⛅️ Friday Forecast: Manchester derby, brilliant Blues and xG madness | OneFootball

After another batch of midweek fixtures, Premier League football returns to our lives with some tasty fixtures in store.

Here’s what to look out for …

Game of the weekend 🔥

Manchester City v Manchester United

This section almost wrote itself! The seemingly indestructible Manchester City host neighbours Manchester United in what could’ve been a really mouthwatering tie if it were six weeks ago.

After their 1-1 draw against West Brom on December 15, City have won their last 21 games in all competitions, swatting every opponent aside with the cleanest of clean sheets, inverted full backs and no strikers.

Meanwhile, United have struggled. There was even talk of a potential title charge but five draws in their last seven games have silenced those claims, with goals drying up despite their strong attacking options.

With City 14 points clear and practically lifting the title already, this one is all about pride and bragging rights. And even through Solskjaer has bested Pep before, we only see this result going one way.

🔮 Our prediction: Man City 2-0 Man Utd

Too close to call 🤔

Chelsea v Everton

No pressure guys, but this match could have a major impact on the top four face. Thomas Tuchel’s surprisingly steady Chelsea host Everton with just one point separating both sides before kick-off.

So what to make of the Blues? They are unbeaten under their new manager and extremely tight defensively, but going forward they haven’t pieced everything together yet and underwhelmed in against Southampton and Man Utd before beating Liverpool on Thursday.

And Everton! Carlo Ancelotti has brought strength and experience to this side, and are undoubtedly top four contenders, even if they do rely on individual magic from Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison.

Considering what’s at stake and the previous trend of results, we’re expecting a cagey, low-scoring game with both sides desperate not to lose. Everton are good on the road, though, so keep your eyes peeled.

🔮 Our prediction: Chelsea 1-1 Everton

Potential upset 😰

Brighton v Leicester

We’re calling it now. The xG gods will deliver for Brighton against an injury-hit Leicester on Saturday.

Those who have watched Graham Potter’s side this season will know about their ridiculous performance v results swing, although missing two penalties in one game doesn’t exactly help your chances.

Leicester have lost James Maddison, Harvey Barnes and Jonny Evans in recent weeks, taking just one point in their last two games. Could their top four chances be hampered?

The Seagulls haven’t won in four but it wasn’t long ago where they beat Liverpool, Tottenham and Leeds. Leicester could well be their next victims.

🔮 Our prediction: Brighton 1-0 Leicester

🔥 Your Fantasy Football captain should be …

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

After being rested during Arsenal’s 3-1 win over Leicester, a fresh Bukayo Saka will be raring to go against Burnley.

Saka has nine direct goal contributions in 11 appearances since moving to right wing and despite more senior options, makes the Gunners tick going forward.

With Burnley exerting themselves in a hard-fought midweek draw, the teenager looks set to wreak havoc yet again.