Mason Mount fires in from the spot, he'll be looking to continue his top form against the champions elect on Saturday. (Photo credit: Premierleague.com) |
Here we go, a fixture of huge significance, a win for City and the champaign in the fridge can be blown open, but with both of them going head to head again few weeks from now in the All England Champions League final, this fixture means a lot to both sides and their respective fans.
Chelsea have nothing to prove, their position isn’t really threatened for top four, they need just three wins from the remaining five which is very possible, considering the fact that West Ham haven’t been firing of late and they even won a six pointer against David Moyes’ side.
Manchester City could have been crowned champions had Manchester United lost to Liverpool in a game that was postponed due to fans invasion of the Old Trafford pitch last Sunday, leaving everyone worried for safety.
The preview to the UEFA Champions League final offers both sides to size each other up, while fans would be concerned that both managers will be cautious not to give anything away, it’s equally important to note that the folks involved are core professionals.
Chelsea beat Manchester City in the semifinals of the FA Cup, ruining the beautiful quadruple scripts for Guardiola although the Spaniard fielded a much changed side but the Blues were by far the better side on the day from start to finish and for once, the Citizens couldn’t even near the opponents.
Football is weird and nothing is cast in stone, form is temporary and history flies out the window when real determination takes center stage; it’s imperative for both sides to get the momentum going so expect real fireworks.
Chelsea will go ahead of Leicester who dropped three points at home to Newcastle on Friday night, the Foxes are collapsing again and that’s a topic for another day.
The last five between the two has been pretty even, two wins apiece and a draw, there’s however a gulf in class in the league with City leading Chelsea by 19 points although Thomas Tuchel’s side has a game in hand but that will be against Arsenal.
How will they line up? Cesar Azpilicueta is expected to be given a rest and James will come in, the likes of Ferran Torres, Benjamin Mendy and Rodri will all get their chances to impress and give the manager a hell of selection headache ahead of the run in.
Who needs this more? The champions elect or the second best team in the land?
Verdict: Chelsea to win or draw
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