Aston Villa are back in the Champions League places. After a rocky start, Unai Emery's side have put together a superb run, placing them fourth after 12 games.
A difficult summer, hampered by financial constraints, led to Monchi's departure as sporting director.
The former Sevilla man left after matchday four, with Aston Villa languishing in 19th place, without a win. Now, they sit fourth with 21 points, just two points off second place.
In the eight games since Monchi's exit, only Arsenal have defeated Aston Villa. While Arteta's team have taken 20 points from a possible 24, Emery's men have secured 19.
Liverpool's form has nosedived. After winning all of their opening four games, they find themselves second-bottom in the table covering matchdays 5 to 12.