Manchester City welcome Chelsea to the Etihad this weekend in what promises to be a testing encounter for the Blues. Softfootball reported that Pep Guardiola’s side will aim to extend their dominance over the capital club, following their 11-match unbeaten streak in this fixture.
City’s recent form includes a six-match winning run in the league, halted only by a goalless draw at Sunderland, while Chelsea are reeling after Maresca’s departure as head coach on New Year’s Day.
The Blues have struggled in recent weeks, winning just two of their last nine matches across all competitions, with their precarious top-four hopes further complicated by Moises Caicedo’s suspension and multiple injuries.
Interim boss Calum McFarlane will likely stick with Cole Palmer in an advanced midfield role, supported by Enzo Fernandez and Reece James, but Chelsea’s attacking options are limited.
Team News
City, meanwhile, remain focused on the league and Champions League races, having shown resilience with key performances, including a tough win over Nottingham Forest and a 2-0 victory against Brentford to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
Erling Haaland looks set to lead the line once more, having scored in three of the past four games against Chelsea, and the Etihad provides the perfect stage for his finishing prowess. Manchester City recently recalled a video of their 10-goal masterclass against Chelsea at the Etihad on their X handle, highlighting just how devastating they can be on home turf.
watch video below:
Possible Lineups
Manchester City: Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Silva, Rodri, Reijnders; Cherki, Foden; Haaland
Chelsea: Sanchez; Acheampong, Fofana, Chalobah, Gusto; James, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Pedro
Softfootball Prediction
Manchester City 3-1 Chelsea. With City’s attacking firepower and Chelsea’s current instability, the hosts are expected to dominate and secure a comfortable victory, extending their unbeaten run against the London side to 12 matches.
