Manchester City, fresh off their Club World Cup triumph, aims to end 2023 on a high note as they face Sheffield United at the Etihad Stadium in a Premier League encounter.
Match Preview
Manchester City resumed their Premier League campaign after winning the Club World Cup by defeating Everton 3-1.
Despite trailing at halftime, goals from Phil Foden, Julian Alvarez, and Bernardo Silva secured a comeback win for the Citizens. They currently sit in the top four, closing in on the league leaders.
Guardiola’s team has displayed inconsistencies in defense, conceding in their last eight Premier League games.
However, they maintain an unbeaten streak against Sheffield United in their previous 11 league meetings, winning their last six encounters.
Sheffield United faced disappointment in their recent match against Luton Town, relinquishing a lead to suffer a 3-2 defeat. With just nine points from 19 games, they languish at the bottom of the table, seven points adrift of safety.
The Blades have struggled defensively, conceding the most goals in the league this season. Despite their historical resilience against City, they remain winless in recent fixtures and are yet to keep a clean sheet away from home this campaign.
Team News
Manchester City’s John Stones sustained an ankle injury against Everton and is doubtful for the upcoming match.
Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, and Ruben Dias also face fitness assessments. Erling Haaland remains sidelined but could return in January.
Sheffield United has several absentees, including Chris Basham, John Egan, Tom Davies, and Daniel Jebbison due to injuries. Anel Ahmedhodzic and Gustavo Hamer are suspended for accumulating yellow cards.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester City: (4-2-3-1)
Ederson;
Walker, Akanji, Dias, Ake;
Lewis, Rodri;
Bernardo, Foden, Grealish;
Alvarez
Sheffield United: (5-3-2)
Foderingham;
Bogle, Baldock, Robinson, Trusty, Lowe;
Souza, Norwood, Brooks;
Archer, McBurnie
Prediction: Manchester City 3-0 Sheffield United
Manchester City enters as clear favorites given their recent form and historical dominance against Sheffield United.
With the Blades struggling defensively and City’s attacking prowess, it’s expected that Guardiola’s side will secure a comfortable victory to end the year on a high note.