1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes sometimes deceive? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run continued against Manchester United, alongside the persistent questions. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – a lower shot count (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Once again, the victory was a slender one. As usual, statistical models sided with the opposition: analysis indicates United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by cohesive units, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa boast the complete package. Morgan Rogers may be their sole standout, but his contributions are coming like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is crafty, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of the United boss. Should Rogers have benefited from a defensive lapse, that was probably because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to start wide, move infield and exploit the space. Talent and management, combining effectively.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans felt optimism return. They secured three league games on the bounce for the first time under the Portuguese coach. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at home, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and there was a positive mood. But then United slipped into a slump. Eight games, only two victories, six disappointing results. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, the Brazilian scored a fine effort, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to key players), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with 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 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 astonishing that the Toffees occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he relished a hard-fought three points and reclaiming first place of the table, the flaw should be of similar concern given their title aspirations in the Premier League. Arteta insisted that winning margins will inevitably become bigger with hard work and perseverance. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
Over the festive period the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. Guardiola said his squad requested to enjoy a break after their latest win but he refused because the performance was insufficient. So they will recuperate, work for those who didn't feature, and post-holiday, then two days to prepare for the Nottingham Forest game. He explained how the side can improve. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in these positions, we could be more potent.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's a great city, the food is superb.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, as a turning point. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to decide close contests with his movement and range of finishing, and the calmness with which he finished from good service boded superbly. So the image of him leaving immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a major worry for the Dutch coach and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see a top-class forward hit full tilt again. Reports suggest Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he probably endures a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Slot’s team having snuck up on the top four, putting together a string of positive results highlighted by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear tied up with those of their prize asset.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of shifting the focus from matters they want to keep private. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season is a prime example. Their manager certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s failure to protect 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 referee not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by the player's history for being very clever at winning penalties and sometimes going down too easily? Comments by a well-known analyst was interesting. “He sees the challenge coming,” came the observation. “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 … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for their manager. Rather than celebrate, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he started his career with. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
