1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Do the final scores tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by several measures – a lower shot count (12-15), less possession (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, expected goals (xG) painted a different picture: according to data United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, tactical brilliance and individual talent – and Villa boast the complete package. Villa's emerging star could be considered their primary talisman, but his contributions are coming with festive regularity. Unai Emery is shrewd, battle-hardened, five years ahead of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from a positional error, it was likely because the manager identified that Yoro was playing out of position, and directed his attacker to start wide, drive inside and cause him problems. Individual brilliance and coaching, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They managed three league games on the bounce for the first time under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at home, against a promoted club, but still – a routine shutout). Their keeper provided stability, their forward line sparked and there was a positive mood. But then United slipped into a slump. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six games without a win. Against Aston Villa they were the more dominant side without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, their forward scored an excellent finish, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to key players), but they conceded soft goals. Since his arrival in England, the manager has yet to solve how to claim three points.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was an 8pm kick-off on the festive weekend but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a sobering evening. 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 occupied a European spot in the table recently given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and reclaiming first place of the table, the flaw should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. Arteta insisted that positive results will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with elite players, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
On Christmas Day the Catalan coach will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. Guardiola said the players asked to enjoy a break after their latest win but he declined because their display lacked quality. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and post-holiday, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. Guardiola detailed how improvements can be made. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could be more potent.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'll visit Barcelona – I recommend it, the food is superb.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to break tight games with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the calmness with which he converted from a neat pass boded superbly. So the image of him leaving immediately, due to a rash challenge, was a major worry for the Dutch coach and frustrating for fans who would like to see such a gifted player perform at his best again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the Champions League places, putting together a solid undefeated streak bookended by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about contentious refereeing decisions as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season seems a case in point. Their manager certainly did not seem too willing to mention that costly trend following his side’s collapse from 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 on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the doubt informed by the player's history for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? The take of a former England striker was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” came the observation. “He's prepared for the impact and he's ready. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the force and aggression there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he started his career with. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; Opta state – maybe optimistically – their likelihood of the drop at 99.17%, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond professionalism. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
