Manchester City travels to the Gtech Community Stadium to face Brentford this Sunday afternoon, with the opportunity to capitalize on Liverpool's recent struggles. The Cityzens, currently trailing behind their title rivals, Arsenal and Liverpool, are aiming to secure a crucial victory in this Premier League clash.
Brentford, however, will be looking to cause an upset, especially after their recent 3-1 victory over Manchester United. The Bees also hold an unbeaten home record this season, having already taken points against Chelsea. Manager Keith Andrews is aware of the formidable threat posed by Manchester City but will be encouraged by his team's home form.
Recent Form and Team News
Manchester City suffered a late setback in their midweek Champions League match against Monaco, drawing 2-2. However, their Premier League form has been strong, and they'll be looking to extend their unbeaten run to seven matches. Erling Haaland is in exceptional goal-scoring form, with 17 goals for club and country this season.
Brentford, meanwhile, will welcome back Fábio Carvalho to their squad after recovering from a minor knee injury. Reiss Nelson is also available after recovering from illness. However, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Omar Marmoush and Rayan Cherki remain sidelined.
For Manchester City, Rodri is expected to start after being rested against Burnley. Savinho, fresh from signing a new contract, is also in line to start. However, Pep Guardiola will have to make a decision regarding the right-back position, with John Stones and Matheus Nunes in contention.
Liverpool's Disarray
Liverpool, who had a strong start to their title defense, have suffered a "mini-crisis" after losing three consecutive games across all competitions. These defeats have allowed Arsenal to climb to the top of the Premier League table, putting pressure on Liverpool to bounce back. Liverpool lost to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray before their most recent defeat to Chelsea. Their struggles have opened the door for Manchester City to close the gap in the title race.
Prediction
Despite Brentford's strong home form and recent win against Manchester United, Manchester City are the favorites to win this match. City's devastating goal-scoring form, led by Erling Haaland, and their need to keep pace with Arsenal make them a dangerous opponent.
However, Brentford's ability to score goals and their solid home record suggest that they will not make it easy for City. A high-scoring game with both teams finding the net is a likely possibility.
Predicted score: Brentford 1-2 Manchester City.
The match is scheduled for 4.30pm BST at the Gtech Community Stadium.
