1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Do the final scores be misleading? It's a valid query. Villa's run of victories was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the nagging doubts. Statistically, they were inferior by several measures – a lower shot count (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Once again, the victory was by a narrow margin. Consistently, statistical models was unimpressed: according to data United edged it 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by cohesive units, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa have all three. Villa's emerging star may be their only star, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. The Villa manager is wily, seasoned, five years ahead of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, it was likely because Emery had spotted that Yoro was playing out of position, and instructed his winger to start wide, drive inside and exploit the space. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Following United's victory over Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans felt optimism return. They had won three league games on the bounce for the maiden instance under the Portuguese coach. They had risen to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – an untroubled victory). Their keeper provided stability, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and optimism was growing. But then United slipped into a slump. Over the next eight fixtures, only two victories, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, the Brazilian scored a fine effort, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were hit by fitness issues (to influential figures), but they were punished for defensive errors. Since his arrival in England, Amorim still hasn’t worked out how to win consistently.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was an evening fixture on the festive weekend but a glaring absence of finesse in the opposition box made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with creative forces absent, and their star man struggling to lift an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that Everton occupied a European spot in the table not long ago given they have played the whole campaign without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he savoured a deserved win and reclaiming first place of the table, the deficiency should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins 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 international stars, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
During the holidays the Catalan coach will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained his squad requested to enjoy a break after their latest win but the request was denied because the performance was insufficient. So they will recuperate, sessions for the fringe men, and following a short break, then brief training for the upcoming match. 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 optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation 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 an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to decide close contests with his movement and range of finishing, and the calmness with which he converted from a neat pass boded superbly. So the image of him leaving immediately, following a rash challenge, was a significant blow for the Liverpool manager and a shame for any neutral who would like to see such a gifted player reach his peak again. It is believed Isak has suffered a broken leg and he could be in for a long time on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Liverpool having quietly moved into the upper echelons, putting together a solid undefeated streak featuring Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their prize asset.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often moan about debatable rulings as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The significant tally Newcastle have failed to secure from leading situations this season seems a case in point. Eddie Howe 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 ended up drawing. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely justified in criticising a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes exaggerating? Comments by a well-known analyst was interesting. “He sees the challenge coming,” came the observation. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting for it. I think he’s ready to go down. But the strength of the challenge there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s maiden victory on the road this season spelled joy for their manager. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he started his career with. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; data analysts state – maybe optimistically – their likelihood of the drop at virtually certain, leaving nothing to play for beyond honour. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
