Mon Dec 30 21:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Premier League Midseason Report: Liverpool Leads, City Struggles, and Tactical Surprises Abound

**London, England** – The 2024-25 Premier League season has reached its halfway point, revealing a compelling narrative filled with unexpected twists and tactical innovations. Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, sits comfortably at the top, while Manchester City’s struggles and the continued relegation battle of promoted teams dominate headlines. Experts from *The Athletic* offer their analysis of key trends and predictions for the season’s second half.

Liverpool’s success is attributed to Slot’s tactical tweaks, including a more controlled possession-based approach, strategic use of Mohamed Salah as a long-ball target (receiving 37% of completed long passes from the keeper), and impactful half-time adjustments. The team’s pressing remains elite, exemplified by their performances against Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Tottenham. Ryan Gravenberch’s adaptation to the midfield has also been a standout success.

Brentford, under Thomas Frank, continues to impress with their innovative approach. Their early goal-scoring strategy from kick-offs, as seen in victories against Manchester City, Tottenham, and West Ham, highlights their ability to dominate territory regardless of possession. The fluidity of their forward line, compensating for injuries and the departure of Ivan Toney, keeps opponents guessing.

Fulham, expertly managed by Marco Silva, punches above its weight. Despite key player departures, Silva has built a versatile squad capable of adapting its game plan, showcased by their Boxing Day win over Chelsea using a back-five formation. The team’s creativity and adaptability make them a tough opponent for even the top teams.

However, the season hasn’t been without its disappointments. Manchester City’s form is alarming. Injuries, particularly Rodri’s absence, have exposed defensive vulnerabilities, impacting pressing intensity and counter-pressing effectiveness. Their struggles raise questions about their Champions League qualification prospects. Crystal Palace, despite a strong finish to last season, has underperformed due to a less-than-successful summer transfer window and a significant drop in attacking third possessions.

West Ham, despite a promising summer, has defensive frailties. Although a recent unbeaten run shows potential, they need to improve defensively to challenge for a top-half finish. Tottenham’s inconsistency is also a concern, although Dejan Kulusevski’s impressive playmaking has provided a source of stability. Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, after a slow start, has found his scoring touch, displaying a blend of pace and clinical finishing.

Nottingham Forest’s defensive solidity, highlighted by their low goals conceded and expected goals against (xG), is a significant factor in their success. Arsenal’s proficiency from set pieces, particularly corners, stands out, in contrast to last season’s league-wide disparity in corner efficiency. Wolves’ overperformance in goals compared to their xG, thanks in part to Matheus Cunha’s goals, contrasts with their struggles in defense.

Manchester United’s progress under new manager Ruben Amorim shows promise, but needs improvements in defending set pieces. Meanwhile, predictions for the season’s remainder include Nottingham Forest potentially reaching the UEFA Conference League, and a trophy for either Manchester United or Tottenham, despite both potentially missing out on a top-seven finish. A fully fit Manchester City defense could also see Josko Gvardiol reach double figures in goals.

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