Match Preview: Manchester City vs Everton (Premier League)

Manchester City close out the calendar year against Everton, where the reigning Premier League champions could continue to close the gap between themselves and current pace-setters Arsenal.

On Wednesday night, City returned to English top-flight action as they traveled to Elland Road to take on Leeds United in a match that wouldn’t prove to be much of a challenge over the course of the 90 minutes.

The first half was full of chances for Pep Guardiola’s players, with Manchester City finally breaking the deadlock on the stroke of half-time when Rodri pounced on a rebound from Illan Meslier to put the Blues ahead.

It wouldn’t take long into the second half for Erling Haaland to do what he does best, as the Norwegian doubled the Sky Blues’ lead off of a pass from Jack Grealish. This partnership would repeat itself later in the second period, making the score 0-3 in City’s favour.

Haaland’s second goal was his 20th in the Premier League this season, making him the fastest player to ever record that total – accomplishing the feat in only 14 games.

Despite the deficit, Jesse Marsch’s Leeds side did not give up, finding a goal of their own late into the game through Pascal Strujik’s headed effort.

With their victory at Elland Road on Wednesday night, Manchester City moved back into second place where they currently trail Arsenal by five points.

On the other side of the ticket this weekend sits Everton, who come into Saturday’s match off of a loss against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Boxing Day.

Their game against Wolves had some serious implications attached to it as both clubs currently sit either within or close to the relegation zone as the season resumes following the break from the FIFA World Cup.

The fixture itself appeared like it was going to end in a draw, however in the 95th minute Rayan Ait-Nouri guided in a cross from Adama Traore, putting Wolverhampton ahead.

Everton have lost their last ten successive matches against Manchester City and sit just one point above the relegation zone coming into Saturday’s meeting.

When?

Manchester City’s clash with Everton will take place on Saturday 31st December, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 GMT.

Where?

Saturday’s match will take place at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium.

How To Watch?

Saturday’s fixture will not be broadcasted for viewers in the United Kingdom due to the 3pm blackout.

For viewers in the United States, you can view the match on Peacock with kick-off scheduled for 10:00 a.m. EST.