Three Key Players to Watch in the Manchester City vs Chelsea Match

24 Jan 2025 ScoreWaves Staff view

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When Manchester City host Chelsea at the Etihad this Saturday, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both sides are navigating their own unique challenges this season, with City eager to regain their dominant form and Chelsea continuing to rebuild under Enzo Maresca. While team tactics and strategies will dominate discussions, it’s often individual brilliance that determines the outcome of such high-profile clashes.so, here are the three players fans should keep an eye on in this blockbuster encounter.

1) Phil Foden (Manchester City)

Phil Foden’s season began quietly, with the midfielder struggling to make the kind of impact fans have come to expect from him. However, the 24-year-old seems to have rediscovered his mojo and is now firing on all cylinders.

In his last five Premier League games, Foden has scored five goals and provided one assist, proving to be the driving force behind Manchester City’s recent revival. His late runs from midfield, coupled with his sharp decision-making in the final third, have made him almost unplayable in recent weeks.

What makes Foden so special isn’t just his technical ability but also his understanding of the game. His movement off the ball has elevated the performances of key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland, creating spaces and opportunities for them to thrive. When Foden is at his best, Manchester City operate like a well-oiled machine, and opponents find it incredibly difficult to contain their fluid attack.

Chelsea’s defense, already weakened by injuries, will have a tough time dealing with Foden’s creativity and instinct for goal. If he continues his red-hot form, expect the England international to play a pivotal role in the outcome of this match.

2) Marc Cucurella (Chelsea)

While Chelsea boasts plenty of star power in players like Jadon Sancho, Cole Palmer, and João Félix, it’s Marc Cucurella’s transformation under Enzo Maresca that has been the most intriguing storyline. The Spanish full-back, who initially struggled to make an impression at Stamford Bridge, has thrived in an unexpected role this season.

Cucurella’s deployment as an inverted full-back has added a new dimension to Chelsea’s gameplay. Far from sticking to traditional wide positions, he frequently drifts into central areas, functioning almost like an attacking No. 8. This tactical tweak has allowed Chelsea to dominate possession in midfield and overload key areas of the pitch, creating more opportunities for their attackers.

With three goal involvements already this season, Cucurella has also showcased his ability to contribute offensively. Whether it’s a precise cross, a clever pass, or even a goal, he’s become a genuine threat going forward. Against City, his ability to exploit pockets of space and disrupt their defensive structure could be crucial.

The match against Manchester City will be a litmus test for Cucurella’s progress. If he can hold his own against City’s relentless pressing and find ways to influence the game, Chelsea might just have the edge they need to cause an upset.

3) Omar Marmoush (Manchester City)

Manchester City made some big moves in the January transfer window, strengthening their squad with additions like Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis. However, the arrival of Omar Marmoush has arguably generated the most excitement among fans. The 25-year-old Egyptian attacker was tearing up the Bundesliga before his move to the Etihad, scoring 15 goals and providing 9 assists in just 17 league games. His incredible output has only been bettered by his compatriot Mohamed Salah.

Marmoush’s blend of pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability makes him a perfect fit for Pep Guardiola’s system. While it’s unlikely that he’ll start against Chelsea, given he’s only just joined the squad, Marmoush could make an impact off the bench. With his ability to exploit tired defenses and deliver moments of magic, the Egyptian could be City’s secret weapon late in the game.

Imagine Marmoush coming on with 20 minutes to go, running at a fatigued Chelsea backline. It’s a scenario Guardiola will relish, and one that could tip the scales in City’s favor. Keep an eye out for Marmoush—his Premier League debut could be the start of something special.

Also Read: Manchester City vs Chelsea Match Prediction, Fantasy Football Tips and Possible Starting Lineups