Two sides that endured contrasting fortunes in the EFL Cup quarter-finals showdown will soon turn their attention to the Premier League. Manchester City will face off against Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium on Boxing Day. The match schedules for Saturday with kickoff at 11 pm.
City secured a spot in the last four of the EFL Cup with a dominant 4-1 win against Arsenal, whereas Newcastle bowed out of the competition as they lost 1-0 to Championship side Brentford.
Finding the back of the net has been a significant issue for City this season. However, Pep Guardiola will be hoping their side will rediscover their form after putting four goals past Arsenal in their midweek fixture.
The Citizens are currently on fourth consecutive triumph in the EFL Cup. However, their current attention turns to the Premier League as they look to take charge of their winning ways ahead of the New Year.
City was made to work for their victory against Southampton last weekend with Raheem Sterling netting the match’s only goal. The win marked their third one in their last seven outings.
Steve Bruce came under heavy criticism following their under the par performance against Championship side Brentford. A Josh DaSilva’s second-half winner edged out the Magpies from the competition. Newcastle have only tested one defeat in their last four outings.
Manchester City vs Newcastle United Head to Head
Both sides have 28 games against each other with Man City taking home 22 wins while Newcastle with two wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Arsenal 1-4 Man City
Southampton 0-1 Man City
City 1-1 West Brom
Man United 0-0 Man City
Man City 3-0 Marseille
Away
Brentford 0-1 Newcastle
Newcastle 1-1 Fulham
Leeds 5-2 Newcastle
Newcastle 2-1 West Brom
Crystal Palace 0-2 Newcastle
Manchester City Team News
Apart from Eric Garcia, who remains injured until the New Year, Guardiola is blessed with a full fit squad for the showdown. We expect several changes to the starting XI with Ederson coming in goal for Zack Steffen. John Stones, Kylie Walker and Benjamin Mendy should return to the starting XI.
Newcastle United Team News
Steve Bruce recently announced that Allan Saint-Maximim and Jamaal Lascelles are suffering from coronavirus effects and remain in recovery. Fabian Schar and Javi Manquillo are believed to test positive for coronavirus.
Prediction and Odds
City boast of a strong head to head record against the Magpies, reeling from a win midweek.
Manchester City Win
Goals Under 2.5
Away: No Score
