1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Can results tell the whole story? That is the question. Aston Villa's winning streak persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the persistent questions. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). As usual, the victory was by a narrow margin. In keeping with form, statistical models was unimpressed: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, tactical brilliance and moments of magic – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward may be their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. Unai Emery is wily, seasoned, five years ahead of the United boss. Should Rogers have benefited from a positional error, it was likely because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and told Rogers to begin on the flank, drive inside and exploit the space. Talent and management, in perfect harmony.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans felt optimism return. They secured three league games consecutively for the initial occasion under the Portuguese coach. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, their forward line sparked and optimism was growing. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, two wins, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were the more dominant side without ever looking like winning. Yes, the Brazilian scored an excellent finish, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they were punished for defensive errors. Following over a year in England, the manager has yet to solve how to claim three points.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was a late Saturday start on the holiday period but a glaring absence of finesse in the final third made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with key attackers absent, and Jack Grealish failing to inspire an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is surprising that Everton sat fifth in the table recently given they have played all term 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 problem should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. Arteta insisted that positive results will inevitably be more emphatic with dedication and persistence. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
During the holidays the Catalan coach will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. Guardiola said his squad requested to have a rest day after their latest win but he refused because the performance was insufficient. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, training for the squad players, and following a short break, then 48 hours of preparation for the upcoming match. The manager outlined how they can get better. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in these positions, we could create more.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
The Swedish striker's finish at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, as a turning point. This was exactly what Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to break tight games with his movement and range of finishing, and the assurance with which he converted from an incisive ball was highly promising. So the scene of his substitution immediately, due to a rash challenge, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see a top-class forward perform at his best again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Liverpool having steadily climbed towards the Champions League places, putting together a string of positive results bookended by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their prize asset.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often lament debatable rulings as a means of shifting the focus from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season appears relevant. The Newcastle boss 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 eventually tied. Yet Howe was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at earning fouls and sometimes simulating? Analysis from a respected pundit was interesting. “Gordon’s waiting,” he said. “He's prepared for the impact and he’s waiting for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the strength of the challenge there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled relief for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; data analysts state – perhaps generously – their chances of relegation at 99.17%, leaving nothing to play for beyond professionalism. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
