Two teams going through a transition. Two teams jostling for space at the absolute pinnacle of the English Premier League. Chelsea and Manchester City, despite making changes right at the top and embracing a different philosophy, have shown enough pedigree to thwart the drawbacks and tide over them to stake their claim as strong contenders for the title.
The teams start off proceedings this weened and if the preceding action is anything to go by, we are in for a cracker of a contest. With both the teams almost full strength and both the managers having had a fair share of experience, they will be starting off as equals.
Let us take a look at the key battles between the two which will have a bearing on the result.
SERGIO AGUERO VS GARY CAHILL
The Argentine has been in his usual imperious goal scoring form but has struggled for consistency in patches. And after a brace against Burnley last weekend, he will be raring to have a go at the leaders. And the added motivation will be the presence of his closest competitor for the Golden Boot in the form of Diego Costa.
The Chelsea backline has been rock solid conceding just once in the last 7 matches and being the more conservative of the 3 defenders, Cahill will look to nullify Kun.
DIEGO COSTA VS JOHN STONES
The Spaniard is the sole reason Chelsea did not slip down further in the table, which allowed them a swift path to the top when they got their act together. He has looked re-energised and with his mojo back, looks to be a vital factor this season.
He will be at the jittery City defence throughout the match and the City backline has to be in excellent shape and form to deny him. John Stones is likely to come back into the team and will have to deal with the tenacious Costa. Stones has shown his willingness to take risks and it will be interesting to see whether he alters his approach for the game.
ILKAY GUNDOGAN VS N’GOLO KANTÉ
The German has been influential whenever he has played and after getting ample rest over the week and a half, he will likely be included in the crunch match. His poise and awareness of players around him will hold him in good stead. As he showed against Barcelona, he can chip in with goals against any opposition and his late Lampard-esque runs have to be kept in check and given close attention by Kanté.
The ex-Leicester City midfielder has been pretty effective in his role and will play an important part if Chelsea are to neutralise City.
