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1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United

Do the final scores be misleading? That is the question. Villa's run of victories continued against Manchester United, but so did the nagging doubts. Statistically, they were inferior by multiple metrics – less attempts (12-15), less possession (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). As usual, the victory was tightly contested. As usual, expected goals (xG) sided with the opposition: analysis indicates United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. Morgan Rogers could be considered their sole standout, but he’s delivering with festive regularity. Unai Emery is shrewd, seasoned, five years ahead of his counterpart. Should Rogers have benefited from Leny Yoro’s naivety, that was probably because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to begin on the flank, drive inside and exploit the space. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.

2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United

Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans rediscovered hope. They had won three league games on the bounce for the first time under their manager. 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, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – an untroubled victory). Their keeper provided stability, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and morale was high. But then United went back to black. Eight games, only two victories, six games without a win. At Villa Park they were the more dominant side without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, the Brazilian scored an excellent finish, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they conceded soft goals. After 13 months in England, the manager has yet to solve how to secure victories.

3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind

It was an evening fixture on the festive weekend but a glaring absence of finesse in the opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with offensive players absent, and their star man unable to spark 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 the whole campaign 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 title aspirations in the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is somewhat premature in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving quality substitutes on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.

4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions

On Christmas Day the City manager will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not overdone the festive fare. He explained the team wanted to take a day off after their 3-0 triumph but he declined because the performance was insufficient. So it's recovery, work for those who didn't feature, and after three days off, then brief training for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how the side can improve. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in the right areas, we could generate more chances.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is top.”

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 splashed the cash for him to do, to decide close contests with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the calmness with which he converted from an incisive ball boded superbly. So the image of him leaving immediately, due to a rash challenge, was a major worry for Arne Slot and frustrating for fans who would like to see such a gifted player perform at his best again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured 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 Champions League places, putting together a six-game unbeaten run featuring Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their prospects appear heavily dependent on those of their £125m investment.

6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw

Managers often moan about debatable rulings as a means of deflecting media attention from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season is a prime example. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that unfortunate habit following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet Howe was surely right to question a decision made by the on-field referee and VAR not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a 12-yard award could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the leeway informed by Gordon’s reputation for being expert at drawing contact and sometimes simulating? The take of a well-known analyst was notable. “Gordon’s waiting,” was the analysis. “He's prepared for the impact and he's ready. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the strength of the challenge there … that’s not shielding the ball.”

7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves

Brentford’s first away win this season spelled a welcome result for the Bees' boss. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews spoke kindly about Wolves, the club he started his career with. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; statistical models state – perhaps generously – their probability of going down at overwhelmingly high, leaving only pride at stake beyond professionalism. A veteran player brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly