Manchester City are back in Premier League action tonight as they host Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium in a must-win clash. With their title hopes hanging by a thread, Pep Guardiola's men need all three points to keep the pressure on league leaders Arsenal. If Mikel Arteta's side win their final two matches, the trophy heads to north London—so City must win their remaining three games and hope for a slip-up. Crystal Palace, led by Oliver Glasner, can be tricky opponents, but City know there's no room for error at this stage of the season.
Here's the latest team news and my predicted starting XI for tonight's showdown.
Injury-wise, City are nearly at full strength. The only question marks surround midfield linchpin Rodri and defender Abdukodir Khusanov. Rodri has missed the last four matches with a groin issue, while Khusanov sat out the 3-0 win over Brentford after picking up a knock in the dramatic 3-3 draw with Everton. Guardiola confirmed both players are feeling better, but it remains to be seen if they'll feature tonight—whether from the start or off the bench.
Rotation could be on the cards, though. With the FA Cup final against Chelsea looming on Saturday, Guardiola might shuffle his pack to keep key players fresh for Wembley. Don't be surprised to see some changes in the starting XI, as City balance their Premier League push with the chance to lift silverware at the weekend. Whatever lineup takes the pitch, the message is clear: three points are non-negotiable.
