Fulham FC vs Manchester City FC, English Premier League 2024-25, Today Match Prediction

Fulham FC vs Manchester City FC Match Prediction & Analysis

Manchester City, currently third in the Premier League, aim to secure Champions League qualification this weekend against Fulham. A win at Craven Cottage guarantees their spot. Even a draw would likely suffice due to their superior goal difference, but a loss could prove disastrous if rivals win.

City's 20 league wins are well short of last season's title-winning tally. While finishing second is a long shot, their focus is solely on securing a top-four finish. Fulham, tenth and out of European contention, have had a solid season. Despite lacking significant motivation, they could finish ninth with a win. City are strong favorites, and a victory will confirm their Champions League berth for next season. 

Head to Head Record - Manchester City boasts a strong head-to-head record against Fulham, winning 67% of their 33 encounters. Their earlier Premier League match this season saw City narrowly win 3-2. Despite Fulham scoring first and making it a close game, City ultimately secured the points, though they were perhaps fortunate given Fulham's threatening chances.

TEAMS PREVIEW

Fulham FC Preview

Fulham's hopes of European football have faded, with four losses in their last six Premier League games. Despite a recent 3-2 away win at Brentford, their home form has faltered, with two consecutive defeats. Under Marco Silva, Fulham have transformed into a solid mid-table side, no longer battling relegation. Silva's success has attracted interest from clubs like Tottenham, hinting at a potential move this summer, especially given Fulham's recent inconsistent results.

Raul Jimenez has been a revelation this season, scoring 12 Premier League goals, a significant improvement since his head injury. He's found the net in his last two games, including opening the scoring against Brentford, earning him Man of the Match. Despite Jimenez's form, Fulham face a tough challenge against Manchester City, having lost their last two home games and typically scoring just one goal against City. 

Fulham's "super-sub" Harry Wilson, who scored the winner against Brentford, will likely start on the bench again. The Cottagers have no new injuries, though Harrison Reed and Reiss Nelson remain sidelined. Raul Jimenez highlighted the impact of their substitutes, emphasizing the team's depth. Fulham recently extended contracts for Wilson, Adama Traore, and Jimenez until June 2026. Timothy Castagne and Rodrigo Muniz also remain out.

Fulham Probable Starting Lineup : Leno (GK); Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson; Lukic, Berge; Wilson, Cairney, Iwobi; Jimenez

Manchester City FC Preview

Manchester City endured a challenging November and December, securing only five points from nine games, which hampered their title bid. However, they've rebounded strongly, now unbeaten in nine Premier League matches, including a recent 3-1 win over Bournemouth. Despite a surprising FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace, City's league form has been impressive, earning 41 points in their last 20 games, second only to Liverpool. 

On the road, City has been less consistent, with six league losses this season, and only scoring in one of their last four away league matches. Bernardo Silva has been a key performer this spring, consistently rated highly and showcasing his versatility with four goals and four assists this season.  This match marks an emotional farewell for Kevin De Bruyne, playing his final Premier League game for Manchester City. With no new contract, his future lies outside the Premier League, with Chicago Fire and Napoli as likely destinations. 

While John Stones is out, Erling Haaland is fit, though still seeking his first goal since returning from injury. Rodri is back from injury and will likely start on the bench. Nico Gonzalez, who scored midweek, is expected to start in Mateo Kovacic's absence due to suspension. Pep Guardiola has issued an ultimatum to the club, threatening to leave if squad size isn't reduced. 

Manchester City Starting Lineup: Ederson (GK); Nunes, Dias, Akanji, Gvardiol; Bernardo, Gundogan; Savinho, De Bruyne, Marmoush; Haaland