Man City v Chelsea: Five key battles

Chelsea travel to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday to face Manchester City in a game which could provide an early indication of where the Premier League trophy might end up come May. Here are five potentially key battles we think might go a long way to determining who has the upper hand this weekend.

Branislav Ivanovic v Raheem Sterling
A Chelsea transfer target prior to his move to Manchester City, Sterling caused problems for the Blues while playing for Liverpool – not least when scoring against them in last season’s League Cup semi-final.

The Harlesden-raised Sterling played on the left against West Brom so could well be pitted against Ivanovic, who is one of Chelsea’s most influential players, providing constant drive on the right-hand side. But bombing forward means he can be troubled defensively and he certainly struggled against Swansea last weekend so he will need to improve on that display.

Sterling caused Chelsea some problems during his Liverpool days
Sterling caused Chelsea some problems during his Liverpool days

Nemanja Matic v Yaya Toure
Both teams boast fantastic attacking players, but whose midfield enforcer can most impose himself could be crucial. Both Matic and Toure have strength and mobility in abundance as well as an ability to create.

Diego Costa v Vincent Kompany
Costa, assuming he is fit enough to play, will encounter a City captain who has started the season in very good form. It’s likely to be an intriguing tussle.

Ivanovic's goal gave Chelsea victory at the Etihad the season before last
Ivanovic’s goal gave Chelsea victory at the Etihad the season before last

Sergio Aguero v Asmir Begovic
Deadly finisher Aguero wasn’t in the starting line-up against West Brom but has been tipped to return on Sunday. With Thibaut Courtois suspended, summer signing Begovic is therefore in line for a real test of whether he is a suitable replacement for Petr Cech.

Jose Mourinho v Manuel Pellegrini
There’s no love lost between these two and Mourinho seems to be able to outsmart the City boss as well as get under his skin. Chelsea’s 1-0 win at City in February last year was largely down to a tactical masterclass by the manager, who will be looking for more of the same this time around.

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