Manchester City vs Chelsea: 3 key battles to look out for | Premier League 2022-23
Manchester City will take on Chelsea at the Etihad stadium in Sunday's (May 21) marquee Premier League fixture.
The Cityzens have already been crowned champions, with Arsenal's defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday confirming their fifth league title in six seasons. City are currently on 85 points from 35 games, four ahead of the Gunners - who only have one more game to play.
Chelsea on the other hand, have massively underperformed this season and they have only registered 43 points from 35 Premier League games. They currently occupy the 12th position in the league's standings.
On that note, let's look at three key individual battles that could determine the outcome of this encounter.
#3. Kevin De Bruyne vs Enzo Fernandez
Kevin De Bruyne is arguably the most consistent midfielder currently in the league, and his attacking contributions have been significant for Manchester City this season. The Belgian has netted seven goals and have registered the most assists in the league so far (16).
Monitoring his movement in and around the midfield is tough as he could singlehandedly split any team's defensive line. Similarly, his vision in attack is outstanding and it can be stated that Fernandez will have his work cut out.
However, the Argentine midfielder is energetic and his defensive awareness is remarkable. It remains to be seen if he would be able to keep De Bruyne under wraps in this clash.
#2. Raheem Sterling vs Kyle Walker
It can be stated that Raheem Sterling is one of the Blues players that could hurt Pep Guardiola's side in this encounter, and this could be attributed to his experience and familiarity with Manchester City, having featured for them in the past.
Sterling has netted six goals and he has registered three assists in 26 league appearances for Chelsea this season. Monitoring his movement on the flank is tough as he's fast and tricky with the ball at his feet.
It can be stated that Kyle Walker will have to avoid excessive overlapping if he intends to keep Sterling under tabs. However, when you talk of a perfect defensive match, Walker clearly fits the bill as he's also very fast and defensively adept.
Keeping Sterling under wraps will be his primary objective in this encounter.
#1. Erling Haaland vs Thiago Silva
When you talk about dangerous strikers, one of the names that comes to mind is Erling Haaland, as the Norwegian has been clinical in front of goal this season.
Haaland has netted 36 goals and registered seven assists in 33 Premier League appearances so far.
UCL top goal scorer
Haaland - 12
EPL top scorer
Haaland - 36
FA Cup
Haaland 3 Games 3 Goals.
He is him. https://t.co/SIhZ57hEsp
Monitoring his movements in attack is difficult as his vision and finishing prowess is second to none. Haaland's potential presence is a clear indication that Thiago Silva will have his work cut out.
However, in terms of experience, Silva is right up there and his defensive intuition is remarkable as well. It will be fascinating to see who emerges on top in this key battle.