Paul Merson is confident Chelsea will deliver a significant blow to Manchester City at the Etihad, with Cole Palmer expected to cause major problems for his former club.
Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, have stumbled recently, winning just once in their last six league games. Their early-season form, which exceeded expectations, now feels like a distant memory.
Meanwhile, Manchester City, after a rough patch, appear to have steadied the ship and are unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches. A win this weekend would push Pep Guardiola’s side above fourth-placed Chelsea in the table.
However, City’s confidence took a hit midweek after a stunning Champions League collapse against Paris Saint-Germain, who overturned a two-goal deficit to win 4-2.
Reflecting on the defeat, former Arsenal star Paul Merson told Sky Sports News, “City haven’t been great, so this result doesn’t surprise me.
When PSG showed high energy, like Brentford did, they tore through City with ease. This team is evolving, but some key players are nearing the end of their peak, and they lack the energy to compete at the highest level consistently.”
Merson doubts City’s ability to mount a title challenge, predicting they will focus solely on securing a top-four spot. “I don’t see City in the title race anymore. They’ll fight for a Champions League place, but that’s it.
Chelsea and Arsenal are coming up, along with a Champions League tie against Club Brugge. I can’t see them keeping up.”
He boldly predicts Chelsea will triumph this weekend, citing their high energy and Palmer’s ability to exploit spaces. “Chelsea have the legs, and Palmer will find those pockets to hurt City.
Players like Bernardo Silva and Mateo Kovacic will struggle against him. City don’t press like they used to, and it shows.”
Merson also highlights matchups favoring Chelsea, such as Pedro Neto’s potential dominance on the left flank. “Neto could destroy Matheus Nunes on that side. I’d honestly be shocked if Chelsea lost this game.”
The big question remains: can Chelsea pull off an upset at the Etihad and shake up the race for the top four?