Alex Iwobi and Calin Bassey's Fulham are seeking revenge against the reigning champions after they suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat in the reverse fixture at the Etihad Stadium back in September. On the other hand, Manchester City continue their pursuit of a record fourth consecutive Premier League title when they travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on Saturday lunchtime.
This preview will take you through the upcoming fixture and offer a prediction for the Fulham vs Manchester City clash.
Quick stats
- City have won their last 15 games against Fulham in all competitions – the joint-longest winning run any team has recorded against another in English football history.
- Erling Haaland has netted five goals in three Premier League matches against Fulham, scoring a penalty in each of those games. No player has ever scored from the spot on four successive Premier League appearances against a single opponent.
- Only Liverpool (24 times) have hit the woodwork more often than Fulham (18) in the Premier League this season, while Fulham’s own woodwork has also been struck more than that of any other team (19 times).
- A run of just one win from seven Premier League games (three draws, three defeats) has surely put a top-half finish beyond Fulham, who are now jostling for position with Brighton and Hove Albion, Wolves and a resurgent Crystal Palace in mid-table.
Match preview
The Premier League title race takes center stage this Saturday as Manchester City travels to Craven Cottage for an early kickoff against Fulham. City, buoyed by their ominous form, has a golden opportunity to exert further pressure on Arsenal at the top.
Pep Guardiola's men have been in imperious form, winning their last six league games and dismantling Wolves 5-1 last time out. Erling Haaland, back to his devastating best, bagged a four-goal masterclass, reminding everyone of his lethal finishing. This dominant run echoes City's historical prowess in the season's closing stages.
Fulham seems unlikely to be the team to derail City's title charge. The Citizens boast a remarkable 15-game winning streak against the Cottagers in all competitions, the joint-longest such run in English football history. Haaland, in particular, relishes facing Fulham, having netted five goals in their three league meetings, including a hat-trick in the reverse fixture.
Another key player for City has been Rodri. His two assists against Wolves, including a pinpoint cross for Haaland's header, showcased his growing influence. This recent surge in assists follows a period without any, highlighting his development as a creative force. Notably, City remains unbeaten in 47 Premier League games where Rodri features, putting him in elite company with legendary defenders like Sol Campbell, Kolo Touré, and Thierry Henry.
Unlike previous weeks, City enjoys a clean bill of health. Players like Rúben Dias, John Stones, and Jérémy Doku could be pushing for starts after being rested last time out. This depth in Guardiola's squad bodes well for their title aspirations.
Fulham, on the other hand, finds itself facing a different battle. With only one win in their last seven Premier League games, their hopes of finishing in the top half seem to be fading. Last week's goalless draw with Brentford further highlighted their attacking woes.
Rodrigo Muniz, once a prolific scorer, has managed just one goal in his last six appearances. This coincides with Fulham's overall struggles in front of goal, which sees them hitting the woodwork more frequently than any other team in the league (18 times).
While City hasn't quite replicated their defensive dominance of last season away from home, they still pose a significant threat offensively. They average the most shots attempted on their travels (17.8) in the league. Muniz, a high-volume shooter, could find opportunities against a slightly looser City defense.
Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi is expected to play further forward for Fulham alongside Andreas Pereira and Willian. Tosin Adarabioyo, a reported target for the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), seems uncertain about his future at the club after reportedly rejecting a contract extension and being left out of the squad for the last two games. Iwobi’s compatriot, Calvin Bassey is also set to continue in central defense for the London-based side.
This clash promises an intriguing encounter. Can Manchester City tighten their grip on the title race, or can Fulham pull off an upset and dent the Citizens' aspirations?
Fulham vs Manchester City H2H – Last 10 games
September 2023: Manchester City 5-1 Fulham
April 2023: Fulham 1-2 Manchester City
November 2022: Manchester City 2-1 Fulham
February 2022: Manchester City 4-1 Fulham
March 2021: Fulham 0-3 Manchester City
December 2020: Manchester City 2-0 Fulham
January 2020: Manchester City 4-0 Fulham
March 2019: Fulham 0-2 Manchester City
November 2018: Manchester City 2-0 Fulham
September 2018: Manchester City 3-0 Fulham
Fulham vs Manchester City prediction
The Premier League trophy seems firmly grasped in Manchester City‘s hands, and a slip-up against Fulham this weekend appears highly unlikely. While Arsenal are breathing down their necks, City have a golden opportunity to snatch the top spot before the Gunners face a potentially tricky test against Manchester United on Sunday.
Historically, City are notorious for maintaining their momentum during this crucial phase of the season. Their recent form has been nothing short of dominant, recording six consecutive Premier League victories, with most of them featuring an offensive explosion of at least four goals. Their dismantling of Wolves with a resounding 5-1 scoreline perfectly exemplifies their current state – a resurgent Erling Haaland leading the charge with a four-goal masterclass.
While an FA Cup final clash with Manchester United awaits them later in May, City's focus is laser-sharp on the Premier League following their Champions League exit in the quarter-finals. Boasting a fully fit squad, they're primed to showcase their ruthless efficiency once more at Craven Cottage.
Fulham, on the other hand, haven't quite replicated their early season home invincibility. Their recent form paints a concerning picture – winless in their last three and only one victory in their last seven outings across all competitions. With little left to play for beyond securing a top-half finish, Fulham are unlikely to pose a significant threat to City's title ambitions. Expect a comfortable win for the Citizens as they tighten their grip on the Premier League title race.
