Everton vs Manchester City: Match Preview

As May rolls around in the 2026 Premier League season, Everton host Manchester City at their shiny new Hill Dickinson Stadium, and it's shaping up as a classic mismatch. City, chasing that elusive title, trail Arsenal by three points but they've got a game in hand to make things interesting. And with Everton sitting comfortably in mid-table, this could be a day where the Toffees try to play spoilers.

Beto's back from concussion, which might give Everton a bit of an edge up front, but they're dealing with key absences that hurt. Jarrad Branthwaite and Jack Grealish are out for the season, leaving gaps in defense and attack that could prove costly. Over on the City side, injuries are mounting too—Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and Rodri are all sidelined, though Rodri might just sneak back for this one. Still, that's a lot of defensive steel missing for a team that's used to dominating.

Looking at the head-to-head, City's the only one with bragging rights this season after that 2-0 win back in October. They're second in the table with 70 points from 33 games, while Everton languish in 11th on 47 points from 34. Players like Erling Haaland, who's banged in 24 goals, and Rayan Cherki with his 10 assists, make City look like the real deal. For Everton, James Garner and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall have been chipping in with goals, but it's hard to see them troubling a side this polished.

Manchester City's predicted lineup features Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal and Haaland leading the line, which screams attacking threat. I expect City to control the tempo and pile on the pressure, given their form and the fact they've got more at stake in this title run-in. Everton might dig in, but they won't have the tools to keep pace.

As for a prediction, City should edge this one comfortably. They're the favorites, and with Haaland in the mix, anything less would be a shock. And that brings us to the bets—based on the numbers, here's where I'd put my money.