Prediction: Manchester City vs Fulham

Prediction: Manchester City win

Best Odds: 1/9

Bookmaker: William Hill

We’re gearing up for more Premier League action again this weekend as the champions, Manchester City, return from the international break to face Fulham. The two clubs are in two very different positions at this moment in time, but in a league like this, literally anything is possible. The obvious result for this one is there for everyone to see but we’re expecting a tight game, as City attempt to not lose sight of the teams above them whereas the Cottagers aim to push further away from the relegation zone.

Manchester City

Manchester City have been backed to do some truly remarkable things throughout the course of this upcoming season, and we can understand why. They tore through the opposition last year en route to a triumphant Premier League success story, and now, they’re expected to keep that momentum going. Alas, as we saw against Wolves they certainly aren’t invincible, and you have to question whether or not Guardiola will subconsciously prioritise the Champions League as Liverpool did just a few short months ago.

Team News

Kevin de Bruyne is still out through injury, with Bravo also being on the shelf. Raheem Sterling faces a race against time to be fit for the game whereas Bernardo Silva seems to have recovered from a groin issue.

Fulham

Fulham spent more money than anyone could’ve ever dreamed of after gaining promotion back to the Premier League, but in truth, nobody should be all too shocked by that. In the modern era it’s only natural to spend big in order to keep up with the teams above and around you, and the Cottagers did that. They’ve had a mixed start to the campaign but they’re only just really starting to gel, and it’ll be exciting to see if they can play some attractive football against the always tricky champions.

Team News

Tom Cairney’s ankle injury should rule him out until the end of September, with Tim Ream still not picking up his first start of the season.

Factors to Consider

• The game is being played at the Etihad Stadium.
• Fulham have won one, drawn one and lost two of their Premier League games.
• Man City have won three and drawn one of their Premier League games.
• Man City lead the overall head to head rankings 30-17 with 16 draws.
• Fulham haven’t won in 11 games against City, with their last meeting being a 5-0 drubbing.

Conclusion

Manchester City are still probably the best team in the Premier League, and arguably the best team in European football. The question remains, though, as to what will happen if every single team plays against them like it’s a cup final and succeeds. We’ve seen before that retaining the Premier League title is an incredibly difficult thing to do, but with all of that being said, we can’t see Fulham being the team to slow them down. City will score early, stretch their legs, and ease to a 3-0 victory.

Prediction: Manchester City win

Best Odds: 1/9

Bookmaker: William Hill