1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Do the final scores tell the whole story? It's a valid query. The Villans' triumphant run continued against Manchester United, alongside the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, statistical models painted a different picture: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by cohesive units, shrewd management and moments of magic – and Villa boast the complete package. The young forward could be considered their only star, but his contributions are coming like Father Christmas. The Villa manager is crafty, experienced, significantly more advanced of his counterpart. If Rogers profited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, that was probably because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to start wide, move infield and cause him problems. Talent and management, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans rediscovered hope. They managed three league games on the bounce for the maiden instance under the Portuguese coach. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at home, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). Senne Lammens looked solid, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and optimism was growing. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, a mere pair of successes, six missed opportunities. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, their forward scored an excellent finish, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to important midfielders), but they conceded soft goals. Since his arrival in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to win consistently.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an evening fixture on the Saturday before Christmas 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 the experienced winger unable to spark an entire team on his own. In many respects it is remarkable that David Moyes’s side 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 ascending to the summit of the table, the deficiency should be just as worrying given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably become bigger with hard work and perseverance. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
On Christmas Day the City manager will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. Guardiola said the players asked to have a rest day after their recent victory but he declined because their display lacked quality. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, work for those who didn't feature, and post-holiday, then brief training for the upcoming match. He explained how the side can improve. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family to relax. I'm going to Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like a statement. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to decide close contests with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he converted from a neat pass looked extremely positive. So the sight of him departing immediately, the victim of a rash challenge, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and a shame for any neutral who would like to see such a gifted player hit full tilt again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he probably endures a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Slot’s team having steadily climbed towards the Champions League places, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear inextricably linked to those of their £125m investment.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often complain about controversial calls as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season seems a case in point. 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 ended up drawing. Yet Howe was surely right to question a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the doubt informed by the player's history for being expert at winning penalties and sometimes simulating? Comments by a respected pundit was revealing. “He sees the challenge coming,” was the analysis. “He knows the challenge is coming and he braces for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the strength of the challenge there … it's more than just defending.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he came through at. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is increasingly desperate; Opta state – possibly kindly – their likelihood of the drop at overwhelmingly high, leaving nothing to play for beyond honour. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
