Premier League recap: 5 things we learned this weekend

Manchester City Need January Signings to win another Premier League

Since Rodri has been injured, his absence is evident in City’s performances. Rodri tore his ACL against Arsenal and has subsequently been ruled out for the season. Ever since this, Man City haven’t looked like the same inevitable title-winners.

Four consecutive losses are unheard of for Man City under Pep Guardiola but yet that’s where they find themselves.

Rodri often played as the anchor in midfield dictating the tempo of the game. He is an influential playmaker, breaking up play and scoring in big moments. But in their squad, he’s the only player who can do this to the level he does, all whilst adding physicality and leadership. Man City need reinforcements in January to cover for him and ideally someone who can partner him when he’s back.

Fulham’s Hale End Boys Run the Show

Fulham line-up with an attacking trio behind striker Raul Jiménez of Alex Iwobi, Emile Smith-Rowe and Reiss Nelson. What do they all have in common? They were all made at Arsenal’s Hale Ends academy. This trio’s chemistry off the pitch means they have a natural understanding on the pitch. Right now, they’re combining excellently to lead Fulham up the table and to secure consistent wins.

The victory against Crystal Palace was their fifth win of the season and they’re now up to seventh place. It’ll be interesting to see just how high Fulham can finish this season.

Liam Delap Should Be on Big Team’s Radars

Ipswich have struggled for goals this season but one player who hasn’t been is Liam Delap. Their shock win against Tottenham was Ipswich’s first of the season and Delap assisted the first goal and scored the second.

Delap was a key player for Derby County’s U18’s FA Youth League winning side back in 2018/19 and was then snapped up by Manchester City for €1.3m and went on to break the Premier League 2 goalscoring record, win another U18’s FA Youth League, followed by back-to-back Premier League 2 (U21’s) titles. City then loaned Delap to Stoke City, Preston North End and Hull City where he impressed but didn’t reach the same goalscoring heights as at youth level. Now in his debut Premier League season, Liam Delap has 6 goals and 1 assist in 11 games.

With so many top teams needing a new striker, it’s inevitable that 21-year-old Delap rises up any top team’s wish list.

Amad Diallo Deserves to Start

Despite limited minutes, Amad Diallo has always made an impact in games for Manchester United. During Ten Hag’s time as Man Utd manager, Diallo’s frustration at a lack of playtime became evident.

On the weekend, Diallo made his first start since the 21st of September against Crystal Palace. Amad starred for Man Utd, even getting an assist with a clever back heel to Bruno Fernandes, as they secured another win to move up the table. With the consistency he has shown, Diallo should definitely be a starter and in Amorim’s system. He’ll thrive in a new role.

Ødegaard & Merino Are the Answer to Arsenal’s Midfield Imbalance

It’s no secret that Arsenal have been struggling for results this season in their title challenge. A big part of their poor form recently has been their imbalance in midfield. However, the return of club captain Ødegaard brought more control to the midfield and summer signing Mikel Merino impacted the game when he came on as a sub too. These two both played together previously at Real Sociedad, so it was no surprise to see the duo thriving together.

Although Arsenal didn’t manage to win the game, when Merino came on, they created 2-3 clear cut chances and Merino even missed a chance himself. Prior to that, in the first half they struggled to create chances like these.

Going forward, the best midfield should include Merino at LCM, Ødegaard at RCM and one of Rice or Partey as the DM.