Brentford vs Manchester City
Premier League
Monday
5th February 2024
Gtech Community Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Premier League fixture between Brentford and Manchester City.
Brentford vs Manchester City: Preview
Brentford form analysis
Brentford’s form over these games has followed a consistent pattern – promising starts being undermined by defensive vulnerabilities. This was evident when, despite Lewis-Potter’s opener, they conceded twice late on to lose 2-1 at home to Villa. Their defensive issues were then ruthlessly exposed as Wolves put four past them in their next game, with Wissa’s goal a mere consolation. Brentford again struck first away at Palace through Lewis-Potter, but familiar struggles ensued as they collapsed to lose 3-1.
The same problems persisted when they beat Forest 3-2 despite twice losing the lead – a classic Brentford performance of scintillating attack but concerning defense. Their last game encapsulated their Jekyll and Hyde form, as after Maupay’s early goal they were pegged back and defeated 3-2 by Spurs, despite Toney’s brief fightback. So while Brentford continue showing their attacking threat through the likes of livewire Lewis-Potter and talisman Toney, Thomas Frank must resolve his side’s defensive woes for them to translate exciting play into improved results.
Manchester City form analysis
Manchester City’s form over this period has showcased their champion mentality, responding well to setbacks within games to grind out results. This was evident when they drew 2-2 at home to Crystal Palace – the Eagles canceling out Grealish and Lewis’s goals to earn a point. However, City bounced back with an impressive 3-1 win away at Everton, overturning Harrison’s opener through a Foden strike and penalties from summer signing Alvarez and Bernardo. They carried this into a comfortable 2-0 dispatching of Sheffield United, goals from Rodri and Alvarez restoring normal service.
City demonstrated their resilience next in dramatic late 3-2 comeback win away at Newcastle – goals from Isak and GordonTwice overturning City’s lead before Haaland’s replacement Bobb snatched a winner. This ability to react was evident again in comprehensively beating Burnley 3-1 in their last game, with Alvarez bagging a brace before Rodri added a third to seal victory despite a late consolation. So while defensive vulnerabilities remain at times, City’s veteran experience allows them to dig deep when required to grind out results.
