Manchester City – Finding Their Feet Again?
Manchester City – Finding Their Feet Again?
Brentford ended their recent slump with an emphatic 5-0 win over Southampton last weekend. Kevin Schade opened the scoring early, before Bryan Mbeumo stole the show with two goals and an assist. While the victory provided a much-needed morale boost, it came against a Southampton side that has struggled mightily this season.
Key Stats:
Brentford have earned 22 of their 27 Premier League points at home, showcasing their dominance at the Gtech Community Stadium. The Bees have won seven home matches, the joint-most alongside Liverpool. Despite their strong home record, they remain the only Premier League team without a home clean sheet this season.
Team News: Manager Thomas Frank will welcome back Rico Henry after a 16-month injury absence, as well as Ben Mee, Christian Norgaard, and Vitaly Janelt. However, Brentford still have key absences, including Joshua Dasilva, Kristoffer Ajer, Ethan Pinnock, Igor Thiago, and Aaron Hickey.
Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool: A Clash Beyond Expectations
After a turbulent run of just one win in nine Premier League matches, Manchester City appear to have turned a corner with consecutive victories over Leicester and West Ham. However, both wins were hard-fought, with their opponents proving more than competitive. Pep Guardiola's side currently sit just three points away from fourth place, keeping their Champions League hopes alive.
Key Stats:
City have scored 12 goals in their last two matches, including an 8-0 demolition of Salford in the FA Cup.
Their away form remains inconsistent, with four losses in their last six Premier League road trips (W1, D1).
The Citizens have won their last three meetings with Brentford, including a 2-1 victory at home earlier this season.
Team News: Rúben Dias, John Stones, and Rodri remain sidelined with injuries, while youngster Oscar Bobb is back in training but unlikely to feature. Savinho has been in exceptional form, contributing to four goals (one goal, three assists) in his last two league appearances.
Manchester City are chasing their fourth consecutive victory against Brentford.
The Bees have managed just one clean sheet in their seven Premier League encounters with City.
Last season’s corresponding fixture saw Phil Foden score a hat-trick as City came from behind to win 3-1.
Brentford:
Thomas Frank’s side will look to capitalize on their strong home form, relying on their midfield strength and the attacking prowess of Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa and Kevin Schade. While their defense has been shaky at home, the return of key players like Rico Henry and Ben Mee could offer some much-needed stability.
Manchester City:
Pep Guardiola will aim to exploit Brentford's defensive vulnerabilities with their high-pressing style and creative attacking options. Savinho’s recent form adds an extra dimension to their forward line, but City's defensive frailties away from home remain a concern.
Odds (via Betsson):
Brentford Win: 4.80
Draw: 4.40
Manchester City Win: 1.68
Prediction
Brentford's home strength versus City's inconsistency on the road makes this an intriguing contest. While City boast the firepower to trouble any team, Brentford’s resilience at home should not be underestimated. Expect a tight game with both teams finding the net.
Tip: Draw No Bet (Brentford) – With Brentford's formidable home record, they are well-positioned to challenge City.