An inconsistent Chelsea side could give Manchester City and tricky test at the Etihad Stadium later today. Pep Guardiola’s side square off with Mauricio Pochettino’s team in a crucial Premier League clash. It could be a pulsating encounter based on their last encounter. The last meeting between the two sides finished 4-all at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea gave Manchester City headaches before both teams had to settle for a point.
As it stands currently Chelsea sits a lowly 10th on the Premier League table. Given the quality of their squad on paper Mauricio Pochettino’s squad have again disappointed this season. But despite this, they do appear well-equipped to take on Pep Guardiola’s side at the Etihad Stadium.
One thing Chelsea do have in abundance in their squad is pace up front. With Christopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson, Raheem Sterling, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer and Mkhailo Mudryk Maurcio Pochettino’s side do have the weapons to get at the world champions. While they have been inconsistent they do have the weapons capable of exploiting possibly the only weakness in Manchester City’s arsenal.
Pace has caused Manchester City issues this season
The European champions have been susceptible to quick counterattacks and pacey wingers this season. Newcastle took advantage of this in City’s 3-2 win at St.James Park. RB Leipzig also used their pace to trouble the European champions in their two meetings in the Champions League earlier this season. Pedro Neto gave City a torrid time at Molineux in Wolves 2-1 win over the champions at the beginning of the season. If Chelsea’s frontmen fire City will have to be guard at the back to keep out their pacey threat up front.
If the Manchester City defence is on their game it could go a long way to winning today’s match. Chelsea has the weapons to get at City if they’re on their game. City will need to be on their game to contain Chelsea’s pace and threat up front. It will be a fascinating feature of what promises to be another enthralling encounter between the two sides.
