Sky Sports football writers have highlighted Aston Villa's difficulties in attack following Saturday's Premier League fixtures. In a round-up published on 12 September, the outlet pointed to major concerns about Villa's ability to create and convert chances in the final third, though no specific match data was offered to support the assessment.
The same analysis turned its attention to Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea were held to a 2-2 draw by newly promoted Hull City. According to the report, Xabi Alonso's side have now conceded in 20 consecutive Premier League matches, a run that predates his tenure. Hull's expected goals figure of 1.32 was described as a fair reflection of their threat, with the visitors frequently presented with opportunities rather than carving open the home defence.
Alonso has been urged to apply lessons learned under Jose Mourinho to shore up a backline that continues to leak goals. The piece noted that even the presence of Emiliano Martinez — described as a World Cup winner and multiple Yashin Trophy recipient — cannot compensate if those ahead of him fail to perform the basics.
Elsewhere, Liverpool were scrutinised after failing to break down Fulham in a goalless draw at Anfield. The result followed Andoni Iraola securing his first Champions League victory as a coach against Atletico Madrid earlier in the week, raising questions about how his squad will handle the demands of an expanded schedule compared to his previous roles at Rayo Vallecano and Bournemouth.
For Villa, the brief but pointed criticism from Sky Sports underscores a growing conversation around their offensive output early in the campaign. With the summer transfer window having closed on 1 September, any adjustments must come from within the current squad until business can resume when the market reopens on 1 January 2027.
