Sunday’s Premier League finale at the Etihad will see two of this season’s best sides face off as Man City host Aston Villa.
Man City will be looking to end the campaign on a high in what could be Pep Guardiola’s final league match in charge, and Villa will arrive full of confidence after their remarkable Europa League triumph under Unai Emery.
Despite seeing their title hopes officially end following a dramatic draw at Bournemouth, City remain formidable at the Etihad and have been in excellent form domestically, losing just once in their last 12 home league matches.
Erling Haaland is also on course to win his third Premier League Golden Boot, with the Norwegian striker scoring his 27th goal of the Campaign last time out.
Emery’s side have enjoyed a historic season, capped by European silverware this week, and players like Ollie Watkins, Morgan Rogers, and John McGinn have consistently delivered in the biggest moments.
Aston Villa have already beaten City once this season, a 1-0 victory at Villa Park back in October thanks to Matty Cash.
With both teams among the Premier League’s highest scorers this season, Sunday’s meeting could provide an entertaining finish to the domestic campaign.
What are the best picks for Man City vs Aston Villa?
Manchester City to Win
City have been one of the Premier League’s strongest home sides this season and have lost just once in their last 12 league matches at the Etihad. Guardiola’s side will also be motivated to finish the campaign with a win after seeing their title hopes end last weekend.
Although Villa have enjoyed an excellent season and already beat City earlier in the campaign, their away record against top-six opposition has been inconsistent, and Thursday’s Europa League final could also have an impact on squad freshness heading into Sunday.
Over 2.5 Goals
Matches involving both sides have regularly produced goals this season.
City continue to average over two goals per game in the league, while Villa’s attacking approach under Emery has led to several high-scoring contests throughout the campaign.
With players such as Haaland, Foden, Watkins, and Rogers all expected to feature, there is plenty of attacking quality on both sides heading into the final weekend.
Erling Haaland to Score Anytime
Haaland scored his 27th Premier League goal of the season against Bournemouth and remains on course to secure another Golden Boot – does he even have enough room for another one?
The Norwegian has also maintained an excellent scoring record at the Etihad, where City have consistently created a high volume of chances.
Against a Villa side that may rotate after European action during the week, Haaland should again see opportunities in and around the penalty area on Sunday.
Where can I watch Man City vs Aston Villa?
Fans in the United States can watch this game live on Peacock. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:00 AM EST.
In the UK, Manchester City vs Aston Villa will be shown live on Sky Sports, with coverage available on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports+. Kickoff is scheduled for 16:00 GMT.
What have the managers said?
Pep Guardiola:
“We know exactly what we have to do. It’s not complicated. They have always been difficult. In recent years, they have been tough, tough games.”
Unai Emery:
“Always, it’s very, very difficult to face him.” (speaking about Pep Guardiola). Starting the match from the first minute, we must be focused 100%.”
What is Man City’s predicted team?
Donnarumma – Nunes, Khushanov, Guehi, O’Reilly – Rodri, Silva, Semenyo, Cherki, Doku – Haaland.
What is Aston Villa’s predicted team?
Martinez – Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne – Lindelof, Tielemans, McGinn, Rogers, Buendia – Watkins.
Injured: Kamara, Edward
