As the season unfolds, Manchester City continues to navigate a tumultuous journey. Despite their inconsistent performances, Pep Guardiola's squad remains firmly in contention for a coveted Champions League spot as they prepare to host a revitalized Crystal Palace this Saturday.
The reigning champions have struggled to find their rhythm this season, failing to secure back-to-back league victories since January. Currently positioned outside the Premier League's top five—a critical threshold for Champions League qualification—City enters this match following a lackluster 0-0 draw against their fierce rivals, Manchester United.
In stark contrast, Crystal Palace has steadily improved after a challenging start that left them winless until late October. The Eagles have transformed into one of the league's most reliable teams, blending tenacity with creativity. They come into this fixture riding high on the momentum of a morale-boosting victory over their bitter rivals, Brighton, at Selhurst Park last weekend.
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
- Location: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England
- Kick-off Time: 12:30 GMT / 07:30 ET / 04:30 PT
- Referee: Jarred Gillett
- VAR Official: Peter Bankes
How to Watch
- TV Channel: The match will be broadcast live in the UK on TNT Sports, beginning at 12:30 PM BST.
- Live Stream: Fans can watch the game online via the Discovery+ app and website.
- Live Blog: Standard Sport will provide a live blog to follow all the action on matchday.
Team News
Manchester City: City is still missing several key players, including Rodri, Erling Haaland, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Nathan Ake, who are all out with long-term injuries. Fortunately, there are no additional short-term fitness concerns for the squad.
Crystal Palace: The Eagles will be without Marc Guehi and Eddie Nketiah, both suspended due to red cards received in their last match against Brighton. However, they are expected to field Maxence Lacroix and Chris Richards in defense. Long-term absentees Chadi Riad and Cheick Doucoure will also miss out.
Head-to-Head Record
In their last five encounters:
- Manchester City: 3 wins
- Crystal Palace: 0 wins
- Draws: 2
Score Prediction
Manchester City may have slipped to sixth place, but they have an opportunity to apply significant pressure on Chelsea and Newcastle with a win on Saturday. Their performance at Old Trafford last week was uninspired, but the return of their dynamic wide players could enhance their attacking threat against a depleted Palace defense.
Although Palace will adopt a defensive approach with the players available, they have the capability to exploit transitions and counterattack effectively. City may find it challenging to break down a well-organized defense, particularly in the absence of Haaland. However, Guardiola's side is typically resilient at home, and the presence of players like Omar Marmoush could spark them to a crucial victory.
Prediction: Manchester City 2 - 1 Crystal Palace
Zainab Y.
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