Premier League action heats up as Leicester City takes on Manchester City at King Power Stadium on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 8:30 PM (GMT). Leicester, under the guidance of their manager, will aim to surprise the league leaders, while Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City continues their pursuit of retaining the Premier League title.
Leicester vs Manchester City Form Guide
Leicester City
Leicester City has shown flashes of brilliance this season, often fighting back from losing positions. However, they have struggled to maintain possession and defend against set pieces, which could prove costly against a well-drilled City side. Key players like Facundo Buonanotte and Jordan Ayew will need to step up to challenge City’s dominance.
Manchester City
Manchester City remains one of the strongest teams in the league, excelling in creating opportunities through individual skill and long-range shots. With Erling Haaland leading the attack and Kevin De Bruyne back in the mix, Guardiola’s side will look to dominate possession and impose their style of play on Leicester.
Leicester vs Manchester City Key Battles
Facundo Buonanotte vs Erling Haaland
Leicester’s Facundo Buonanotte, with 4 goals, faces Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who leads the league with 13 goals. Buonanotte has shown promise with his sharpness in front of goal, but Haaland’s sheer dominance, physicality, and consistency make him a standout force in attack. This battle highlights the contrast in firepower between the two sides.
Jordan Ayew vs Jérémy Doku
In terms of goals and assists, Leicester’s Jordan Ayew, with 4 contributions, takes on Manchester City’s Jérémy Doku, who has 5. Ayew’s work rate and versatility provide a steady influence for Leicester, while Doku’s pace and flair add a dynamic edge to City’s attack. This matchup will be crucial in determining which player can create more opportunities and make the greater impact in the game.
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Leicester vs Manchester City Tactical Outlook
Leicester will likely rely on a counter-attacking approach, utilizing their width and speed on the flanks. Managerial tactics will focus on breaking up City’s rhythm and exploiting their occasional vulnerability to counter-attacks.
Manchester City will look to dominate possession and attack through the middle, combining short passes with incisive movement. They’ll rely on their ability to create chances through individual brilliance and long shots, while maintaining their high-pressing defensive strategy.
Head-to-Head Encounters
In their last 24 meetings, Leicester City has won 5 games, while Manchester City has triumphed 15 times, with 4 matches ending in a draw. Manchester City enters the fixture as strong favorites, with odds of 1.33 for a win compared to Leicester’s 8.00.
Injury News and Suspensions
Leicester City
Leicester City faces a challenging period with several key players sidelined due to injuries. Abdul Fatawu’s cruciate ligament injury rules him out until August 2025, while Ricardo Pereira is sidelined until mid-March with a hamstring issue. The team also grapples with the absences of Kasey McAteer, Wilfred Ndidi, Wout Faes, and Mads Hermansen, all expected back by January 2025. Adding to the worries, Jamie Vardy remains doubtful for upcoming matches due to a knock.
Manchester City
Manchester City has its own share of injury woes, including the season-ending cruciate ligament injury to Rodri. Oscar Bobb and John Stones are both ruled out until early and mid-January 2025, respectively. Defensive stalwart Rúben Dias is also unavailable until mid-January due to a calf injury. Meanwhile, illnesses cast doubt over Ederson Moraes and Kyle Walker’s availability, while Jack Grealish and Matheus Nunes struggle with fitness issues, leaving Pep Guardiola with a depleted squad.
Leicester vs Manchester City Possible Playing Squad
Leicester City
Stolarczyk (GK), Kristiansen, Vestergaard, Coady, Justin, Winks, Soumaré, Mavididi, Buonanotte, Ayew, Daka
Manchester City
Ortega (GK), Gvardiol, Aké, Akanji, Lewis, Kovačić, Doku, De Bruyne, Foden, Savinho, Haaland
Match Details at a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leicester City vs Manchester City | Sunday, December 29, 2024 | 8:30 PM (GMT) | Premier League | King Power Stadium, Leicester, England |
Match Prediction
Leicester’s determination and home support might test City’s resolve, but Manchester City’s superior quality and tactical discipline are likely to shine through.
Score Prediction
Manchester City is expected to clinch a 3-1 victory over Leicester City in this encounter. With their attacking brilliance and midfield dominance, City is likely to control the game from start to finish. Leicester might manage a goal, but their defense could struggle to withstand City’s relentless pressure. This matchup strongly favors the reigning champions to secure a commanding win.