Everton vs Manchester City Prediction Adam Hakanson Pro Tipster

Everton: Form, Lineup & Prediction

Current form

Everton has struggled to convert draws into wins, with 3 draws and 1 win in the last 5 matches. Scoring has been modest, with only 4 goals in these 5 games, but defensive resilience has improved, including a clean sheet against Nottingham Forest. The team shows a tendency to grind out results but lacks consistent attacking threat.

Key players and injuries

• Iliman Ndiaye (Forward): 27 appearances, 7 goals this season; key goal threat.
• Beto (Forward): 24 appearances, 6 goals; important in attack.
• Abdoulaye Doucouré (Midfielder): 28 appearances, 3 goals; influential in midfield control and defensive duties.
• Dominic Calvert-Lewin (injury) – Last appearance not recent, still sidelined.
• Jesper Lindstrøm (injury) – Doubtful for the match.
• Oumar Mangala (injury) – Out of squad recently.

Position in the standings

Everton sits mid-table, fighting to secure Premier League safety with 38 points from 32 games.

Strengths and weaknesses

Everton tends to adopt a more cautious approach, often sitting deeper and relying on counter-attacks and set pieces. Defensive organization has improved, but the team struggles to maintain prolonged possession against top teams. Goals often come from forwards like Iliman Ndiaye and Beto, who have contributed 7 and 6 goals respectively this season. Set-piece delivery and effectiveness remain a key part of Everton's attacking strategy.

Prediction for Everton

Everton will likely approach this match with a defensive mindset, aiming to frustrate Manchester City and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities and set pieces. Their recent improved defensive resilience could make them difficult to break down, but they may struggle to create clear-cut chances against City's possession-based style. A narrow defeat or a hard-fought draw is a plausible outcome for the home side given their current form and approach.

Manchester City: Form, Lineup & Prediction

Current form

Manchester City has been in strong attacking form, scoring 11 goals in the last 5 league matches. The team is capable of comebacks and high-scoring games, demonstrated by the 5-2 win over Crystal Palace after trailing 0-2. Defensive solidity is generally good but has shown some vulnerability in high-scoring matches.

Key players and injuries

• Erling Haaland (Forward): 28 appearances, 21 goals; currently injured but remains the main goal threat when fit.
• Kevin De Bruyne (Midfielder): 22 appearances, 7 assists; creative engine of the team.
• Phil Foden (Midfielder): 25 appearances, 7 goals; injured but key when available.
• Omar Marmoush (Forward): 10 appearances, 6 goals; emerging as an effective scorer recently.
• Ederson (goalkeeper) – Injury.
• Manuel Akanji (defender) – Injury.
• Nathan Aké (defender) – Injury.
• John Stones (defender) – Injury.
• Rodri (midfielder) – Injury.

Position in the standings

Manchester City is in the top six, currently 5th with 55 points from 32 games, pushing for Champions League qualification and possibly the title race.

Strengths and weaknesses

Typically employs a possession-based, high-pressing style under Pep Guardiola, often in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation. Recent matches show high xG (expected goals) values, with an emphasis on quick transitions and set-piece effectiveness. Average possession in recent games hovers around 65-70%. Key attacking metrics include high shots on target and creativity from midfielders like Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden. Set pieces have been productive, with goals from free kicks and corners recently.

Prediction for Manchester City

Despite a lengthy injury list, Manchester City's attacking depth and Pep Guardiola's tactical prowess make them favorites against Everton. Their possession-based style and ability to create chances through midfield creativity and set pieces could overwhelm Everton's defensive approach. However, the home side's resilience may make it challenging for City to runaway with a convincing victory. A narrow win or a high-scoring draw remains a distinct possibility for the visitors.

Head-to-Head statistics (Recent Meetings)

• 26 Dec 2024: Man City 1–1 Everton (Bernardo Silva scored early; Ndiaye equalized for Everton)
• 10 Feb 2024: Man City 2–0 Everton (Comfortable City win)
• 27 Dec 2023: Everton 1–3 Man City (City dominant at Everton's home)
• 14 May 2023: Everton 0–3 Man City (Clear City victory)
• 31 Dec 2022: Man City 1–1 Everton (Draw)

Betting Odds & Coefficients

• Manchester City Win: 1.40
• Draw: 4.75
• Everton Win: 7.50
• Over 2.5 goals: 1.85
• Under 2.5 goals: 1.95
• Both Teams to Score (BTTS) - Yes: 1.70
• Both Teams to Score (BTTS) - No: 2.10
• Draw No Bet: Manchester City favored at around 1.20
• Correct Score Markets: Popular bets include 2-1 or 3-1 to Manchester City.