Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has tipped Saturday’s opponents Chelsea, the 3/4 favourites, to “win the Premier League title easily” this season (City 21/10, draw 9/4, Chelsea 6/5).
Carlo Ancelotti’s men make the trip to Eastlands for Saturday’s early kick-off in fantastic form although they did blot their copybook with a Carling Cup defeat to Newcastle in midweek.
Ancelotti elected to give some of his stars the night off but the XI still featured the likes of John Terry, Nicolas Anelka and Salomon Kalou alongside some youngsters and fringe players.
The Italian saw his side reduced to 10 men but only through injury when all three substitutions had been made so he was happy with the performance as Chelsea came back from 3-1 down to draw 3-3, before eventually losing 4-3.
Injuries are a problem for City as well – with Saturday’s hosts able to call on just three defenders who are described as fully fit.
Mancini is definitely without Micah Richards (hamstring) while there will be late decisions taken on Joleon Lescott (groin) and Jerome Boateng (knee).
But it is Mancini’s apparent concession of the title to Chelsea that is sure to raise a few eyebrows at Old Trafford and the Emirates.
“Chelsea are the best team in the Premier League at the moment,” said Mancini. “They are probably going to win the Premier League title easily.
“They are a strong team, who have been playing together for many years.
“They have a fantastic manager and they have worked to reach this situation.”
Chelsea have won all of their Premier League games this season, scoring 21 goals and conceding just one in the process (Chelsea 17/10 – To Keep A Clean Sheet).
But they travel north mindful of the fact City did the double over them last season when they backed up a 2-1 win at Eastlands with a 4-2 victory at Stamford Bridge at the end of February.
Chelsea will again be without England midfielder Frank Lampard following hernia surgery and he is joined on the sidelines by striker Salomon Kalou (thigh) and midfielders Yossi Benayoun (calf) and Gael Kakuta (back).
Bet on the World Cup and get £200. Click here to visit Bet365 and claim your free money.