Leicester v Man City: preview, injuries, predicted line-ups

On April 3, Leicester City will host the runaway title contenders and favourites Manchester City. Let’s preview the match and look at injury news.

It feels like an eternity away that Leicester City – at the Etihad – completely dominated Manchester City through fast paced counter-attacking football and three major defensive errors from Manchester City. A 2-5 routing.

The team which beat City the first time were in a 5-4-1, with a back three of Jonny Evans, Caglar Soyuncu, and Daniel Amartey. James Justin and Timothy Castagne took the wing back roles, while Youri Tielemans, Papy Mendy, Dennis Praet, and Harvey Barnes took the midfield roles.

Some of those players are injured or not fully fit, while even better players have also set to make their return. Let’s take a look, shall we?

An on-form Leicester City, and City?

If we listen to the commentators on TV, the Foxes are far worse at home than away from home. This is not entirely inaccurate. However, it is a little preposterous taking into account where the King Power side sit in the table on home points – seventh. Credit to Understat!

It is also true to say that the Foxes have crushed it away from home, sitting first on points away from home, though Manchester City have played a game less. They are second on points away from home and first on home points.

Both teams are bringing in the points. This does not tell the whole picture of how they are playing – bearing in mind Leicester have had unsurmountable injuries.

At the King Power, the East Midlands outfit have accumulated 21.12 in xG (expected goals), actually scoring 25. They have only conceded 18.13 in xGA (expected goals against), and 19 goals.

This means that at home, Leicester City have been a little less ferocious on the attacking front, struggling to break through low blocks and high presses. Be that the result of lethargic performances or the break-up of in-form teams whenever a freshly baked injury comes off the rolling rack.

Brendan Rodgers has still done very well. Nevertheless, Manchester City are better. Away from home, they have accumulated to most xG – 27.53 – and the least xGA – 10.50 – with a goal score line of 28G-8GA. That is ridiculously good.

Man City have dominated the ball, penetrated low blocks, passed around opposition players with ease, and play with such flare and creativity, it is ridiculous how much money can buy you! The combination of fluid attacking tactics, a high press, and a terrified opposition, have given them an immense advantage.