Manchester City look ahead to a trip to Aston Villa this weekend looking to bounce back after three winless games in a row. 

Pep Guardiola’s side lost 2-1 to rivals Manchester United in their last match where they had a 1-0 lead in the 87th minute.

A Bruno Fernandes penalty and an Amad Diallo winner left City red-faced and frustrated. They have won just one game in their last 11 and the Premier League title is slipping out of their grasp.

They face a Villa side who have won three of their last four games in all competitions, however, they did lose in their last game against Nottingham Forest, who sit one place above City in the league table.

City could be without four players on Saturday with Rodri, Oscar Bobb and Nathan Ake all ruled out due to injury. Meanwhile, Manuel Akanji is a doubt as he is trying to recover from a groin injury.

Pep Guardiola said after their last game against United: “It is discomfort in the area of the pelvis. It doesn’t feel good. He made an incredible effort playing against Bournemouth. He wasn’t even at half of his best, but at the end, he had to step back.”

Manchester City made narrow favourites against Villa

Despite their recent poor form, City are the bookmakers favourites against Aston Villa who are usually strong at home.

According to Oddschecker, City are 23/20 favourites to win, which gives them a 46.5% chance to win the game. Villa are backed to win at 12/5 (29.4%) and a draw is backed at 14/5 (26.3%).

We predict a 1-1 draw in a game where City look much improved from their recent form. Villa could be a very tough test in a hostile Villa Park.

Where to watch City’s trip to Villa Park

The game kicks off at 12.30 pm on Saturday 21 December at Villa Park and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and BT Sport Ultimate.

Highlights of the game will be posted to TNT Sports’ YouTube channel after the game, before extended highlights will be broadcast on BBC One at 10.30 pm for Match of the Day.