This weekend presents the most anticipated match to start the New Year with a bang with two English giants locking horns. Out of form, Chelsea will welcome Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on Sunday with kickoff at 7:30 pm.
Both sides have managed a total of 26 points heading into their first match of the New Year. However, the visitors have two games in hand and are currently in a better run of form than their opponents this weekend.
The Blues’ last match of 2020 saw the Blues held to a 1-1 draw by Aston Villa. The case is different for coronavirus hit Manchester City who’s the last match was on Boxing Day in their comfortable victory over Newcastle United.
Frank Lampard will hope the New Year brings new opportunities for the Blues looking to wipe a slate clean after a series of underwhelming performances over the festive period. The €200 million transfer window calls into question their current form.
Misfiring Timo Werner continues to wait for a goal after 11 Premier League matches without a goal or assist. The same case occurs when Kai Havertz finds his gaming time on the bench or as a substitute.
On the other hand, Pep Guardiola’s side could not face their last match of 2020 against Everton after a coronavirus outbreak. The week’s rest might be what the side needs to start with a win.
Chelsea vs. Manchester City Head to Head
Both sides have 33 games against each other, with Chelsea taking home 14 wins while Manchester City with 16 wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Chelsea 1-1 Aston Villa
Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea
Chelsea 3-0 West Ham
Wolves 2-1 Chelsea
Everton 1-0 Chelsea
Away
Man City 2-0 Newcastle
Arsenal 1-4 Manchester City
Southampton 0-1 Man City
Man City 1-1 West Brom
Man United 0-0 Man United
Chelsea Team News
Hakim Ziyech recently returned to field training but might not be risked too soon this weekend. Right-back Reece James is out for this clash after suffering a hamstring injury. Cesar Azpilicueta is in line to make his 400th appearance for the club.
Manchester City Team News
Man City are yet to release the three players who tested positive for coronavirus alongside Kylie Walker and Gabriel Jesus. Ederson confirmed in an Instagram post of self-isolating, meaning that Zac Steffen will start between the sticks.
Prediction and Odds
Even though City faces a shortage of players due to coronavirus, they are currently in the form to make it a win.
Manchester City Win
Correct Score: 0-1
Goals Under 1.5
