Manchester City vs Crystal Palace: Premier League Match Preview

Manchester City host Crystal Palace at Etihad Stadium, Manchester, on 13 May 2026 in Premier League Regular Season - 31. City arrive sitting 2nd with 74 points and a goal difference of 40, while Palace are 15th on 44 points with a goal difference of -6.

Manchester City Availability

Manchester City have several concerns but no confirmed absentees.
J. Gvardiol (Broken Leg) is doubtful.
A. Khusanov (Injury) is doubtful.
Rodri (Groin Injury) is doubtful.

All three issues affect City’s defensive structure and midfield balance, but their leading attacking figures remain available. E. Haaland, the league’s top scorer with 26 goals and 8 assists, is set to lead the line, supported creatively by R. Cherki, who has delivered 11 assists and 4 goals.

Crystal Palace Availability

Crystal Palace face a heavier absentee list.
C. Doucoure (Knee Injury) is sidelined.
E. Nketiah (Thigh Injury) is sidelined.
E. Guessand (Knee Injury) is doubtful.
B. Sosa (Injury) is doubtful.

Losing E. Nketiah removes a useful attacking option, while C. Doucoure’s absence weakens midfield protection. However, key striker J. Mateta, who has scored 11 league goals, is available to start.

Impact Summary

Manchester City retain virtually all of their attacking output, with E. Haaland and R. Cherki both available. Crystal Palace, by contrast, lose depth and flexibility in attack and midfield through the absences of E. Nketiah and C. Doucoure, increasing reliance on J. Mateta for goals.