Manchester City travel to Villa Park to face Aston Villa in what could be a pivotal clash for Pep Guardiola's struggling side. After a shocking run of defeats, City need a turnaround to keep their faint title hopes alive. But Villa’s home form will make this an uphill battle.
Aston Villa Recent Form
Aston Villa have been solid at home, going unbeaten in their last seven matches at Villa Park, with four wins and three draws. Despite their strong home record, their overall form has been inconsistent, losing four of their last seven league games.
Currently, they sit seventh, just three points shy of a potential Champions League spot.
Injury and Team News
Villa manager Unai Emery may see Leon Bailey and Tyrone Mings return to the squad, which would provide a significant boost. However, Jacob Ramsey remains sidelined until the New Year due to injury.
Last Aston Villa Lineup
Here is how Aston Villa lined up for their last match:
Manchester City Recent Form
Manchester City's form is nothing short of shocking for a team of their stature. They’ve lost five of their last seven Premier League matches, as many defeats as they suffered in the previous 67 games combined.
Their title defence is faltering, as they trail league leaders Liverpool by nine points, having played an additional game.
Injury and Team News
City continue to struggle with injuries. Key midfielder Rodri remains out with a long-term ACL injury. Oscar Bobb and Nathan Aké are also sidelined.
There is hope, however, that Manuel Akanji may return, while Rico Lewis is available after suspension.
Last Manchester City Lineup
Here is how Manchester City lined up for their last match:
Aston Villa vs Manchester City – Who is the Referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed on-field officials and VAR for the game:
Referee: Peter Bankes.
Assistants: Eddie Smart, Nick Greenhalgh.
Fourth official: Andy Madley.
VAR: Darren England.
Assistant VAR: Darren Cann.
Aston Villa Player to Watch
Ollie Watkins - The striker has been instrumental for Villa this season, leading the line with his clinical finishing. His ability to exploit City’s shaky defence could be decisive.
Manchester City Player to Watch
Josko Gvardiol - Despite City’s poor form, Gvardiol has contributed four goals this season, making him the most prolific defender in the Premier League. He’ll be crucial both defensively and offensively.
Prediction
Given City’s slump and Villa’s strong home form, this is set to be a closely contested match. The Opta supercomputer still favours City, giving them a 43.7% chance of winning.
However, Villa’s resilience at home could see them clinch a draw or even an upset victory. A 1-1 draw seems likely.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score - With Villa’s attacking form and City’s defensive vulnerabilities, goals are expected on both sides.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 Goals - City are still capable of scoring, but their leaky defence makes a high-scoring encounter plausible.
Tip 3
Ollie Watkins to Score Anytime - The Villa striker’s recent form and City’s defensive woes suggest he could find the net.
