Manchester City vs Crystal Palace: EPL Match Preview, Odds & Predictions

As Manchester City prepares for a crucial  Premier League clash at the Etihad, both sides must navigate key absences and lean on in-form stars. With Erling Haaland and several key defenders ruled out, Pep Guardiola will turn to fresh faces to keep City's top-four hopes alive. Meanwhile, despite suspensions and injuries, a surging Crystal Palace side will look to continue their impressive form with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Adam Wharton leading the charge.

Previous Matches and Head to Head

Manchester City needs a quick rebound after a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford. Despite an FA Cup win at Bournemouth, they've managed just one league victory since February and remain outside the Champions League spots. With no back-to-back home league wins since October, Saturday's clash is a must-win for Guardiola's side.

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are in top form. Oliver Glasner's team has surged up the table after a 3-0 FA Cup win over Fulham and a dramatic 2-1 derby win against Brighton. With momentum on their side, Palace head to the Etihad, eyeing a spot in the top half.

Manchester City x Crystal Palace Team News

Erling Haaland remains out for Man City with an ankle injury, along with defenders Akanji, Stones, and Ake. January signing Omar Marmoush, who has five league goals, leads the attack, while Kevin De Bruyne—set to leave the club this summer—hopes to retain his starting spot.

Due to red cards, Palace will be without Eddie Nketiah and Marc Guehi, and Cheick Doucoure remains sidelined with a knee injury. Jean-Philippe Mateta, now on 13 goals, leads the line, while Etihad-linked Adam Wharton starts in midfield.

Our Predictions

Both teams to score @ 1.66 on Sky247.ng.

Manchester City are under tremendous pressure coming into this match, as they started Saturday's matches outside of the Champions League berths.  In their reverse Premier League match on December 7th, they were eventually forced to settle for a 2-2 draw. Guardiola's uneven team should be ready for a tough challenge at home.  Considering Crystal Palace is yet to lose a road game this year, the Eagles have every right to be concerned.

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