Chelsea v Man City Match Preview
Champions Manchester City head to Stamford Bridge on Sunday as they begin the defence of their Premier League title. The Citizens start the campaign under plenty of scrutiny, given how Arsenal have closed in on them over the last couple of seasons. City have lost Julian Alvarez this summer and an injury to Oscar Bobb leaves them a little short-handed. Could that impact them in a visit to a Chelsea side that continues to lack a coherent direction?
Chelsea v Man City: Nifty Nkunku
For all the chaos that has engulfed Chelsea, it has gone a little unnoticed just how strong their starting 11 is when fit. Christopher Nkunku leads the way in that regard, as he hopes for a fresh start after an injury-hit first campaign at the Bridge.
Nkunku had a decent return when he was able to get on the pitch for the Blues. Like last year, he’s also warmed up with a strong pre-season. Unlike last year, Enzo Maresca seems to prefer him centrally, as opposed to his spot on the left flank under Mauricio Pochettino.
The former Bundesliga Golden Boot winner is expected to feature either as the striker through the middle or as an advanced midfielder, likely running past a false nine. Either way, Nkunku looks set to be Chelsea’s most direct attacking threat, with Cole Palmer being shifted wide.
Not all is right with City heading into this game and despite Chelsea’s issues the Blues should get chances. Given Nkunku’s pedigree, he’s unlikely to feature at the 3.12 mark too often if he can stay fit, so back him for a goal on Sunday.
Chelsea v Man City: City Concerns
City fielded a weakened side in their Community Shield victory last weekend and it’s been confirmed that Rodri will miss their opening league game. That’s a huge loss, while Pep Guardiola is likely to have to rush back the likes of Phil Foden following Bobb’s injury and Alvarez’s departure.
City do tend to have an issue in big games, having won just two of their 10 meetings with the top six last season. Those victories came late, beating Aston Villa and Spurs after they had run out of steam.
City drew home and away to Chelsea last term and after their clash with Man United finished 1-1 on Saturday, the draw holds a lot of appeal.
Chelsea v Man City: Tactical Tweaks
The tactical battle between Guardiola and his former assistant Maresca will be fascinating here, while it offers some interesting betting angles. For Chelsea, Romeo Lavia has had a strong pre-season after a wash-out campaign last term. He’s featured in more advanced roles for Chelsea, while he’s someone Maresca knows well having worked with him at City’s academy. He’s an underrated attacking option and worth a look for a shot on target.
Some teething issues we’ve seen with Maresca’s approach have been at right-back, where neither Reece James or Malo Gusto have looked comfortable inverting. There’s been a lot of space on that side, which could reward left-back Josko Gvardiol. The Croatian is also a set-piece threat and this Chelsea side does lack height. Given that, pairing Gvardiol and Lavia for a shot on target at 16.0 stands out.
Chelsea v Man City: Expert Tips
Christopher Nkunku to score anytime @ 3.12 with kwiff
Match Result ‘Draw’ @ 3.5 with kwiff
Romeo Lavia and Josko Gvardiol 1+ shot on target each @ 16.0 with kwiff
Please note that the information provided in this Yarmouth Eyecatchers article is for entertainment purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. Any action you take upon the information on this article is strictly at your own risk, and we will not be liable for any losses and damages in connection with the use of our article. We do not encourage gambling and remind you to gamble responsibly.
18+ | BeGambleAware.org
