Betting: Nothing to split ‘super-managers’ Conte and Guardiola at the Etihad
A pair of the Premier League’s top clubs, and top managers, go head-to-head on Saturday in a match that could go a long way to deciding the destination of the trophy in May.
Chelsea visit the Etihad to take on Manchester City, leading the table, and their opponents, by a solitary point.
The Blues have reeled off seven straight wins, and the 3-4-3 formation implemented by boss Antonio Conte has so far proven inspired.
Christian Eriksen’s strike for Tottenham last weekend was the first time Chelsea have conceded since the tactical switch, and Spurs really made Conte’s men dig deep before coming out 2-1 victors.
However, the fact that Chelsea won against a high-quality Tottenham side will give them a real boost coming into tomorrow’s match.
The other ‘super-manager’ in this game is Pep Guardiola, who appears to have overcome his first wobble as City boss.
Guardiola went six games without tasting victory during October – but since returning to winning ways, City are now six games unbeaten.
Sergio Aguero scored twice against Burnley last weekend to make it 18 goals in his last 17 league starts.
The Argentine netted a hat-trick when the clubs last met, as City romped to a 3-0 victory at Stamford Bridge in April.
In truth, it’s difficult to split these high-quality sides.
I suspect both managers will be pleased with a point, which wouldn’t see them lose any ground on the other.
Back the draw at 5/2 with Betway.
These two finished first and second in 2014/15, and both of their clashes that season finished 1-1.
I see another chess match on the cards, and will be selling goals at 2.75 with Sporting Index.
Pointers
Draw – 5/2 (Betway)
Sell total goals – 2.75 (Sporting Index)