1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Do the final scores be misleading? It's a valid query. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Once again, the victory was by a narrow margin. In keeping with form, statistical models was unimpressed: analysis indicates United edged it 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by solid teamwork, tactical brilliance and moments of magic – and Villa boast the complete package. The young forward may be their sole standout, but he is performing like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is crafty, battle-hardened, streets ahead of Ruben Amorim. If Rogers profited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, that was probably because the manager identified that Yoro is not a right-back, and instructed his winger to take up a wide position, cut in and torment him. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans began to believe again. They secured three league games on the bounce for the initial occasion under the Portuguese coach. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – an untroubled victory). Their keeper provided stability, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United went back to black. Eight games, a mere pair of successes, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to influential figures), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the manager has yet to solve how to win consistently.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was a late Saturday start on the Saturday before Christmas but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with offensive players absent, and their star man unable to spark an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees sat fifth in the table not long ago given they have played the whole campaign without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and ascending to the summit of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that positive results will inevitably be more emphatic with dedication and persistence. 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 needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
Over the festive period the City manager will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He revealed his squad requested to enjoy a break after their recent victory but he declined because their display lacked quality. So they will recuperate, training for the squad players, and post-holiday, then brief training for the upcoming match. He explained how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in these positions, we could be more potent.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family and champagne. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like an arrival. This was precisely the reason Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his movement and range of finishing, and the confidence with which he converted from good service looked extremely positive. So the image of him leaving immediately, following a rash challenge, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward reach his peak again. Reports suggest Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he could be in for a long time on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with the Reds having steadily climbed towards the upper echelons, putting together a string of positive results bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their £125m investment.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often lament contentious refereeing decisions as a means of shifting the focus from matters they want to keep private. The significant tally Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season appears relevant. Their manager certainly did not seem too willing to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely right to question a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at earning fouls and sometimes simulating? Comments by a well-known analyst was interesting. “He anticipates the contact,” was the analysis. “He knows the challenge is coming and he's ready. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled a welcome result for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he started his career with. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; statistical models state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond honour. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
