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Manchester City return to Premier League action this Sunday with one clear goal. They want to keep the pressure on Arsenal in the title race. Standing in their way is a confident Crystal Palace side enjoying one of the strongest periods in their history.
The match is more than just a league fixture. It is also a rematch of last season’s FA Cup final, where Palace stunned City with a 1-0 victory to claim the first major trophy in their history. With both clubs in good form, this weekend’s clash has all the signs of a high-intensity contest.
Crystal Palace’s Momentum Continues
Crystal Palace have not slowed down since their Wembley triumph. Under Oliver Glasner, the team has added the Community Shield, made a push for Champions League qualification, and even started their first European campaign in the Conference League.
Their recent run shows impressive resilience. After a frustrating home loss to Manchester United, Palace bounced back by defeating Burnley and Fulham away from home. They then delivered a strong 3-0 win against Shelbourne in Europe.
Even with uncertainty around Glasner’s future and ongoing squad-building issues, Palace continue to rise.
Manchester City Looking to Close the Gap
Pep Guardiola’s side also enter this fixture in strong form. They cut Arsenal’s lead after the Gunners slipped at Aston Villa, and City responded with a dominant 3-0 win against Sunderland to reclaim second place.
City also earned a big confidence boost from a 2-1 victory away at Real Madrid in the Champions League. With four straight wins across competitions, City look like they are back in full rhythm.
A win on Sunday would keep the title pressure firmly on Arsenal, who play Wolves the night before.
Match Details
Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025
Kick-off: 2pm GMT
Venue: Selhurst Park
Where to Watch
TV: Sky Sports Premier League (coverage from 12:30pm GMT)
Live Stream: Sky Go app
Live Blog: Standard Sport will provide minute-by-minute updates on matchday.
Team News
Crystal Palace
Injuries are starting to take a toll on Palace. Only 15 senior players traveled to Ireland for their last European match.
- Daniel Munoz is out for up to six weeks after a knee injury that requires surgery.
- Ismaila Sarr remains doubtful with an ankle issue but is still expected to join Senegal for AFCON.
- Jean-Philippe Mateta is being monitored as he recovers from a knee problem.
- Jaydee Canvot has been ill, while Cheick Doucoure, Chadi Riad, and Caleb Kporha remain sidelined.
Manchester City
City will hope Rodri is ready to return after missing eight games with a hamstring injury. However:
- Mateo Kovacic is out.
- John Stones will also miss the match.
Match Prediction
Both teams are in good form, and this could easily be one of the standout fixtures of the weekend.
Palace fear no one, especially after beating City in the FA Cup final earlier this year. However, their injuries come at a bad time, especially with key players like Sarr and Mateta not at full strength.
City have bounced back strongly from their recent dip and have been scoring freely again. While their defense still shows gaps at times, their attack continues to overwhelm teams.
Prediction: Manchester City to win 3-1.
Head-to-Head Record
- Crystal Palace wins: 18
- Manchester City wins: 39
- Draws: 17
Their last league meeting at Selhurst ended 2-2. Palace won the FA Cup final 1-0, but City took the Etihad match 5-2.
Match Odds (via Betfair)
- Crystal Palace to win: 3/1
- Manchester City to win: 5/6
- Draw: 29/10
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