The Premier League’s top team Manchester City host Southampton on Sunday as they go in search of their ninth win.
Pep Guardiola’s Cityzens have had a great week as they defeated Tottenham on Monday night at Wembley before beating Fulham in the EFL Cup on Thursday. Manchester City are flying high and should have little difficulty against Southampton at the Etihad.
Despite winning against Fulham in the EFL Cup, Manchester City were dealt a blow with Kevin De Bruyne picking up another injury. The Belgian missed 10 matches and only returned in mid-October. He limped off against Fulham and there were concerns he re-injured his knee ligaments. However, it appears to be the other knee that is now injured.
Southampton are just two points above the relegation zone. The Saints are set for another season battling for Premier League survival. Despite making several positive personnel moves in the summer, Southampton just haven’t had the quality to pick up wins this term. Mark Hughes’ team have struggled in front of goal scoring just six times, which is the second fewest in the Premier League. Southampton haven’t scored a single goal in their last five league matches.
Summer signing Danny Ings has scored 50 percent of Southampton’s goals this season. However, Ings cannot be expected to keep the Saints up alone. His track record with injury and scoring enough goals to prevent relegation are not good. Hughes needs his players to step up and not expect Ings to carry them through the season.
Manchester City have been dominant against the league’s lesser sides. Their only blemishes on their record were draws against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Liverpool. Five-nil scorelines have been common this season for Guardiola’s team and Southampton could be on the receiving end of a blowout.
Leading sportsbooks have Manchester City as massive favourites going into Sunday’s game at the Etihad. Based on their recent head to head results, there is little wonder why Southampton are underdogs. Manchester City have won four of their last six games against Southampton in all competitions. The Saints’ only win came in 2016 at home. Manchester City have won their last three meetings with Southampton.
Guardiola's side has seen over 2.5 goals scored in 20 of their last 23 league home games. Meanwhile, the team’s defence has kept a clean sheet in their last six straight matches.
Manchester City will have few issues defeating Southampton on Sunday. The Cityzens could route them with a big score just like they did Cardiff City and Burnley. Those fixtures featured 5-0 scorelines in favour of Manchester City.