Manchester City are back in Premier League action tonight as they host Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium in a fixture that could have massive implications for the title race.
Pep Guardiola's side currently sit five points behind league leaders Arsenal, but with a game in hand, every point is crucial at this stage of the season. With just two rounds of fixtures remaining after this weekend, City simply cannot afford to drop points if they want to keep the pressure on the Gunners at the top of the table.
The good news for City fans is that their team is in red-hot form. Guardiola's men are unbeaten in 13 league matches and haven't lost at home in the Premier League since August. They've also won seven of their last eight games across all competitions, including a historic run to a fourth consecutive FA Cup final. However, a 3-3 draw against Everton last time out has handed Arsenal control of their own destiny in the title race.
In team news, there's optimism around two key players. Guardiola confirmed that midfielder Rodri and defender Abdukodir Khusanov are both "better" and will be assessed in training ahead of the match. Rodri has been sidelined since last month's win over Arsenal with a muscular issue, while Khusanov picked up a knock in the draw at Everton. Nathan Ake replaced Khusanov against Brentford at the weekend and could continue alongside former Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in defense.
For Crystal Palace, manager Oliver Glasner has options in attack. Jean-Philippe Mateta could replace Jorgen Strand Larsen up front after scoring off the bench against Everton on Sunday. However, the Eagles will be without forward Eddie Nketiah and midfielder Cheick Doucoure, while neither Borna Sosa nor Evann Guessand are expected to feature despite recent returns to training.
Palace's recent form has been mixed. Their only wins in the last five games have come in Europe, with a two-legged semi-final triumph over Shakhtar Donetsk booking their spot in the Europa Conference League final. It's been a historic first European campaign for the Eagles, who could end their season with silverware.
These two sides last met in December 2025, when City cruised to a 3-0 victory at Selhurst Park. With the title race heating up and European glory on the line for Palace, tonight's clash at the Etihad promises plenty of drama.