1. The Villa Heist: Rogers & Emery's Masterclass
Can results be misleading? It's a valid query. Aston Villa's winning streak was extended versus Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. On paper, they were second best by several measures – less attempts (12-15), less possession (43-57), a scarcity of clear opportunities (2-3). As usual, the victory was tightly contested. As usual, expected goals (xG) painted a different picture: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by solid teamwork, tactical brilliance and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. Morgan Rogers might just be their primary talisman, but he’s delivering with festive regularity. The Villa manager is crafty, seasoned, streets ahead of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from a defensive lapse, this was almost certainly because Emery had spotted that Yoro was playing out of position, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, cut in and cause him problems. Skill and strategy, working together.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans felt optimism return. They had won three league games on the bounce for the initial occasion under their manager. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at home, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a routine shutout). The goalkeeper was reassuring, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United went back to black. Eight games, two wins, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, the Brazilian scored a fine effort, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Following over a year 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 8pm kick-off on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the final third made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was expected with key attackers absent, and Jack Grealish unable to spark an entire team on his own. In many respects it is surprising that Everton were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and their manager, while he savoured a deserved win and reclaiming first place of the table, the problem should be of similar concern given their ambitions for the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably be more emphatic with hard work and perseverance. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
During the holidays the Catalan coach will monitor the scales to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He revealed the players asked to have a rest day after their latest win but the request was denied because their display lacked quality. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, training for the squad players, and post-holiday, then two days to prepare for the upcoming match. The manager outlined how improvements can be made. “I excel at analyzing what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in optimal spots, we could create more.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family to relax. I'm going to Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, as a turning point. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to unlock stubborn defences with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the confidence with which he converted from a neat pass boded superbly. So the sight of him departing immediately, due to a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator 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 long time on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with the Reds having snuck up on the top four, putting together a six-game unbeaten run featuring Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often moan about contentious refereeing decisions as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they want to keep private. The 13 points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season seems a case in point. The Newcastle boss 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 the Magpies' boss was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a obvious foul on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the doubt informed by past incidents for being very clever at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? Analysis from a respected pundit was revealing. “He anticipates the contact,” came the observation. “He's prepared for the impact and he’s waiting for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the force and aggression there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled joy for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; Opta state – perhaps generously – their probability of going down at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond honour. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly