1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Are match outcomes sometimes deceive? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the persistent questions. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – a lower shot count (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. Consistently, expected goals (xG) was unimpressed: reports suggest United edged it 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by collective effort, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. Morgan Rogers might just be their primary talisman, but his contributions are coming with festive regularity. The Spanish tactician is crafty, experienced, five years ahead of his counterpart. If Rogers profited from a defensive lapse, this was almost certainly because Emery had spotted that Yoro was playing out of position, and told Rogers to start wide, move infield and exploit the space. Individual brilliance and coaching, working together.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans began to believe again. They had won three league games in a row for the first time under the Portuguese coach. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at home, against a promoted club, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, only two victories, six games without a win. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, the Brazilian scored an excellent finish, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to influential figures), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to secure victories.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an 8pm kick-off on the holiday period but a glaring absence of finesse in the attacking areas made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and their star man failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is surprising that Everton sat fifth in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and their manager, while he relished a hard-fought three points and a return to the top of the table, the problem should be just as worrying given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that victories will inevitably be more emphatic with hard work and perseverance. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
On Christmas Day the City manager will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He revealed the team wanted to enjoy a break after their latest win but the request was denied because the performance was insufficient. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, sessions for the fringe men, and after three days off, then brief training for the Nottingham Forest game. Guardiola detailed how improvements can be made. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in the right areas, we could be more potent.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. A trip to Barcelona is planned – I recommend it, the food is excellent.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, as a turning point. This was exactly what Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to break tight games with his movement and range of finishing, and the assurance with which he converted from a neat pass was highly promising. So the scene of his substitution 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 such a gifted player reach his peak again. There are fears Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he likely faces a long time on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Slot’s team having snuck up on the top four, putting together a solid undefeated streak bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their prospects appear tied up with those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season seems a case in point. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem too willing to mention that problematic pattern 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 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 the England international. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the leeway informed by the player's history for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes simulating? Analysis from a well-known analyst was revealing. “Gordon’s waiting,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he's ready. I think he's looking for the foul. But the force and aggression there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled a welcome result for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he came through at. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond professionalism. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
