The “Etihad” giants did not claim any major titles last season and only secured third place in the Premier League. The new campaign did not start particularly well, and setbacks continued to occur. Nevertheless, by the end of 2024, they managed to secure an early spot in the Champions League playoffs, reach the League Cup semifinals, and become Arsenal’s main competitor in the Premier League. However, they finished in a goalless draw against Sunderland.
The London club finished last Premier League season right behind City, in fourth place. This alone justified the faith in Maresca, but he also brought new titles to the project: consecutively winning the Conference League and the Club World Cup. Now, his team has also reached the League Cup semifinals and will proceed to the Champions League playoffs. However, as winter approaches, the number of slip-ups in the Premier League has increased. After losing to Aston Villa and drawing with Bournemouth, the management shocked everyone by sacking Enzo!
With the help of his teammates, Haaland averages 2.26 goals scored per game, but they also concede a fair amount, at 0.89 per match. Their rival, with 1.68 goals scored, concedes 1.11 on average.
Manchester City won eight straight games before the previous round
42% of Manchester City matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 3.16
Chelsea have not won in their last three matches
58% of Chelsea matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 2.79.
Manchester City (possible lineup): Donnarumma – O’Riley, Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, Mateus Nunes – Foden, Cherki, Bernardo Silva, Nico Gonzalez, Reijnders – Haaland.
Chelsea (possible lineup): Sanchez – Cucurella, Chalobah, Fofana, Gusto – James, Caicedo, Garnacho, Palmer, Neto – Joao Pedro.
Since the 2021 Champions League final, Chelsea have not won any official games. They have now lost three times in a row to Guardiola’s side.
