Match preview

Everton’s momentum has stalled after a strong run in which David Moyes’ side collected ten points from five games. Their recent defeats have been especially painful: a last-gasp loss to Liverpool, decided by Virgil van Dijk deep into stoppage time, followed by a 1-2 setback against West Ham, where Callum Wilson struck late to seal the result.

Despite the dip, Everton remain within touching distance of the top six, but their inability to see out matches has become a serious concern. The return of Beto, now cleared after a concussion, could provide a timely lift in attack—he had contributed four goals and an assist in his last three outings before the injury. With Jack Grealish and Jarrad Branthwaite unavailable, Moyes will be relying on fresh attacking impetus to make the difference.

Manchester City, on the other hand, resume action in ominous form as they push for the title. Pep Guardiola’s men have won six straight matches across all competitions, conceding just twice in that stretch. Narrow victories over Burnley (1-0) in the league and Southampton (2-1) in the FA Cup highlight their ability to secure results even without dominating performances.

There are still some selection concerns for City, particularly around Rodri, while Gvardiol and Rúben Dias remain sidelined. Nevertheless, their squad depth ensures minimal disruption, with players like Erling Haaland, Jérémy Doku, Bernardo Silva, and Nico González—fresh off a stunning long-range goal in the cup—offering plenty of attacking threat against a compact Everton side.

Probable lineups

Everton: Pickford, O’Brien, Keane, Tarkowski, Mykolenko, Garner, Gueye, McNeil, Dewsbury-Hall, Ndiaye, Beto.

Manchester City: Donnarumma, Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Riley, Silva, Gonzalez, Semenyo, Cherki, Doku, Haaland.

Match facts and head-to-head

Manchester City have won their last six matches in all competitions and are unbeaten in 11 Premier League games.

Everton are winless in their last 17 league meetings with City.

Pep Guardiola has never lost to David Moyes in the Premier League (12 wins, 3 draws).

Live Everton vs Manchester City - English Premier League