Manchester City vs West Ham

For just the third time in the last 11 years, the Premier League title race will be decided on the final day, with reigning champions Manchester City looking to retain their crown at home against West Ham United on Sunday afternoon. Pep Guardiola's men are just 90 minutes away from a slice of English football history, but the Hammers will endeavor to spoil their Etihad party in a contest that will mark David Moyes's swansong.

Match Preview

Manchester City’s quest for the title has been marked by an impressive 22-game unbeaten league run, including 18 victories and just four draws over the past five months. This incredible form has set the stage for the Citizens to potentially make history, achieving something no English team has done before—winning the Premier League for the fourth consecutive season.

City’s latest victory, a 2-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur, highlighted their resilience and depth. Erling Haaland’s brace brought his goal tally to 27 for the season, but it was substitute goalkeeper Stefan Ortega who emerged as an unlikely hero, making crucial saves to keep City's title hopes intact.

Despite the relentless pursuit by Arsenal, who have dropped just four points in their 17 league games of 2024, Man City sits at the top of the table with 88 points, two clear of the second-placed Gunners. A victory on Sunday will see City crowned champions, while a draw or even a loss might suffice if Arsenal fails to secure a win against Everton.

City’s dominance in recent years is unparalleled, having won five of the last six Premier League titles, including each of the last three. The arrival of Pep Guardiola has been pivotal in transforming City into a powerhouse, and his commitment to staying on for at least another season has been a boost for the club.

West Ham’s Challenge

West Ham United, guaranteed to finish ninth this season, will miss out on European qualification. Their campaign has been a mixed bag, highlighted by a late comeback victory against Luton Town, which saw James Ward-Prowse, Tomas Soucek, and youngster George Earthy score to secure a 3-1 win.

David Moyes's second stint as West Ham manager will conclude on Sunday. Although Moyes is realistic about the challenge, he aims to end his tenure on a high note. The Scotsman has had a notable managerial record against City, having won more games against them than any other club except Fulham.

Historically, West Ham’s visits to the Etihad have been challenging, with the Hammers winning only once and drawing once in their 17 top-flight visits. They have also conceded at least one goal in all these encounters, making Sunday’s task even more daunting.

Team News

Manchester City’s goalkeeper Ederson is out for the season due to a fractured eye socket, which means Stefan Ortega will start. Kevin De Bruyne is expected to be fit despite an Achilles knock. The back four of Kyle Walker, Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol is likely to remain, though Nathan Ake and John Stones are on standby.

Guardiola might keep the midfield and attack unchanged unless De Bruyne is not fit to start, in which case Jeremy Doku or Jack Grealish could feature, with Phil Foden moving to a number 10 role behind Haaland.

Foden, who recently won the Premier League’s Player of the Season and FWA Footballer of the Year, will be a key player. His season tally stands at 17 goals and eight assists, underscoring his influence.

For West Ham, center-back duo Nayef Aguerd and Konstantinos Mavropanos are doubtful but will be assessed. Kalvin Phillips, on loan from City, is ineligible and nursing a calf strain. Edson Alvarez may be recalled to the midfield, potentially at the expense of either Soucek or Ward-Prowse.

Jarrod Bowen, with 16 Premier League goals, will lead West Ham’s attack alongside Mohammed Kudus, Michail Antonio, and Lucas Paqueta, who has been linked with a move to City.