1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Can results be misleading? One must ask. Villa's run of victories was extended versus Manchester United, alongside the lingering concerns. On paper, they were second best by multiple metrics – a lower shot count (12-15), less possession (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). As usual, the victory was a slender one. As usual, statistical models was unimpressed: reports suggest United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by collective effort, shrewd management and sparkling skill – and Villa boast the complete package. Morgan Rogers might just be their primary talisman, but he is performing like Father Christmas. Unai Emery is shrewd, experienced, significantly more advanced of Ruben Amorim. If Rogers profited from a defensive lapse, that was probably because Emery had spotted that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to take up a wide position, cut in and exploit the space. Talent and management, combining effectively.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans began to believe again. They had won three league games on the bounce for the initial occasion under Ruben Amorim. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and optimism was growing. But then United slipped into a slump. Eight games, only two victories, six disappointing results. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a good goal, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to influential figures), but they conceded soft goals. Following over a year in England, the manager has yet to solve how to win consistently.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was a late Saturday start on the holiday period but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the final third made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with key attackers absent, and the experienced winger unable to spark an entire team by himself. In many respects it is surprising that David Moyes’s side sat fifth in the table not long ago given they have played the whole campaign without a decent striker. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he relished a hard-fought three points and reclaiming first place of the table, the deficiency should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably become bigger with graft and determination. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays the Catalan coach will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He revealed his squad requested to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but he refused because they didn’t play good enough. So they will recuperate, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then brief training for the next fixture. Guardiola detailed how the side can improve. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could create more.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, as a turning point. This was precisely the reason 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 an incisive ball looked extremely positive. So the scene of his substitution immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for the Liverpool manager and frustrating for fans who would like to see a top-class forward hit full tilt again. It is believed Isak has suffered a broken leg and he likely faces a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with the Reds having quietly moved into the top four, putting together a six-game unbeaten run highlighted by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear inextricably linked to those of their £125m investment.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often lament controversial calls as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The significant tally Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that costly trend 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 right to question a decision made by the match officials not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on the England international. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes simulating? The take of a well-known analyst was interesting. “Gordon’s waiting,” was the analysis. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting for it. I think he's looking for the foul. But the force and aggression there … it's more than just defending.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he started his career with. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; statistical models state – maybe optimistically – their chances of relegation at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
