Much has changed since Manchester City last faced Chelsea in August. When they play on Saturday at the Etihad Stadium, the game could play a key role in defining the trajectory for the two clubs.
City have dominated the Premier League in recent years, winning six of the last seven titles. However, this season has been a difficult one for Pep Guardiola’s side and they find themselves fifth in the Premier League. There has been an upturn in form recently but they have to secure their UEFA Champions League place rather than worry about winning the Premier League title.
When City beat Chelsea 2-0 in August, it looked highly unlikely that the two teams would be competing for Premier League positions. However, Chelsea – while still a work in progress – have improved plenty since then, largely thanks to former City winger Cole Palmer. The Blues are currently fourth in the Premier League and on course for a first UEFA Champions League appearance in three seasons.
What’s At Stake In the UEFA Champions League race?
For City, this season could represent the fall of a dynasty if they are not careful. Potential punishment over allegedly breaking the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations could await. With this factored in, they cannot afford to make it even more difficult to clinch fourth place than it already could become with a points deduction.
City have finished in the top four in the Premier League every season since 2010/11 and once momentum like that is lost, it can be difficult to get back. It is unclear what would happen to Pep Guardiola’s job if he were to become the first City boss since Roberto Mancini to miss out on UEFA Champions League qualification. Failure could have serious consequences for City’s dynasty.
For Chelsea, after the money they have invested, failure to reach the top four could have serious financial ramifications. In addition, star players could leave the club in search of UEFA Champions League soccer.
Manchester City vs. Chelsea: What Are The Odds?
With 22 games played in the Premier League season, fourth-placed Chelsea (3.70) currently have 40 points and fifth-placed City (1.88) have 38.
The odds are in City’s favour as a result of them being on home soil at the Etihad Stadium. Having won 2-0 at Stamford Bridge, they have a superb record against Chelsea in recent years. Since Chelsea beat City 1-0 in the 2020/21 UEFA Champions League final, the teams have met 10 times in competitive fixtures with City winning eight games and two ending in draws.
However, City will be well aware that the winds of change are blowing at Chelsea. A draw (4.10) is therefore an option worth considering on Easybet.
