1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Do the final scores be misleading? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by several measures – fewer shots (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was a slender one. As usual, expected goals (xG) painted a different picture: reports suggest United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and sparkling skill – and Villa boast the complete package. Villa's emerging star may be their only star, but he’s delivering like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is shrewd, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of the United boss. If Rogers profited 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. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans began to believe again. They managed three league games on the bounce 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 (on the road!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – an untroubled victory). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, only two victories, six disappointing results. At Villa Park they were the more dominant side without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored an excellent finish, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to important midfielders), but they were punished for defensive errors. 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 evening fixture on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was predictable with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger failing to inspire an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is surprising that Everton occupied a European spot in the table recently given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and their manager, while he savoured a deserved win and ascending to the summit of the table, the deficiency should be equally concerning given their title aspirations in the Premier League. The manager claimed that victories will inevitably become bigger with hard work and perseverance. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
During the holidays Pep Guardiola will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. Guardiola said the team wanted to have a rest day after their recent victory but he refused because they didn’t play good enough. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then two days to prepare for the Nottingham Forest game. He explained how the side can improve. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in these positions, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, as a turning point. 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 calmness with which he finished from an incisive ball looked extremely positive. So the sight of him departing immediately, following a reckless attempt, was a significant blow for the Liverpool manager and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see a top-class forward hit full tilt again. Reports suggest Isak has suffered a broken leg 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 bookended by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of shifting the focus from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season appears relevant. Their manager certainly did not seem too willing 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 the Magpies' boss was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the match officials not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes exaggerating? Analysis from a well-known analyst was revealing. “He sees the challenge coming,” he said. “He's prepared for the impact and he's ready. 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 relief for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; statistical models state – possibly kindly – their probability of going down at 99.17%, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond pride. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
