1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes be misleading? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, accompanied by the persistent questions. They were the lesser team by several measures – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was tightly contested. As usual, statistical models sided with the opposition: reports suggest United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, shrewd management and individual talent – and Villa have all three. The young forward may be their only star, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. Unai Emery is wily, battle-hardened, five years ahead of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from a positional error, that was probably because the manager identified that Yoro was playing out of position, and directed his attacker to take up a wide position, cut in and torment him. Talent and management, in perfect harmony.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 last month, their fans felt optimism return. They had won 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 (on the road!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and there was a positive mood. But then United went back to black. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six missed opportunities. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, their forward scored a good goal, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to important midfielders), but they were punished for defensive errors. After 13 months in England, the manager has yet to solve how to win consistently.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an evening fixture on the holiday period but a noticeable shortage of fluency 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 on his own. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees occupied a European spot 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 just as worrying given their designs on the Premier League. He stated that victories will inevitably grow more comfortable with dedication and persistence. But it is fairly soon 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. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
Over the festive period the Catalan coach will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the players asked to have a rest day after their recent victory but the request was denied because they didn’t play good enough. So it's recovery, training for the squad players, and post-holiday, then two days to prepare for the next fixture. Guardiola detailed 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.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'm going to 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 brief instant, like a statement. This was exactly what Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to decide close contests with his clever positioning and composure, and the confidence with which he converted from a neat pass was highly promising. So the sight of him departing immediately, due to a ill-judged tackle, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and a shame for any neutral who would like to see an extraordinary talent perform at his best again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he could be in for a long time on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Slot’s team having quietly moved into the top four, putting together a string of positive results featuring Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their prospects appear inextricably linked to those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. Their manager certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s failure to protect a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely right to question a decision made by the referee 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 altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the doubt informed by the player's history for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes simulating? Analysis from a former England striker was revealing. “Gordon’s waiting,” he said. “He knows the challenge is coming and he braces for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the force and aggression there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled a welcome result for their manager. Rather than celebrate, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; Opta state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond honour. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
