13 December 2021, 13:52 | 28 August 2021, 15:29
Manchester City returns early this week after Saturday's 1-0 win over Wolves, to take on Leeds United. Slated for Tuesday, this highly anticipated fixture kicks off at 21:00 (GMT+1) on Tuesday, December 14, at the City of Manchester Stadium.
Preview Manchester City Premier League, Dec 14, 2021
Preview Despite a barrage of light-blue attacks, Wolves were holding out for the draw and were doing a perfect job until Raúl Jiménez [R. 45’+2] pushed the red and dusty self-destruct button. The Mexican forward earned two yellow cards within a span of 48 seconds, - his second being a needless one, after sticking out a leg to block a City free kick. The moment of madness saw an already battered Wolves remain toothless for the rest of the game, having been reduced to ten men, leaving an opportunity for a City lead open for the taking. The resistance eventually caved in as City earned a penalty, calmly converted by Raheem Sterling (66’ P.) as José Sá was left diving the wrong way for the former's 100th Premier League goal. We were much better with 11 players and with 10 from Wolves. Pep said in his post-match press conference. It is so difficult against a team who defend the way they defend. Up against a team who didn't want to play, didn't want to attack. They defended so well and we deserved to get the win. We were by far the better team. He concluded. The victory leaves City with five wins in a row: WWWWW, and on top of the Premier League table, having picked up 38 points after 12W, 2D, and 2L. The 4—3—3 formation will remain. However, changes are expected in the attacking trio that faced Wolves, as Pep could consider giving one or two players a rest. Phil Foden could be returning to the starting line-up, while Mahrez could make a cameo having failed to feature over the weekend. City have no new injury worries, but João Cancelo is suspended for this fixture.
Preview Leeds United Premier League, Dec 14, 2021
Preview Three penalties over the course of the ninety saw the topsy-turvy game between the Peacocks and Blues swing from side to side. A Jorginho-styled penalty from the 3rd-placed Ballon d’Or Chelsea midfielder eventually divided both sides, deep inside extra-time (90’+4). I think the fair result would have been a draw. Marcelo Bielsa said in his post-match press conference. Both teams played a beautiful game. I never give an opinion [on the penalties]. Whatever the referee decides is fine with me, Marcelo Bielsa concluded. Despite the 3-2 defeat to Chelsea, Leeds United remained in 15th place on the Premier League table, having picked up 16 points from 3W, 7D, & 6L. The club has a form that reads: LDWDL ahead of this fixture against Manchester City. The 4—3—1—2 formation is expected to remain in place with Daniel James and Raphinha posing as the attacking duo.