1 more win and Manchester City will etch their name into the Premier League history books. Pep Guardiola’s men are on the verge of becoming the first in England to win a staggering 4 consecutive League titles! This would also greatly soften the blow of their cruel exit in the Champions League. However, just like Aston Villa in 2022, the Sky Blues face a stern final match-day encounter against West Ham.
For the Hammers, the match has little significance. They are safe from the relegation spots and a win won’t get them European competitions. But, the approach of David Moyes and co could have a significant impact on the title race. If West Ham can prevent Manchester City from winning and Arsenal win their game, the Gooners will walk away as the champions. Before diving into the match prediction, let’s look at the latest team updates.
Team & Injury News
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The big story emanating from the Etihad is regarding Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian suffered an ankle injury in the Tottenham game. As per Guardiola. a final decision on him will be made only after assessment in training. Hence, De Bruyne’s chances of featuring are strictly 5o-50. There is also a guaranteed absence in the form of goalkeeper Ederson. The Brazilian has a fractured eye socket and is confirmed to be out for the match.
For West Ham, Manchester City loanee Kalvin Phillips is unavailable with a calf strain. Regardless of the injury, he would not have been eligible anyway due to his loan clause. David Moyes is also sweating over the fitness of his defenders. A final decision of the centre backs Konstantinos Mavropanos (knock), and Nayef Aguerd (ankle), will be made ahead of kick-off.
Manchester City vs West Ham United: Expected Lineups
Manchester City predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1) : Stefan Ortega; Walker, Dias, Akanji, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Bernardo Silva, Foden, Grealish; Haaland
West Ham predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1) : Areola; Coufal,Ogbonna, Zouma, Emerson; Soucek, Ward-Prowse; Lucas Paqueta, Bowen, Kudus; Antonio
H2H stats
The 2 sides have faced each other 120 times with Manchester City and West Ham winning 63 & 38 games respectively. The remaining 19 matches ended up in draws.
Match prediction
The Sky Blues have been on a roll recently and have won their last 6 games on a trot. Considering how clutch Manchester City are in the final phase of the season, it’s hard to look past them. As such, we predict Pep Guardiola and co to win 3-1 courtesy of goals from Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.
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Manchester City vs West Ham United: When & where to watch
The game kicks off at the Etihad Stadium on 19th May, UK – 16:00 / US EST – 11:00. Viewers in the US can catch the match via the Peacock app and on the USA Network. In the UK, the game will be televised live on Sky Sports.
Can West Ham spring a surprise tomorrow? More importantly, who will walk away with the Premier League trophy? Let us know below.
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