1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Are match outcomes tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, alongside the lingering concerns. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was by a narrow margin. As usual, the xG metric sided with the opposition: analysis indicates United edged it 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are not won by xG. They are won by cohesive units, astute coaching and moments of magic – and Villa have all three. The young forward might just be their only star, but his contributions are coming with festive regularity. The Spanish tactician is crafty, experienced, significantly more advanced of the United boss. If Rogers profited from a defensive lapse, it was likely because the manager identified that Yoro was playing out of position, and directed his attacker to begin on the flank, move infield and torment him. Skill and strategy, working together.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games on the bounce for the maiden instance under the Portuguese coach. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – an untroubled victory). Senne Lammens looked solid, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, a mere pair of successes, six games without a win. 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 unlucky with injuries (to important midfielders), but they were punished for defensive errors. Following over a year in England, the manager has yet to solve how to win consistently.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was a late Saturday start on the Saturday before Christmas but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the final third made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and the experienced winger failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that David Moyes’s side were in fifth place in the table recently given they have played the whole campaign without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and reclaiming first place of the table, the problem should be just as worrying given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that positive results will inevitably become bigger with hard work and perseverance. 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 dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
Over the festive period Pep Guardiola will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He revealed his squad requested to enjoy a break after their latest win but he declined because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in the right areas, we could be more potent.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family and champagne. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to break tight games with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the calmness with which he converted from an incisive ball was highly promising. So the image of him leaving immediately, due to a ill-judged tackle, was a major worry for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see an extraordinary talent hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he could be in for a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with the Reds having steadily climbed towards the Champions League places, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear tied up with those of their record signing.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The 13 points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe 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 eventually tied. Yet Newcastle’s manager 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 penalty could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the defender the leeway informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at earning fouls and sometimes going down too easily? The take of a former England striker was interesting. “Gordon’s waiting,” was the analysis. “He expects the tackle and he's ready. I think he’s ready to go down. But the force and aggression there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he started his career with. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; Opta state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at virtually certain, leaving only pride at stake beyond honour. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
