1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes sometimes deceive? It's a valid query. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, alongside the nagging doubts. Statistically, they were inferior by a number of key indicators – less attempts (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, statistical models painted a different picture: analysis indicates United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. Villa's emerging star may be their sole standout, but he is performing like Father Christmas. Unai Emery is wily, seasoned, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. Should Rogers have benefited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, it was likely because the coach had detected that Yoro was playing out of position, and directed his attacker to take up a wide position, drive inside and torment him. Skill and strategy, working together.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans began to believe again. They secured three league games on the bounce for the first time under Ruben Amorim. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a routine shutout). Their keeper provided stability, their forward line sparked and there was a positive mood. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, only two victories, six missed opportunities. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods 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 cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they conceded soft goals. Since his arrival in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to claim three points.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was a late Saturday start on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and Jack Grealish unable to spark an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that Everton sat fifth in the table recently given they have played the whole campaign without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their ambitions for the Premier League. He stated that positive results will inevitably become bigger with graft and determination. But it is somewhat premature 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 Strict Festive Regime for Champions
During the holidays the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. Guardiola said the players asked to enjoy a break after their recent victory but he refused because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, training for the squad players, and post-holiday, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. He explained how they can get better. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in these positions, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'm going to 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 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 finished from good service looked extremely positive. So the image of him leaving immediately, due to 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 perform at his best again. It is believed Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he likely faces a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Slot’s team having snuck up on the Champions League places, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their prize asset.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often complain about controversial calls as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season is a prime example. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they eventually tied. Yet Howe was surely justified in criticising a decision made by the match officials 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 swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the leeway informed by Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at winning penalties and sometimes simulating? Comments by a well-known analyst was interesting. “Gordon’s waiting,” he said. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the nature of the contact there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. Rather than celebrate, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he came through at. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; data analysts state – possibly kindly – their probability of going down at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond honour. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
