Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
This will be the fourth time this month that Everton face a team currently occupying a Champions League qualification spot. Manchester City travel to Goodison Park aiming to be as clinical as they were last weekend at the Etihad Stadium, where they put five past Crystal Palace in a 5:2 win.
Everton
Since David Moyes returned to the dugout, Everton have managed to create a buffer above the relegation zone. However, a finish higher than 13th appears out of reach, with ongoing struggles in attacking build-up limiting their potential. After 32 matchdays, the squad has managed just 34 goals – only clubs in the relegation zone have scored fewer. At home, they have picked up only 20 points, ranking them sixth from bottom for home form in the league.
Manchester City
Even with five Champions League spots now available in the English Premier League, Manchester City cannot afford to relax — they are just one point ahead of sixth-placed Chelsea. Against Crystal Palace, they were clinical, producing 4.60 xG despite being without Erling Haaland. On the road, Manchester City have scored 25 goals in 16 matches – only seven teams have a better away scoring record. Kevin De Bruyne is in top form, having delivered both a goal and an assist in the previous round, and will be eager to make an impact in what could be his final run of games with the club.
Everton vs Manchester City Prediction
Before the 1:1 draw in December, Everton had suffered three consecutive defeats against Manchester City, with a combined scoreline of 1:8. Backing the away side looks like the logical choice given the current dynamics.
