Aston Villa continued their winning streak with a slender victory over Manchester United, despite being outplayed in several key metrics. Villa had fewer shots (12-15), less possession (43-57%), and fewer big chances (2-3). However, manager Unai Emery's tactical acumen and Morgan Rogers' form proved decisive. Rogers exploited Leny Yoro's inexperience at right-back, cutting inside to torment the defence. Emery's shrewd management and the team's solid teamwork continue to compensate for a lack of dominance in games.
Manchester United's resurgence under Ruben Amorim has stalled after a promising October. Following a 4-2 win over Brighton and victories against Liverpool and Sunderland, United have won only two of their last eight league games. At Villa Park, they were the better side but failed to convert chances, with Matheus Cunha scoring but also missing a sitter. Injuries to Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes compounded their struggles, and Amorim has yet to find a consistent winning formula after 13 months in charge.
Everton's lack of a reliable striker was evident in a goalless draw at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Without Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye, and with Jack Grealish unable to inspire, David Moyes's side struggled to create clear chances. Despite sitting fifth two weeks ago, their reliance on grinding out results is a concern. Arsenal, meanwhile, returned to the top of the table with a narrow win, but Mikel Arteta acknowledged the need for greater attacking fluency. With players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard available, Arteta hopes hard work will lead to bigger winning margins.
Pep Guardiola is keeping a close eye on his Manchester City players' fitness over the festive period. After a win against West Ham, Guardiola cancelled a planned day off, citing insufficient performance. He will monitor players' weight on Christmas Day, warning that any player returning overweight will not travel to face Nottingham Forest. Guardiola also emphasised his ability to read games and find spaces, while looking forward to a holiday in Barcelona.
Alexander Isak's goal for Liverpool against Tottenham was a moment of brilliance, as he clipped in from Florian Wirtz's pass with confidence. However, he was forced off after a rash challenge by Micky van de Ven, and Liverpool fear he has sustained a fractured leg. The injury could sideline the striker for a lengthy period, a blow for both Liverpool and neutrals hoping to see his talent flourish.
