Leicester vs Man City: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Leicester City host Manchester City at the King Power Stadium on Sunday, December 29, 2024, in a Premier League clash that sees both teams desperate for a turnaround. While Leicester are mired in the relegation zone after three consecutive defeats, Manchester City’s woeful run of one win in 13 games has left their season hanging by a thread.

Match Details

• Date: Sunday, December 29, 2024
• Kick-off Time: 14:30 GMT / 09:30 ET / 06:30 PT
• Location: King Power Stadium, Leicester, England
• Referee: Michael Oliver
• VAR: Paul Tierney

Recent Form

Leicester (Last 5 Matches)

• Liverpool 3-1 Leicester (Dec 26)
• Leicester 0-3 Wolves (Dec 21)
• Newcastle 4-0 Leicester (Dec 14)
• Leicester 2-2 Brighton (Dec 8)
• Leicester 3-1 West Ham (Dec 3)

Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side has struggled defensively, conceding ten goals in their last three games. Injuries have compounded their issues, leaving the Foxes vulnerable against elite opposition.

Manchester City (Last 5 Matches)

• Man City 1-1 Everton (Dec 26)
• Aston Villa 2-1 Man City (Dec 21)
• Man City 1-2 Man Utd (Dec 15)
• Juventus 2-0 Man City (Dec 11)
• Crystal Palace 2-2 Man City (Dec 7)

Pep Guardiola’s side has fallen to seventh in the Premier League, an unfamiliar position for the reigning champions. Their inability to close out games has been a recurring theme during this poor run.

Head-to-Head Record (Last 5 Matches)

• Leicester: 1 win
• Man City: 4 wins
• Draws: 0

Last Meeting: Man City 3-1 Leicester (April 15, 2023)

Team News

Leicester City

• Out:
  • Mads Hermansen: Groin injury.
  • Wilfred Ndidi: Thigh injury.
  • Ricardo Pereira, Abdul Fatawu: Long-term injuries.
• Doubtful:
  • Jamie Vardy: Knock.
• Key Player: Patson Daka is expected to lead the line in Vardy’s potential absence.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Stolarczyk; Justin, Coady, Vestergaard, Kristiansen; Skipp, Soumare; Ayew, Buonanotte, Mavididi; Daka.

Manchester City

• Out:
  • Ruben Dias: Muscle injury.
  • Rodri, Oscar Bobb: Long-term absentees.
  • John Stones, Kyle Walker: Injuries.
• Doubtful:
  • Matheus Nunes, Ederson: Dealing with knocks.
• Key Player: Erling Haaland will be crucial in breaking Leicester’s porous defense despite missing a penalty against Everton.

Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1):
Ortega; Lewis, Akanji, Ake, Gvardiol; Gundogan; Bernardo, De Bruyne, Foden, Doku; Haaland.

Tactical Battle

Leicester’s Approach

Leicester will rely on their speed in transition to exploit Manchester City’s defensive vulnerabilities. With Patson Daka’s pace and Stephy Mavididi’s creativity, the Foxes will look to capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities.

Manchester City’s Strategy

City will dominate possession, aiming to break down Leicester’s defense with their intricate passing and movement. The return of Kevin De Bruyne provides a much-needed creative spark, while Jeremy Doku’s pace offers a dynamic option on the wing.

Key Players to Watch

Leicester City

• Patson Daka: The striker’s speed and finishing ability will be vital in Leicester’s counter-attacking strategy.
• Mads Hermansen (if fit): Leicester’s standout performer this season, his absence would leave a significant void.

Manchester City

• Erling Haaland: Despite his recent struggles, Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess remains a constant threat.
• Kevin De Bruyne: The midfield maestro’s vision and passing will be crucial in unlocking Leicester’s defense.

Prediction

Manchester City’s poor form has been uncharacteristic, but they have shown flashes of their old dominance. Against a Leicester side struggling with injuries and defensive lapses, City should have enough firepower to secure a much-needed win. Leicester’s transition play may trouble City’s backline, but Guardiola’s side is likely to end the year on a positive note.

Prediction: Leicester 1-3 Manchester City

FAQs

1. What time is Leicester vs. Man City?

The match kicks off at 14:30 GMT / 09:30 ET / 06:30 PT on Sunday, December 29, 2024.

2. Where will the match be played?

The game will take place at the King Power Stadium in Leicester, England.

3. Who are the key players to watch?

For Leicester, Patson Daka and Stephy Mavididi are crucial. For Manchester City, Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne will be key.

4. What is Manchester City’s recent form?

City have struggled, winning just one of their last 13 matches across all competitions.

5. What is Leicester’s recent form?

Leicester have lost their last three Premier League matches, conceding ten goals in the process.