The Premier League continues this weekend as reigning champions Manchester City travel to Portman Road to face a struggling Ipswich Town side. Pep Guardiola’s men aim to bounce back from their midweek disappointment, while the Tractor Boys hope to avoid sliding deeper into the relegation zone.
Manchester City: Seeking Redemption
Manchester City entered their clash with Brentford on a high note after securing a record-breaking nine-and-a-half-year contract for Erling Haaland. However, their 2-2 draw exposed defensive vulnerabilities, leaving them three points off Newcastle United in the race for a top-four spot.
City's five-match unbeaten streak is an improvement over their rocky autumn. Guardiola’s side now seeks consistency, especially with a critical Champions League fixture against PSG looming midweek. A win against Ipswich would restore confidence and keep their top-four hopes alive.
Ipswich Town: Fighting for Survival
Ipswich's 2-0 loss to Brighton highlighted their defensive struggles, with Kieran McKenna's men unable to replicate their heroic victory over Chelsea earlier this month. Now sitting in the relegation zone, the Tractor Boys are desperate for points to keep their Premier League survival hopes alive.
Team News
City's lineup may see rotations, with John Stones unlikely to start after recovering from a foot injury. Injuries to Rodri, Oscar Bobb, and Ruben Dias remain concerns, while Matheus Nunes could again feature at right-back.
Ipswich, meanwhile, will miss Kalvin Phillips, ineligible to face his parent club, while Conor Chaplin and Chiedozie Ogbene remain sidelined. New signing Jaden Philogene could debut, adding fresh attacking options.
Predicted Lineups
Ipswich Town:
Walton; Woolfenden, Godfrey, Greaves; O'Shea, Cajuste, Morsy, Davis; Hutchinson, Delap, Philogene
Manchester City:
Ortega; Lewis, Akanji, Ake, Gvardiol; Kovacic, Gundogan; Foden, De Bruyne, Doku; Haaland
Match Prediction
While Ipswich might revert to a defensive back five to stifle City’s attack, Guardiola's men should eventually break through. Expect Haaland to capitalize on defensive lapses as City cruise to a 2-0 win.
