As the Premier League heads down the stretch, teams are intensifying their efforts. Even more importantly, they are committed to increasing their likelihood of success. Matchday 24 barely broke even at -2 value, and Matchday 25 was a straight zero. In comparison, Matchday 26 was again -2 in value, with Matchday 27 close behind at -0.25 in value. This trend positively reinforces the idea that teams are struggling with form and consistency as they make their way through important fixtures.
Luckily, Matchday 29 is a sign of better things to come, with a +1.3 value, showing that more entertaining matches are on the way. Matchday 30 generated a dismal return of -1. At the same time, Matchday 31 and Matchday 32 have both been neutral – bouncing back to 0 values. These volatile matchday figures underscore the competitiveness of this league as clubs battle in a winner-take-all race to settle their fates.
Tactical Adjustments in Manchester City
In light of recent performances, Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola has opted for a more pragmatic approach to save the season. This tactical adjustment is clearly designed to find some stability following a rocky start to the season with patchy and inconsistent performances. Guardiola’s decision reflects his holistic approach to offensive creativity and defensive solidity. This last strategy is particularly important as City looks to retake their place atop the league.
The shift in strategic approach has undoubtedly led to a rollercoaster of reactions from the team to the supporters. Although many applaud Guardiola’s systematic organization of the team, critics bemoan the loss of the team’s cavalier spirit going forward. Most importantly, economically, Manchester City needs to change with the times. It’s necessary for them to continue to be competitive as the season’s championship races heat up.
Leicester City’s Standout Player
Leicester City has seen impressive individual performances this season, with Mavididi emerging as the team’s best player and most creative outlet. His creativity, vision and ability to impact games has been the key ingredient for a surging Foxes’ side. On the pitch, Mavididi is a bright spark and his dazzling feet have flummoxed defenders. His contributions will be key as Leicester faces a difficult second-straight Premier League relegation dogfight.
Despite facing ups and downs, Mavididi’s consistent performances have kept Leicester’s hopes alive for better results in upcoming matches. At a time when other players can’t seem to find their form, his creativity gives the team a sudden burst of life on the pitch.
Liverpool’s New Sensibility
Now living under new management, Liverpool have morphed into a more pragmatic footballing side. As a result, the tactical adjustments the coaching staff have made keep improving these players’ performances. This evolution is a positive illustration of a more pragmatic and less showy style of play that puts efficiency and effectiveness ahead of pizzazz and flair.
The next premier league fixture against Tottenham Hotspur creates a pretty fascinating opportunity for Liverpool. Sky Bet are 10/11 about there being under 2.5 goals. That means that when they think it’ll be close, it’ll be close not high scoring. This stat really highlights Liverpool’s increased emphasis on improving their defensive foundations and how they are still looking to create chances through dispossessing opponents.
Struggles of Key Players
As some players begin to light it up, others have yet to get adjusted into the new season. Palmer’s goal drought is at an incredible 1200 minutes of game play. This prolonged dry spell leads to troubling questions regarding his health and effect on Manchester City’s attack. His failure to find the net might be even more concerning given City’s fortunes if they can’t start to get back on track soon.
Likewise, Jackson himself has not found the back of the net in the Premier League since December 1, adding to the woes of his struggling side. His extended goal drought underscores an immediate requirement for him to recapture his finishing finesse. If he wants to have a positive impact in the home straight of the season, he needs to turn it around.
Leave a Reply