Man City vs Chelsea is the big EPL game Saturday and while the odds matter to us, this game might be a little bit academic for both teams after their Champions League wins midweek.
City saw off the challenge of PSG Tuesday night and all roads lead to the final for them now, with Chelsea meanwhile eliminated Real Madrid to set up an all-UK final in Istanbul at the end of May.
Expect both teams to make roster changes this weekend as these two master coaches pit their wits against each other yet again. Thomas Tuchel remember has already proven he has the better of Pep Guardiola, based on their recent FA Cup semi-final victory.
This will be like the opening rounds of a boxing contest as both managers feel each other out ahead of the big one in a few weeks time.
I expect it to be tight, cagey, and as little exertion as possible for players who want to remain fit for the biggest game of their careers.
Man City vs Chelsea odds
Despite Chelsea defeating City in their FA Cup encounter, the home team remains a significant favorite for this one at -120, with Chelsea priced at +390 and the draw +275.
Man City vs Chelsea stats
Chelsea’s defensive performances under Thomas Tuchel have been nothing short of revolutionary. Karim Benzema’s volley in the first leg vs Real Madrid was the only goal the team has conceded in its last six games in all competitions, a real transformation from the days of Frank Lampard.
But the same can be said of City. After its worst-ever start to a Premier League season under Guardiola, something changed, and now City is among the meanest teams in Europe. Only three goals conceded in its last six games, one of which was of course to Chelsea in the FA Cup. Both defenses are in supreme form.
Man City vs Chelsea injury report
John Stones is suspended, serving the final game of a three-match ban for being sent off against Aston Villa. Other than Eric Garcia, who is a long-term concern, City has no other pressing injury issues.
For Chelsea, Mateo Kovacic’s thigh problem is likely to keep him out for another week at least.
Predictions and expert betting picks
This is likely to be a cagey encounter between two world-class coaches not willing to give too much away.
So expect us to see a tight, low-scoring affair.
If you’re brave, the 0-0 draw is +800, but we’ll take Under 2.5 goals at -147 as our pick (Resorts).
What time does Man City vs Chelsea start?
The match will take in place at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester on Saturday May 8 with a kick off time of 1230 ET (0930 PT).
How can I watch Man City vs Chelsea on TV?
Man City versus Chelsea will be shown on NBC Sports and Peacock Premium.