How do you beat Premier League leaders Manchester City?
by Constance Rigot | by Constance Rigot
How are City so unstoppable?
Manchester City suffered their first loss of the season to Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Wednesday, resting their key players for their important fixture this weekend. City have drawn one game so far, and that was against Everton when Kyle Walker was sent off in the first half. Since then, City have equalled the Premier League record, 13 consecutive wins. They have also scored 46 goals in only 15 games. Sane and Sterling are the weapons that are making City work at the moment. They have been the masterclass at attacking this season, with the help of Aguero at the top. Fernandinho holds the defensive line in midfield, in front of City’s magnificent defence, Delph, Otamendi, Kompany and Walker. Manchester United’s midfielders have been playing similar in recent games, right-backs Valencia and Young taking big opportunities to attack as much as possible. Will Mourinho allow them to attack them as much as their recent games? Or will he park the bus like he did against Liverpool.
Bet on a Draw 3.60 with Betfred
Big task for Jose Mourinho’s men
Not only United are the meanest defence in the top flight, the manager is also renowned for killing matches with his tactics. Mourinho will likely ask for a defensive game from his players, however he can use Ashley Young and Antonio Valencia to go forward, two players who can go back into defence on the counter attack. These two warriors have provided more Premier League goals and assists than Sterling and Sterling since November. United must break City on the break, making the most out of spot kicks and cross ins. Luckily for United, Kevin de Bruyne is out injured. However, the same goes for United as their key midfielder Paul Pogba will be on the side-lines on a one match ban.
Bet on Manchester City to win at 2.25 with Bet365
Most likely outcome: Draw
According to the odds, a draw it the least likely. However, our specialists believe these sides have very even quality of players. The two sides have both great duos: Sane and Sterling, Rashford and Martial. Lukaku and Aguero up front, similarities in attack. United definitely win on the goalkeeping sides, having the best keeper in the world, David de Ghea. Both side’s key midfielders, De Bruyne and Paul Pogba are out for the game. What leaves left is their defence. United have the best defence in the Premier League according to the stats. Having this at Old Trafford is another plus, but still, we can’t give the favourite to United yet, due to City 8 points above them in the League.
Bet on Manchester United to win at 3.40 with Betfred
How have they done in the past?
United were victorious during a friendly in the summer, a 2-0 victory there. Last season both sides won 1 each and drawn 1. Again, it is difficult to separate the sides from their head-to-head form. This will be a cracker!
