City Eye Top Spot as Struggling Hammers Visit Etihad

Manchester City aim to leapfrog Arsenal at the English Premier League summit this Saturday, 20 December, as they host a floundering West Ham United at Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England.

Pep Guardiola’s men are in relentless form, chasing a seventh straight victory across all competitions. Conversely, the visitors find themselves in the relegation zone and are winless in five league outings.

The historical data offers little comfort for the Hammers, who have failed to beat City in 19 consecutive top-flight meetings. However, the champions are juggling a growing injury list; Oscar Bobb recently joined Rodri and John Stones on the sidelines.

Despite these setbacks, City’s depth remains formidable. Rayan Cherki has been particularly influential, while Erling Haaland remains a perennial threat to a West Ham defence that has conceded 32 goals this term.

For Nuno Espirito Santo, the stakes are high, as “defeat on Saturday would therefore guarantee their place in the relegation zone at Christmas.” With Arsenal facing a tricky trip to Everton later in the day, City know a win provides a massive psychological edge.

Should the Gunners stumble, the Citizens could find themselves leading the pack heading into the festive fixtures.

Image Credit: Source