1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results sometimes deceive? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was by a narrow margin. In keeping with form, statistical models was unimpressed: reports suggest United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and moments of magic – and Villa boast the complete package. Morgan Rogers might just be their only star, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. The Spanish tactician is shrewd, experienced, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. If Rogers profited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, that was probably because the manager identified that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to start wide, cut in and exploit the space. Skill and strategy, working together.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans felt optimism return. They had won three league games on the bounce for the first time under the Portuguese coach. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, the Brazilian scored an excellent finish, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. Following over a year in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to claim three points.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an 8pm kick-off on the holiday period but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the attacking areas made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with key attackers absent, and their star man struggling to lift an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is astonishing that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table recently given they have played the whole campaign without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he enjoyed a merited victory and reclaiming first place of the table, the problem should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. The manager claimed that victories will inevitably grow more comfortable with graft and determination. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with elite players, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
Over the festive period the Catalan coach will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the players asked to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but he refused because they didn’t play good enough. So they will recuperate, sessions for the fringe men, and after three days off, then two days to prepare for the Nottingham Forest game. He explained how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in optimal spots, we could create more.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family and champagne. I'll visit 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 brief instant, as a turning point. This was exactly what Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to decide close contests with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he finished from a neat pass boded superbly. So the sight of him departing immediately, due to a rash challenge, was a major worry for Arne Slot and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward reach his peak again. There are fears Isak has suffered a broken leg and he likely faces a long time on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, putting together a string of positive results highlighted by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about controversial calls as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The significant tally Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season is a prime example. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem overly keen 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 correct to highlight a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes simulating? Comments by a former England striker was interesting. “Gordon’s waiting,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he's ready. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled a welcome result for Keith Andrews. Rather than celebrate, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; data analysts state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving nothing to play for beyond pride. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
