Match Preview: Manchester City vs West Ham (Premier League)

Another vital three points are on the line as Manchester City take on West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium in their latest Premier League encounter.

Entering the business end of the season, it’s crunch time in the title race with games coming thick and fast. The Blues look to continue their quest for the three trophies still up for grabs by hosting West Ham in their latest challenge.

Last time out in the Premier League, the reigning champions took on Fulham at Craven Cottage in what was a rather difficult afternoon, despite taking an early lead thanks to an Erling Haaland penalty, who netted his 50^th goal of the season.

While a comfortable afternoon’s work appeared to be on the cards, things would not pan out that way, with Fulham equalising thanks to Carlos Vinicius just 15 minutes into the game, leaving things perfectly poised for a possible upset.

Julian Alvarez had other plans however, as the Argentine stepped up to the responsibility by delivering a lethal strike into the top left corner from range, leaving Bernd Leno helpless in the Fulham goal.

Although Fulham failed to create any real chances of significance, it was far from a comfortable afternoon for the Premier League champions, as they looked to see the rest of the game out unscathed.

That task was managed successfully in what was ultimately a Champion-like performance, as the blues picked up a massive three points and enhanced their chances of a third straight Premier League title.

Attentions now turns to the visit of West Ham United – the side who Manchester City faced on the opening day of the Premier League season when Erling Haaland was first introduced to the English top-flight and scored two goals.

Manchester City look to return to top spot, after Arsenal saw off Chelsea on Tuesday night and temporarily leapfrogged Pep Guardiola’s players into first place. A victory for the blues on Wednesday night would see them do just that.

West Ham have all but secured Premier League safety this season – a fact that was uncertain not too long ago, with a relegation battle panning out for the Irons.

Despite not having anything of note to play for this season domestically, stopping the Champions is always a sufficient incentive for any team – something which Pep Guardiola and his players will be looking to prevent.

The Manchester City boss confirmed during his pre-match press conference that Nathan Ake would be ready to return to the matchday squad on Wednesday night, providing a huge boost for the blues. However, Kevin De Bruyne looks set to be short of fitness, and will be assessed ahead of the contest.

With every three points being crucial at this stage, Manchester City will be under no illusion that they can afford to slouch, as the home crowd will look to provide the morale boost needed to get the squad over the line in what remains of the season.

Fatigue may be catching up on some players as the season comes to an exciting close, but the players must push through the mental barrier in the month of May – the month where champions are made.

Whether it’s an action-packed thriller like the last time the Etihad Stadium, or a game which Manchester City simply have to get over the line, the three points at stake are crucial as the hunt for the treble continues to grow in possibility.

When?

Manchester City vs West Ham United will take place on Wednesday 3rd May, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 BST

Where?

Wednesday’s match will take place at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester.

How to watch?

For viewers in the United Kingdom, you can view the match live on Sky Sports.

For viewers in the United States, you can view the match on USA Network, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 EST.

Full TV listings HERE.