Manchester City's Current Form
Manchester City’s title hopes took a hit earlier in the season, but they remain focused on securing a Champions League spot. Despite a solid six-game unbeaten run in the Premier League, they were left frustrated by PSG midweek. Guardiola’s side has struggled in matches immediately following European fixtures, losing their last three Premier League games post-midweek.
The Citizens will be without key players Ruben Dias (adductor injury), Nathan Ake, Jeremy Doku, and Rodri (ACL). However, they’ve bolstered their squad with new signings, including Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Vitor Reis, who could make their debuts this weekend. Guardiola's likely starting lineup includes Jack Grealish, Kevin De Bruyne, and Erling Haaland, all crucial to City's attack.
Chelsea’s Resurgence
Chelsea, on the other hand, has been improving after a poor run of form around the New Year. The Blues are aiming to stay in the top four, with their most recent victory being a 3-1 win over Wolves. Despite some defensive lapses, they’ve been more potent in front of goal, with Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Cucurella, and Noni Madueke finding the net in recent games.
However, Chelsea has struggled against Manchester City in recent seasons, with their last win over City coming in the 2021 Champions League final. Their away form has been inconsistent, and they have failed to score in seven of their last 16 Premier League visits to the Etihad.
Team News
Manchester City:
- Ruben Dias (Adductor injury)
- Nathan Ake, Jeremy Doku (fitness concerns)
- Rodri (ACL injury)
- Kyle Walker (joining AC Milan)
- New signings: Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis
Chelsea:
- Romeo Lavia (muscle injury)
- Wesley Fofana (hamstring injury)
- Benoit Badiashile (thigh injury)
- Mykhaylo Mudryk (suspended)
- Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernandez (minor doubts)
Predicted Lineups
Manchester City:
- Ortega; Lewis, Stones, Akanji, Gvardiol; Kovacic, Bernardo; Foden, De Bruyne, Savinho; Haaland
Chelsea:
- Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Dewsbury-Hall, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson
Match Prediction
This encounter promises to be a thrilling one, with both teams boasting attacking talent but struggling defensively. Manchester City will be eager to regain their winning momentum, but Chelsea, despite their recent struggles against the Citizens, will look to frustrate them and steal a point.
Final Prediction: Manchester City 2-2 Chelsea
Expect an action-packed game with goals galore, as both sides aim to secure vital points in the race for a top-four finish.
