The Premier League Boxing Day fixture features Manchester City hosting Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Thursday, 26th December 2024, at 1:30pm. This clash between two sides at opposite ends of the table should be intriguing for multiple reasons.
Manchester City's Recent Form
Manchester City have had an uncharacteristically inconsistent season, sitting 7th in the Premier League table with 27 points from 17 matches. Their form in recent games is worrying, with only one win in their last five matches across all competitions and a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa at the weekend.
Despite this, their home form remains strong, having secured 5 wins and 1 draw at the Etihad Stadium this season.
Everton's Recent Form
Everton are battling near the bottom of the table in 16th place, accumulating just 16 points from 16 matches. Their away form is troubling, with only one victory on the road this season.
However, recent matches have shown that they can crawl out results, including a commendable 0-0 draw away at Arsenal.
Injury and Team News
Manchester City
Key players Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland are likely to lead the attack, but City are dealing with defensive vulnerabilities due to injuries to Ruben Dias and John Stones.
Everton
Sean Dyche’s side could miss their main attacking threat Dominic Calvert-Lewin, while midfield remains stretched due to fitness concerns for Amadou Onana.
Last Lineups
Manchester City
Everton
Who is the Referee and VAR?
Referee: Simon Hooper.
Assistants: Adrian Holmes, Simon Long.
Fourth official: David Webb.
VAR: Alex Chilowicz.
Assistant VAR: Dan Cook.
Players to Watch
Manchester City
Erling Haaland: The Norwegian striker’s scoring quality will be crucial as City aim to bounce back from recent setbacks, as long as his teammates are able to get him the service he needs.
Everton
Jordan Pickford: The England goalkeeper will be key in denying City’s attacking threats and keeping Everton in the game.
Prediction
Given their home advantage and superior quality, Manchester City are likely to edge this encounter. A 2-0 victory for the Citizens seems a reasonable forecast, particularly given Everton’s struggles in scoring away goals.
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Manchester City to Win
The odds heavily favour City (1.33), reflecting their dominance in this fixture.
Tip 2: Both Teams Not to Score
With Everton struggling to score away and City’s defensive strengths at home, this bet offers solid value (odds: 1.86).
Tip 3: Handicap Betting
A -1.5 handicap on City could yield higher returns, especially given their need to make a statement.
