Crystal Palace vs Manchester City prediction 28.08.2026 | Premier League

Crystal Palace managed to secure a place in Europe in the last two seasons by winning the FA Cup and then by winning the Conference League. However, that was under coach Oliver Glasner, who left and Pierre Sage arrived. Over the summer, we believe the team mostly stayed around the same level of quality, but the departure of Lacroix could be a problem based on what we have seen on defense. The Eagles lost 2:0 to Everton, and even though they created a lot of chances, they couldn't convert, while allowing goals fairly easily on the other side of the pitch. 

Central defender Chadi Riad suffered an injury in the previous game against Everton and had to leave the field after 72 minutes. For now, it is unclear what the seriousness of the injury is, but we doubt he will be ready for the City game. On the other hand, Ismaila Sarr, who missed the previous game with a groin problem, is questionable for the upcoming match. 

Manchester City entered the season after Pep Guardiola left and his former assistant, Enzo Maresca, arrived. Many people said that is a big downgrade, but time will tell whether they were right. Thus far, the Citizens have not looked great. Firstly, they lost 3:0 to Arsenal in the Community Shield and then had an underwhelming performance against Bournemouth despite winning 2:1. While they have flashes of greatness at some moments, that was mostly when Cherki was subbed in, and we believe Maresca will soon give him a spot in the starting eleven. 

Only days ago, Savinho left the club and joined Tottenham for 87.7 million euros. And in the coming days, we expect Omar Marmoush to also leave the club and join the Spurs. 

Jeremy Doku will remain sidelined with a calf injury, while Elliot Anderson is questionable with a thigh injury. The young midfielder left the field in the previous game against Bournemouth, but it seems he will be ready for the Crystal Palace game.