image of him leaving immediately, following a rash challenge, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward perform at his best again. Reports suggest Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he could be in for a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Slot’s team having quietly moved into the upper echelons, putting together a six-game unbeaten run featuring Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often lament debatable rulings as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem too willing to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s failure to protect a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet Howe was surely correct to highlight 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 12-yard award could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by past incidents for being skilled at drawing contact and sometimes exaggerating? The take of a respected pundit was interesting. “He sees the challenge coming,” he said. “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 … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – perhaps generously – their probability of going down at 99.17%, leaving nothing to play for beyond pride. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
