Paul Merson has shared his thoughts on the upcoming Manchester City vs Chelsea match, and he’s not making any bold predictions. Instead, the former Arsenal player is acknowledging that this one could go either way.
Merson’s comments suggest that he’s unsure of what to expect from both teams, given their inconsistent performances in recent weeks. “This one could go anywhere,” he said. “It’s a hard game to call. You just don’t know what you’re gonna get with Manchester City. It’s the same with Chelsea. You never know what you’re going to get.”
Merson’s uncertainty is understandable, given the unpredictable nature of both teams. Manchester City has been inconsistent in recent weeks, while Chelsea has struggled to find form, winning only a few games in their last seven or eight matches.
Merson’s prediction is a reflection of the unpredictability of the Premier League, where anything can happen on any given day. While Manchester City is currently top of the league, Chelsea has the potential to cause an upset, making this match a must-watch for football fans.
Ultimately, Merson’s prediction is a cautious one, acknowledging that this match could go either way. Only time will tell if Manchester City’s quality will shine through or if Chelsea can pull off a surprise victory.
After starting the season so strongly, City looked on course to at least compete for a fifth-straight Premier League title. However, a remarkable collapse to conclude 2024 has seen their objectives shift drastically for the season.
While their domestic form has picked up in the new year, Pep Guardiola’s side are fifth in the table and a couple of points off their upcoming opponents in fourth. City head into Saturday’s bout having collapsed in Paris on Wednesday night, leaving their Champions League status in doubt.
Chelsea enjoyed the week off after downing Wolves 3-1 on Monday night – their first league win since Christmas. The Blues were deemed a title contender not so long ago, but their indifferent run over the past month has brought them back down to earth. They’re fighting for a top-four spot with Enzo Maresca aiming to improve on Mauricio Pochettino’s sole season at the club.
City coasted to a 2-0 victory the last time these two sides faced off on the opening weekend of the season.
Man City have been swift to reinforce this winter, and all three of their new arrivals are in contention for debuts this weekend. Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis represent the future of the Cityzens, but Guardiola needs them now, too.
There’s been persistent chopping and changing in defence due to injuries this season, and Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake have re-emerged with fitness concerns. While Dias was forced off at half-time against PSG on Wednesday, Ake didn’t feature at all. Both are doubtful fo Saturday’s game, but John Stones could return to the starting lineup.
Lynchpin Rodri remains out of action alongside Oscar Bobb and Jeremy Doku. Kyle Walker is Milan-bound.
