After booking their place in the League Cup semi-finals, Manchester City return their focus to the Premier League as they host West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium. Read our preview for the Manchester City vs West Ham United match.
City begin the round second in the table, while the Hammers are struggling in 18th place. Read on for our full match preview and prediction.
MatchPlug brings you the latest odds, team news, and betting insights for Manchester City vs West Ham United.
Betting Preview for Manchester City vs West Ham United
● Venue: Etihad Stadium
● Date: Saturday 20 December, 2026
● Time: 16:00 PM
● Teams: Manchester City vs West Ham United
● Odds: As provided by 1XBet
Betting on Manchester City
● 1XBet Spread: -2
● 1XBet Moneyline: 1.20
● 1XBet Over/Under: Over 3.5
Manchester City come into this fixture in excellent form, having secured their place in the League Cup semi-finals with a victory over Brentford. That result extended their winning streak to six straight games across all competitions.
Defensively, Pep Guardiola’s side have also shown improvement, keeping clean sheets in three of their last four matches. City sit second in the Premier League on 34 points, firmly in the title race, and will be eager to keep pressure on the league leaders.
The Cityzens have been ruthless going forward, scoring 15 goals in their last five matches, and their home form at the Etihad remains among the best in the division.
Betting on West Ham United
● 1XBet Spread: +2
● 1XBet Moneyline: 9.50
● 1XBet Over/Under: Over 3.5
West Ham United arrive in Manchester in a precarious position, sitting 18th in the league with just 13 points, a massive 21 points behind City. The Hammers are winless in their last five Premier League matches, losing two during that run.
David Moyes’ side have also struggled badly in this fixture, having not beaten Manchester City in over a decade. Defensive frailties have been a recurring issue, especially against elite opposition — West Ham have conceded three or more goals in each of their last three meetings with City when playing away.
While the visitors have managed to score in four of their last five games, containing City’s attack looks like a daunting task.
MatchPlug Prediction for Manchester City vs West Ham United
Manchester City are in relentless form and continue to score freely while tightening up defensively. West Ham, meanwhile, arrive short on confidence and struggling near the foot of the table, with a poor recent record both overall and in this fixture.
Given City’s scoring power and West Ham’s defensive vulnerabilities, this matchup points toward another high-scoring home victory.
Final Prediction: Manchester City to win
