Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Even with a squad half-filled with their youthful talent, Manchester City left no doubt against a League Two side in the FA Cup, while Brentford virtually fielded their strongest lineup but suffered a loss against a Championship underdog. How can they measure up to the champions?
Brentford
In reality, against Plymouth Argyle (0:1), only goalkeeper Mark Flekken, left-back Keane Lewis-Potter, centre-back Nathan Collins, and forwards Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa were initially rested, with the latter pair eventually appearing. It’s one thing if they had taken 30 shots and faced sheer misfortune, but that wasn’t the case. They managed just nine attempts, with the opposing keeper barely tested — requiring only two saves. Until late December, Brentford were unbeaten at home (7-1-0), but counting the cup, this marks their third consecutive home defeat.
Manchester City
Manchester City, meanwhile, have finally shaken off their winless streak. They are now on a run of three consecutive victories, with an aggregate score of 14:1. Erling Haaland has rediscovered his goal-scoring touch (three goals in the last two rounds). In fact, even Jack Grealish has found the net, though it was a penalty, breaking a year-long drought. Despite any potential defensive issues, Manchester City's attack is formidable.
Brentford vs Manchester City Prediction
Currently, Brentford are facing a creative crisis. If it isn’t against Premier League strugglers like Southampton (5:0), they struggle to score, netting just three goals across five matches against Premier League sides. However, with a combination like Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa, the hosts can likely score against the not-so-perfect Manchester City defence, but conceding will come easily to them. Hence, the visitors will not lose.
