1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes tell the whole story? One must ask. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, but so did the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by several measures – fewer shots (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was tightly contested. In keeping with form, statistical models painted a different picture: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by cohesive units, shrewd management and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward may be their sole standout, but he’s delivering as a timely gift. The Villa manager is wily, experienced, five years ahead of Ruben Amorim. 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, cut in and cause him problems. Talent and management, working together.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
When Manchester United beat Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans rediscovered hope. They secured three league games consecutively for the maiden instance under Ruben Amorim. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (one of their many bogey teams), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (in front of their own fans, against a promoted club, but still – an untroubled victory). Senne Lammens looked solid, their forward line sparked and morale was high. But then United went back to black. Over the next eight fixtures, two wins, six games without a win. In the recent fixture they were the better team without ever looking like winning. Yes, the Brazilian scored a good goal, but he also blazed over a simple chance. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. After 13 months in England, the manager has yet to solve how to secure victories.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an 8pm kick-off on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the final third made for a sobering evening. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and the experienced winger struggling to lift an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played all term without a proven goalscorer. For Arsenal and their manager, while he enjoyed a merited victory and ascending to the summit of the table, the problem should be equally concerning given their designs on the Premier League. He stated 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 world-class talents, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
On Christmas Day Pep Guardiola will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He revealed his squad requested to take a day off after their recent victory but the request was denied because their display lacked quality. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then brief training for the Nottingham Forest game. He explained how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in the right areas, we could be more potent.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is superb.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a glorious few seconds, like an arrival. This was exactly what Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to decide close contests with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the assurance with which he finished from a neat pass looked extremely positive. So the sight of him departing immediately, due to a rash challenge, was a huge concern for the Dutch coach and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see a top-class forward perform at his best 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 Slot’s team having quietly moved into the top four, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear tied up with those of their record signing.
6. A Contentious Call Saves Chelsea
Managers often lament contentious refereeing decisions as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season seems a case in point. Their manager 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 ended up drawing. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely correct to highlight 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 spot-kick could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by past incidents for being skilled at drawing contact and sometimes exaggerating? Comments by a former England striker was revealing. “He sees the challenge coming,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he braces for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the strength of the challenge there … it's more than just defending.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled relief for Keith Andrews. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; statistical models state – perhaps generously – their probability of going down at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond pride. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
