Manchester United’s struggles this season are reflected in the Premier League table based on expected points. Calculated using xG data from Stats Perform, the table places United in 15th position, dangerously close to the relegation zone. This is not surprising considering the team’s poor defensive performances and lack of creativity in recent games. The statistics will surely increase the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag, who has already faced criticism and player unrest. Rumors suggest that INEOS, the club’s owners, are considering potential replacements, with Graham Potter being mentioned as a possible candidate.
Meanwhile, Chelsea fans can take solace in the projected points table, which shows the team performing better than their current position. If Chelsea had finished according to their expected goals, they would be in the top four. Their recent 6-0 victory over Everton may be an indication of what the team is capable of if they start converting their chances. On the other hand, Arsenal surprisingly leads the title race in the expected points table, ahead of Manchester City. This could be attributed to their failure to sign a striker in the January transfer window.
Newcastle United, after their impressive 4-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur, would be in contention for a potential fifth-place finish in the Champions League if they had converted their chances throughout the season. Brentford’s struggles can be attributed to their reliance on Ivan Toney, as they have underperformed compared to their expected points. It’s worth noting that the table does not account for points deductions for Everton and Nottingham Forest, who would still be safe from relegation if their expected goals had been converted.
In light of these statistics, Tommy Tuchel’s performance as Chelsea manager stands out. He successfully stopped a strong Arsenal team and showcased his coaching credentials. Tuchel’s ability to turn around a struggling Chelsea side and win the Champions League without any new signings is impressive. With rumors of budget cuts at Manchester United, Tuchel’s ability to achieve success with limited resources would make him an attractive option for the club.
Overall, the expected points table highlights the disparity between a team’s performance and their actual position in the league. It provides valuable insights into individual team performances and offers a different perspective on the season.