Manchester City return to Premier League action on Wednesday as they square off with Everton at Goodison Park.
Pep Guardiola’s side will enter the match on the back of an impressive victory over Fluminense to win their first-ever Club World Cup.
Match Preview
Everton suffered a 2-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend, with the result ending their four-game winning run in the Premier League.
The Lilywhites dominated the first half as Richarlison and Son Heung-min were both on target for the hosts. Andre Gomes sparked hopes of a comeback by reducing the arrears, but Spurs ultimately won by 2-1.
The defeat is unlikely to dampen the spirits of fans who are happy to see their team’s great response after the harsh points deduction penalty.
Meanwhile, Manchester City eased past Fluminense last week to claim their first-ever Club World Cup title.
The Citizens were at their destructive best as they struck their first goal within the first minute of the game through Julian Alvarez.
They extended their advantage before the interval as Nino inadvertently put the ball into his nets.
Alvarez added another in the second half while Phil Foden also earned his name on the scoresheet, helping City to an emphatic 4-0 success.
Pep Guardiola’s side will now turn their focus to the Premier League where they have been struggling for form.
Their latest league fixture saw them registering a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace.
City were in complete control of the Etihad Stadium encounter after goals from Jack Grealish and Rico Lewis. But they conceded two late goals and ultimately had to settle for a single point.
The Citizens are now fifth in the league table with 34 points from 17 matches.
Team News
Everton have a few injury issues this week, with Abdoulaye Doucoure having still not recovered from his hamstring problem. Idrissa Gueye was forced off with an injury against the Spurs and so his availability is doubtful.
Meanwhile, Manchester City will be hoping Rodri is available for selection after he sustained a knee injury against Fluminense.
Everton vs Manchester City predicted line-ups
Everton: Pickford; Patterson, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Gueye, Onana; Harrison, Garner, McNeil; Calvert-Lewin.
Manchester City: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Gvardiol, Ake; Stones, Kovacic, Bernardo; Foden, Alvarez, Grealish.
Everton vs Manchester City prediction
Everton suffered a 2-1 defeat against Tottenham last week but they have been impressive overall in recent weeks. They will certainly not be easy opponents for Manchester City who have been struggling for form in the English top flight, despite the Club World Cup success.
We believe the two teams will play out a draw at Goodison Park on Wednesday.
Everton 1-1 Manchester City
