Burnley vs Manchester City prediction 22.04.2026 | English Premier League

Burnley enter this fixture in 19th place with just 20 points from 33 matches, highlighting a campaign defined by inconsistency and defensive fragility. Things are looking particularly bleak for the Clarets, as they have endured a seven-game winless run in the league in recent weeks; worse still, they have suffered three consecutive league defeats since late March. Burnley’s last league win came away at Crystal Palace, more than two months ago.

From a squad perspective, Burnley are dealing with multiple absences. Key players such as Josh Cullen (cruciate ligament), Hannibal Mejbri (hamstring), and Benson (Achilles) are sidelined, significantly weakening both midfield balance and attacking transitions. Additional injuries across defense further disrupt continuity, which is problematic against a high-possession opponent like City.

Manchester City come into this match in second place with 67 points after claiming a crucial 2-1 win over Arsenal at the weekend. Following this win, Pep Guardiola’s side are now firmly in contention to win the league title, cutting the gap at the top to just three points with a game in hand (vs Burnley). 

Three wins in their last four Premier League away fixtures also provide a major confidence boost for City heading into this game - the last time they came away empty-handed on the road was in the opening weeks of the new year, when they lost to Manchester United. Erling Haaland, now on 23 league goals, remains the focal point of their attack and continues to deliver in decisive moments.

In terms of availability, City also have defensive concerns. Rúben Dias is a major doubt due to an ankle injury, while Joško Gvardiol and John Stones are also sidelined. However, their squad depth - particularly in midfield and attack - allows them to maintain structural dominance even with rotations.