Premier League Weekend: Key Talking Points and Team Updates
Aston Villa secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester United, with Morgan Rogers shining as he exploited Arsenal's Leny Yoro at right-back by starting wide and causing problems. Manchester United, under Ruben Amorim, continue their poor form with only two wins in eight games and six losses. Despite Cunha scoring, he missed a crucial sitter, and injuries to Mainoo and Fernandes have affected the team's performance.
Arsenal moved back to the top of the league after beating Everton; however, concerns remain over their lack of a clinical striker and continued reliance on grinding out wins. Manchester City, following a 3-0 win over West Ham, have introduced post-Christmas weigh-ins to curb overindulgence, and Pep Guardiola outlined recovery plans and tactical adjustments ahead of their upcoming match against Nottingham Forest.
Liverpool's Alexander Isak scored against Tottenham, marking a potential breakthrough before suffering a suspected fractured leg, which may rule him out long-term and impact Liverpool's push for a top-four finish. Newcastle drew 2-2 with Chelsea in a match featuring a controversial non-penalty for Trevoh Chalobah's challenge on Anthony Gordon; Newcastle have notably dropped 13 points from winning positions this season.
Wolves lost 0-2 to Brentford, intensifying relegation fears with Opta placing their odds at 99.17%. Jørgen Strand Larsen missed a late penalty, allowing Brentford to secure the win. Leeds United defeated Crystal Palace 4-1, with 16-year-old Joél Drakes-Thomas becoming Palace's youngest ever Premier League player; Leeds manager Glasner cited squad depth issues and a need for reinforcements in the January transfer window.
Brighton & Hove Albion and Sunderland played to a 0-0 draw, continuing a goal drought phase; 18-year-old Kostoulas is expected to possibly make his first Premier League start as Mitoma returns to fitness, while Welbeck remains out.
