Premier League Matchday 16: Has Manchester United Found Their Own Bellingham? Arsenal's Defensive Woes Due to One Absence

Premier League Matchday 16 continues on December 9th, with Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay showcasing his exceptional form this season. His six goals make him the top scorer for United, drawing comparisons among fans to a mini-version of Real Madrid’s David Beckham. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s solid defense crumbled last match due to the absence of right-back Takehiro Tomiyasu. Goalkeeper Raya's error reflected the team's panic, and as they face a tough away game, the question arises: Can Tomiyasu make a timely return?

Manchester United vs. Bournemouth - A Mini Bellingham Emerges

If this were the early post-Ferguson years, Erik ten Hag might not have lasted long as Manchester United's manager. However, with the passage of time and frequent managerial changes, the board has realized that sacking Ten Hag might not lead to a better replacement. They are now hoping Ten Hag can rescue himself, and he seems to be doing just that. Despite United’s historical struggles against Chelsea, even before Abramovich’s era, Ten Hag has managed consecutive wins against them, alleviating much of the crisis.

After defeating Chelsea, United fans found themselves only three points behind Manchester City, allowing Ten Hag to enjoy a peaceful Christmas. However, before the holidays, United still face a significant Champions League challenge. While Bayern Munich’s strength stands out, neither Galatasaray nor Copenhagen are from top leagues, giving United little excuse for not advancing from the group stage. The reality, though, is grim. United must beat Bayern and hope for a draw between the other two teams to advance, a low-probability scenario. If United "qualify" for the Europa League knockout stage, will Ten Hag keep his job?

Bournemouth, following a 1-6 defeat to Manchester City, seemed to have a wake-up call, achieving three wins and one draw in their last four matches, and escaping the relegation zone. In their last away game against Crystal Palace, Bournemouth played efficiently, creating few but very threatening chances, ultimately winning 2-0. After the heavy loss to City, manager Andoni Iraola realized that the five-man defense wasn’t effective, as it left the midfield too exposed. He decisively reverted to a four-man defense with two holding midfielders, yielding positive results, including two clean sheets in the last four games.

This season, McTominay's six goals are more than United's four forwards combined, resembling a mini-Bellingham. United will rely on his offensive prowess in this match. Given the importance of the Champions League, United may rotate their squad, but Bournemouth's excellent current form means that a rotated United might struggle. A 1-1 draw seems likely.

Aston Villa vs. Arsenal - Ben White: A Defensive Liability?

Before their midweek clash with Manchester City, Unai Emery had gone 13 matches without a win against Pep Guardiola’s teams. This embarrassing streak finally ended last round. World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez twice denied Erling Haaland early on, after which Villa dominated, creating 22 chances to City’s 11 and even having more possession. Defeating City isn’t exactly a miracle, but Villa’s comprehensive superiority was astonishing. Following their victory over City, Villa has achieved a 13-match home winning streak in the Premier League. If they beat Arsenal this round, they’ll set a new club record. However, league leaders and Emery’s former team Arsenal won’t concede easily.

Last round, Arsenal fans expected an easy win against newly promoted Luton Town, but were surprised by the home team’s resilience. Both teams took turns leading, and only in the sixth minute of stoppage time did Declan Rice secure a last-gasp victory for Arsenal. Right-back Tomiyasu, who had started seven consecutive matches in the Premier League and Champions League, missed the game due to a meniscus injury. His replacement, Ben White, while undeniably strong offensively, contributed an assist last match. However, the team’s balance between attack and defense is evidently more critical than a defender’s attacking ability. Tomiyasu is likely to miss this game too, leaving Arsenal fans hoping for the best.

Before this round, Arsenal had won four consecutive matches against Villa. Before that, Villa had won three in a row against Arsenal, highlighting the unpredictable nature of their encounters. While Villa is in great form, Arsenal possesses more spirit and strength. They are expected to edge out Villa with a 2-1 away victory.

Context and Analysis

Manchester United’s season has been a rollercoaster, with manager Erik ten Hag under constant scrutiny. Despite significant pressure, his ability to secure back-to-back victories against Chelsea has bought him some time and eased immediate concerns. However, the looming Champions League fixtures present a daunting task. Historically, United has struggled to maintain domestic form while juggling European commitments. McTominay’s emergence as a key offensive player, outscoring the combined efforts of United’s forwards, provides a glimmer of hope. His role will be crucial in both the Premier League and potentially decisive European matches.

Bournemouth’s recent resurgence, following a tactical shift by manager Iraola, has seen them climb out of the relegation zone. The switch to a four-man defense and two holding midfielders has stabilized the team, resulting in two clean sheets in their last four games. This newfound solidity will be tested against a United side potentially focused on upcoming European commitments.

For Arsenal, defensive stability has been a cornerstone of their campaign. The absence of Tomiyasu exposed vulnerabilities that Crystal Palace nearly exploited. Ben White, while effective going forward, has yet to fully convince as a defensive anchor. With Tomiyasu likely sidelined again, Arsenal’s ability to maintain their defensive solidity against a high-flying Villa side will be critical.

Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, has transformed Villa Park into a fortress, achieving a 13-match home winning streak. Their comprehensive victory over Manchester City showcased their potential to compete with the league’s best. Facing league leaders Arsenal presents another opportunity to prove their credentials. However, Arsenal’s resilience and ability to secure late victories, exemplified by Declan Rice’s stoppage-time winner against Luton, highlight their championship mettle.

In conclusion, Premier League Matchday 16 offers intriguing narratives. Manchester United’s reliance on McTominay and their balancing act between domestic and European competitions, Bournemouth’s tactical resurgence, and Arsenal’s defensive challenges against a resurgent Villa side, all promise exciting football and potential shifts in the league standings.