Battle of the baldies: Pep Guardiola poses a difficult challenge for his apprentice Enzo Maresca

Battle of the baldies: Pep Guardiola poses a difficult challenge for his apprentice Enzo Maresca

Eric Munene 09:30 - 18.08.2024

Chelsea have failed to win in 9 of their previous meetings with Manchester City

Chelsea begins their Premier League campaign with a challenging fixture against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues, under new manager Enzo Maresca, have endured a turbulent summer. Maresca, the fourth permanent head coach in Todd Boehly's two-year reign, faces the tough task of restoring order.

Chelsea's pre-season form has been lackluster, with only one win from six matches (D2, L3). Yet, the pressures of the opening fixture may spark a much-needed turnaround.

Chelsea's recent record against City has been dismal. Since their triumph in the 2021 Champions League final, Chelsea has not won any of their last nine meetings with Manchester City (D2, L7), failing to score in seven of those encounters. This run will weigh heavily on Chelsea’s morale as they look to reverse their fortunes.

Manchester City, meanwhile, arrives at Stamford Bridge with high confidence following their Community Shield victory over Manchester United.

Pep Guardiola’s side is seeking to extend their unprecedented dominance with a fifth consecutive Premier League title.

They have excelled in season openers, winning 12 of their last 13 (L1), with their only defeat coming against Tottenham in 2021.

Despite facing a hearing next month regarding alleged breaches of Premier League rules, City is focused on maintaining their formidable form.

Key players to watch include Chelsea’s new signing Pedro Neto, who impressed at Wolves last season with eight direct goal contributions in his first ten league appearances (G1, A7).

For City, Bernardo Silva, who finished last season strongly with four assists in his final four matches and scored against United last weekend, will be a key figure.

Historically, Chelsea excels in opening fixtures, having secured the most points in the Premier League’s first round (67).

This stat might offer a glimmer of hope for the Blues as they prepare for this high-stakes clash.

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