Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
In the last two rounds, Erling Haaland has scored consecutive hat-tricks. Will there be a third hat-trick this season?
Manchester City
Yes, the Norwegian netted three goals each against Ipswich Town and West Ham United. On Monday, he also secured a win for his national team against Austria. His excellent form is almost a guarantee for victory. West Ham United managed to stop all of Manchester City's other players but not him. That said, the team did have some luck in that match: the woodwork saved them twice, and they scored only after a Rúben Dias own goal. So far, Manchester City are averaging exactly three goals per match.
Brentford
Brentford haven't conceded that many goals: a maximum of two against Liverpool, which is below their xG by 0.65. And this isn't an isolated case. In all three completed rounds, they have conceded less than expected (-1.39 xG). Thanks to their defensive resilience, Brentford have climbed to sixth place in the Premier League. However, the xG stats indicate that their opponents are regularly creating chances but failing to convert them. Manchester City , with a superstar striker, are unlikely to face such issues.
Manchester City — Brentford Prediction
Good news for Manchester City has arrived. Crucial midfielder and Ballon d'Or contender Rodri Hernández played his first match since the victorious European Championship final. He played nearly an hour for Spain against Switzerland in the Nations League, which means he should feature on Saturday. Phil Foden's return remains uncertain as he missed England's matches due to health issues. His absence could slightly weaken Manchester City's attacking potential, but not significantly. Additionally, Savio Moreira should be fit for the game.
Manchester City are very strong at home. Last Premier League season, they won 14 of their 19 home matches, with five draws, and a goal difference of 51-16. We predict a comfortable win for the hosts, as Brentford currently don't seem capable of challenging Manchester City at the Etihad.
