By observing that Puel and Koeman are equally matched at this stage in both seasons, the "in brigade" aren't prematurely deducing that it makes Puel a successful manager. Rather, they are simply observating the relative parity in terms of results and league position. What the "in brigade" are saying is that we should give Puel the same chance that Koeman had to turn things around and then judge him. #comparinglikewithlike
The "out brigade" may well turn out to be right. That remains to be seen. Personally, I'm keeping an open and pragmatic mind on the situation.