Analysing Chelsea Ahead of Sunday’s Premier League Clash
Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium for their first home fixture of 2026 as they prepare to face Chelsea in a high-profile Premier League encounter on Sunday 4 January, with kick-off scheduled for 17:30 (UK).
The match comes just days after City’s hard-fought victory away at Sunderland, underlining the demanding nature of the festive schedule. Despite the quick turnaround, Pep Guardiola’s side enter the weekend sitting second in the Premier League, just two points behind leaders Arsenal, and firmly in the title race.
Chelsea, meanwhile, arrive in Manchester amid significant upheaval. The London club dramatically parted ways with head coach Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day, meaning the visitors could approach Sunday’s clash with renewed energy, unpredictability, or tactical changes as they adjust to life without their manager.
Recent Form
Chelsea currently occupy fifth place in the Premier League table, having accumulated 30 points from 19 matches. Their campaign so far includes eight wins, six draws, and five defeats, a return that keeps them in contention for European qualification.
However, recent weeks have proven challenging. Chelsea have managed just one win in their last seven league matches, a run that has slowed their momentum and raised questions about consistency.
On the road, though, they have shown resilience. Four of their league victories have come away from home, with notable wins against West Ham, Nottingham Forest, Tottenham Hotspur, and Burnley, suggesting they are capable of performing in hostile environments.
Preferred Formation and Likely Setup
Under Maresca, Chelsea have almost exclusively operated in a 4-2-3-1 formation, though Sunday’s tactical approach could shift following his departure.
Robert Sánchez has been the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, starting all league matches so far. In defence, Marc Cucurella typically features at left-back, with Malo Gusto on the right. Central defensive roles have been shared, though Trevoh Chalobah has seen the most action, alongside options such as Wesley Fofana, former City defender Tosin Adarabioyo, and Benoît Badiashile.
In midfield, Reece James has increasingly been deployed centrally, often alongside Enzo Fernández. Chelsea will, however, be without Moisés Caicedo, who is suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season.
Further forward, Chelsea boast depth and variety. Options across the attacking midfield and forward roles include Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, Jamie Gittens, Estêvão, Alejandro Garnacho, João Pedro, and Liam Delap, offering pace, creativity, and goal threat.
Head-to-Head Record
Recent history strongly favours Manchester City. City are unbeaten in their last eight Premier League meetings with Chelsea, recording six wins and two draws.
Goals have also rarely been an issue. City have failed to score in just one of their last 22 Premier League games against Chelsea, that solitary blank coming in a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge in December 2018.
Across the Premier League era, the two sides have met 56 times. City have won 20 of those encounters, while Chelsea have claimed victory on 27 occasions. Home advantage has historically offered little margin, with City winning 12 and losing 13 of the 28 league matches played at Maine Road or the Etihad Stadium.
How Chelsea Defend
Chelsea have conceded 21 goals this season, ranking them sixth among Premier League defences. However, underlying metrics suggest vulnerability.
Their expected goals against (xG) stands at 27.4, indicating that they allow a relatively high quality of chances, even if those opportunities have not always resulted in goals.
Goalkeeper Robert Sánchez has played every league minute and currently ranks seventh in the Premier League for save percentage, stopping 70.3% of shots on target.
Discipline and slow starts have also been issues. Chelsea have conceded five goals in the opening 15 minutes of matches and no Premier League side has received more than their four red cards this season.
Conclusion
Sunday’s clash presents Manchester City with both opportunity and caution. Chelsea arrive amid managerial uncertainty and inconsistent form, yet their squad depth, away record, and attacking talent mean they remain a dangerous opponent. For City, maintaining focus and intensity after a congested schedule will be crucial as they aim to apply pressure on Arsenal and strengthen their title credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Manchester City vs Chelsea being played?
The match takes place on Sunday 4 January, with kick-off at 17:30 (UK) at the Etihad Stadium.
What position are Chelsea in the Premier League?
Chelsea are currently fifth, with 30 points from 19 matches.
Who will be missing for Chelsea?
Moisés Caicedo is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season.
What is City’s recent record against Chelsea?
Manchester City are unbeaten in their last eight Premier League games against Chelsea, winning six and drawing two.
