Man City vs Chelsea Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips
Man City vs Chelsea Match Preview
Heavyweights Manchester City and Chelsea will lock horns at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday, February 17.
The hosts enter this game on the back of a great run of form. They are currently on a 10-game winning run across competitions and look unstoppable. During this phase, City have scored a staggering 29 goals, conceding just five times. They have kept clean sheets in six of those games, showing how strong they are defensively as well. Their last outing was a comfortable win over Copenhagen in the Champions League as the Cityzens will look to extend their winning streak.
The Blues, on the other hand, have had a rollercoaster of a few weeks of late. They have won six of their last 10 games, losing three and drawing one. However, they conceded an alarming nine goals in those three defeats, scoring just thrice in reply. Their last game was a spirited comeback to defeat Crystal Palace 3-1 at Selhurst Park in the league. Mauricio Pochettino and his men will be hoping for a repeat of that performance as they continue to look to string positive results together.
On that note, let’s take a look at the team news from both camps.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Man City
Having struggled with injuries to multiple key players for multiple months, Pep Guardiola finally has a full squad available at his disposal. This is also usually the time when his teams start putting together clusters of wins en route to winning titles.
Guardiola has stuck with a fixed XI in his last few games, slowly integrating the returning Kevin De Bruyne with the starting side. The Belgian started in the win against Copenhagen and will retain his spot. Meanwhile, Jack Grealish went off with a knock and could lose his place to Julian Alvarez.
Predicted XI: Ederson (GK), Kyle Walker (C), John Stones, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, Julian Alvarez, Erling Haaland.
Chelsea
The Blues remain without long-term absentees Wesley Fofana (ACL), Reece James (hamstring) and Marc Cucurella (ankle), with their return likely set for next season. Meanwhile, Benoit Badiashile (groin) could face a late fitness test ahead of their trip.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino, too, has stuck with a fixed XI in recent weeks. He has made the odd change to the front-line but has likely found his strongest lineup and will stick to it.
Predicted XI: Dorde Petrovic (GK), Malo Gusto, Axel Disasi, Thiago Silva, Ben Chilwell (C), Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Noni Madueke, Conor Gallagher, Christopher Nkunku, Cole Palmer.
ALSO READ: Conor Gallagher reacts after covering unprecedented distance during Crystal Palace’s win.
Head-to-Head
Last 5 Games Head-to-Head
- Chelsea 4-4 Man City (11/23)
- Man City 1-0 Chelsea (05/23)
- Man City 4-0 Chelsea (01/23)
- Chelsea 0-1 Man City (01/23)
- Man City 2-0 Chelsea (11/22)
As you can see, Manchester City have absolutely dominated this fixture, barring a freak result in their last meeting. The game ended in a 4-4 draw after exciting end-to-end play by both teams for 90 minutes.
However, City comfortably lead the head-to-head win four wins in their last five meetings. They have scored eight goals without reply during this phase and will look to maintain their chokehold over Chelsea.
Prediction
The upcoming game seems like it will end no different, with the hosts winning straightforwardly and will likely keep a clean sheet as well.
Prediction: Man City 2-0 Chelsea.
Betting Tips and Odds
Betting Tips
- Both Teams to Score – No: 2.08
- Correct Score – 2-0: 7.80
- Anytime Goal Scorer: Phil Foden.
Match Odds
- Man City Win: 1.34
- Draw: 5.50
- Chelsea Win: 9.00
Man City vs Chelsea Timings & Telecast
- Date & Time: Saturday, February 17th at 5:30 PM (GMT).
- India: Star Sports Network, Hotstar app & website.
- UK: Sky Sports.
- US: Peacock Premium.
ALSO READ: Chelsea Faces Defensive Setback Ahead of Manchester City Showdown.