1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Can results be misleading? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Typically, the victory was a slender one. Consistently, expected goals (xG) was unimpressed: reports suggest United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and moments of magic – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward might just be their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. The Villa manager is crafty, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. Should Rogers have benefited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, it was likely because the manager identified that Yoro was playing out of position, and directed his attacker to begin on the flank, drive inside and torment him. Talent and management, combining effectively.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans felt optimism return. They had won three league games in a row for the initial occasion under the Portuguese coach. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and optimism was growing. But then United returned to poor form. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, the Brazilian scored a good goal, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to important midfielders), but they were punished for defensive errors. Since his arrival in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to secure victories.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was a late Saturday start on the holiday period but a glaring absence of finesse in the opposition box made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was expected with offensive players absent, and Jack Grealish struggling to lift an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is surprising that David Moyes’s side occupied a European spot in the table two weeks earlier given they have played the entire season without a decent striker. For Arsenal and their manager, while he savoured a deserved win and reclaiming first place of the table, the deficiency should be of similar concern given their title aspirations in the Premier League. He stated that victories will inevitably be more emphatic with hard work and perseverance. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
Over the festive period Pep Guardiola will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the players asked to enjoy a break after their latest win but he declined because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, training for the squad players, and following a short break, then brief training for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how they can get better. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could generate more chances.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family to relax. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is excellent.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like a statement. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to decide close contests with his movement and range of finishing, and the confidence with which he clipped in from a neat pass boded superbly. So the scene of his substitution immediately, due to a ill-judged tackle, was a significant blow for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see such a gifted player hit full tilt again. It is believed Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a long time 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 featuring Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear inextricably linked to those of their £125m investment.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often moan about contentious refereeing decisions as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The significant tally Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season seems a case in point. Their manager certainly did not seem too willing to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Newcastle’s manager 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 their winger. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at earning fouls and sometimes exaggerating? Comments by a respected pundit was interesting. “He anticipates the contact,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he braces for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the force and aggression there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; Opta state – perhaps generously – their chances of relegation at virtually certain, leaving nothing to play for beyond pride. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
