1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes tell the whole story? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the persistent questions. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was a slender one. As usual, the xG metric painted a different picture: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by collective effort, astute coaching and moments of magic – and Villa have all three. Morgan Rogers might just be their only star, but he is performing like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is crafty, experienced, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. Should Rogers have benefited from a defensive lapse, that was probably because the manager identified that Yoro is not a right-back, and directed his attacker to begin on the flank, move infield and torment him. Individual brilliance and coaching, combining effectively.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans felt optimism return. They managed three league games in a row for the initial occasion under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – an untroubled victory). The goalkeeper was reassuring, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and morale was high. But then United returned to poor form. In a run of eight matches, a mere pair of successes, six disappointing results. At Villa Park they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Following over a year in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to secure victories.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was an 8pm kick-off on the Saturday before Christmas but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was expected with key attackers absent, and Jack Grealish unable to spark an entire team on his own. In many respects it is surprising that David Moyes’s side occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season 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 problem should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. Arteta insisted that positive results will inevitably be more emphatic with dedication and persistence. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
On Christmas Day the City manager will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He explained his squad requested to have a rest day after their 3-0 triumph but he declined because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, training for the squad players, and after three days off, then two days to prepare for the next fixture. The manager outlined how they can get better. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family and champagne. I'm going to Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is top.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like an arrival. This was precisely the reason Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to decide close contests with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the confidence with which he converted from good service boded superbly. So the sight of him departing immediately, following a rash challenge, was a major worry for Arne Slot and a shame for any neutral who would like to see an extraordinary talent perform at his best again. It is believed Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he likely faces a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with Liverpool having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a string of positive results featuring Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear heavily dependent on those of their prize asset.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often complain about contentious refereeing decisions as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that costly trend following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick 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 expert at winning penalties and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from 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 intends to hit the deck. But the strength of the challenge there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled relief for their manager. Rather than celebrate, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; data analysts state – possibly kindly – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving nothing to play for beyond pride. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
