1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results tell the whole story? It's a valid query. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, alongside the persistent questions. They were the lesser team 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 tightly contested. In keeping with form, statistical models sided with the opposition: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are not won by xG. They are won by collective effort, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward might just be their only star, but he is performing like Father Christmas. Unai Emery is shrewd, battle-hardened, streets ahead of the United boss. If Rogers profited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, it was likely because the manager identified that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to take up a wide position, move infield and torment him. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games consecutively for the initial occasion under their manager. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – an untroubled victory). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and there was a positive mood. But then United slipped into a slump. Eight games, only two victories, six missed opportunities. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, their forward scored a fine effort, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they gave away cheap scores. After 13 months in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to win consistently.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was an evening fixture on the Saturday before Christmas but a glaring absence of finesse in the final third made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was expected with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger struggling to lift an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that Everton occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the whole campaign without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and their manager, while he relished a hard-fought three points and ascending to the summit of the table, the problem should be just as worrying given their ambitions for the Premier League. The manager claimed that victories will inevitably become bigger with hard work and perseverance. 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 relying on grinding out wins.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
During the holidays the Catalan coach will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained his squad requested to enjoy a break after their latest win but the request was denied because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and after three days off, then brief training for the Nottingham Forest game. The manager outlined how they can get better. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could be more potent.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'm going to Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is superb.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, as a turning point. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to break tight games with his clever positioning and composure, and the assurance with which he clipped in from an incisive ball boded superbly. So the sight of him departing immediately, due to a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for the Liverpool manager and a shame for any neutral who would like to see a top-class forward perform at his best again. It is believed Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a long time on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with the Reds having quietly moved into the upper echelons, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often moan about debatable rulings as a means of shifting the focus from matters they want to keep private. The significant tally Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season is a prime example. Their manager certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that unfortunate habit 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 right to question a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes simulating? The take of a respected pundit was revealing. “He sees the challenge coming,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he braces for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the strength of the challenge there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. Rather than celebrate, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he came through at. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; data analysts state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
