Manchester City vs Brentford: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Manchester City come into this match with strong momentum, having secured convincing victories against Swansea and Huddersfield in the previous rounds. Their recent form suggests they will dominate possession and look to exploit Brentford's defence with quick, incisive attacks. The absence of key players like John Stones, Mateo Kovacic, and Rodri might slightly disrupt their usual rhythm. However, their depth and tactical flexibility should still allow them to control the game.

Brentford have shown they can be a formidable opponent in this season's competition, especially after their 5-0 thrashing of Grimsby. Their recent results indicate a team capable of both scoring and defending well, though their draw against Aston Villa suggests they might struggle against top-tier teams. They will likely set up to counter-attack, using the pace of players like Kevin Schade to exploit any gaps left by Manchester City's high defensive line.

Manchester City's recent form in the Carabao Cup has been impressive, with back-to-back wins against Swansea and Huddersfield. These victories highlight their ability to score goals and maintain clean sheets, which bodes well for their upcoming match against Brentford.

However, the absence of key players such as Stones, Kovacic, and Rodri could affect their midfield control and defensive solidity. Despite these injuries, their squad depth should allow them to maintain their high standards and continue their winning streak.

Recent League Cup Results:

• Win: 3-1 vs Swansea (A)

• Win: 2-0 vs Huddersfield (A)

Brentford have shown good form in the League Cup this season, with a convincing win against Grimsby and a solid draw against Aston Villa. Their ability to score five goals in a single match demonstrates their attacking prowess and could pose a threat to Manchester City.

However, their performance against Aston Villa suggests they might struggle against stronger teams. With several players out injured, including Milambo, Carvalho, and Dasilva, Brentford will need to rely on their depth and tactical discipline to compete effectively against Manchester City.

Recent League Cup Results:

• Win: 5-0 vs Grimsby (A)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Aston Villa (H)

• Win: 2-0 vs Bournemouth (A)

The head-to-head record between Manchester City and Brentford shows a competitive rivalry, with Manchester City holding a big edge. In their most recent encounter, Manchester City won 1-0 away at Brentford. In the last five meetings, Manchester City have won four and drawn one. This suggests that while Manchester City are big favourites, Brentford are capable of causing an upset.

Recent Results

• Brentford 0-1 Manchester City (05 Oct 2025) - Premier League

• Brentford 2-2 Manchester City (14 Jan 2025) - Premier League

• Manchester City 2-1 Brentford (14 Sep 2024) - Premier League

• Manchester City 1-0 Brentford (20 Feb 2024) - Premier League

• Brentford 1-3 Manchester City (05 Feb 2024) - Premier League

• Mateo Kovacic (Ankle) - Out

• John Stones (Muscle) - Out

• Jérémy Doku (Muscle) - Out

• Rodri (Lack of Fitness) - Doubt

• Dango Ouattara (International Duty) - Out

• Antoni-Djibu Milambo (Knee) - Out

• Fábio Carvalho (Knee) - Doubt

• Josh Dasilva (Groin) - Doubt

• Reiss Nelson (Knock) - Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Trafford (GK), Lewis (DF), Khusanov (DF), Ake (DF), Nouri (DF), Nico (MF), Mukasa (MF), Bobb (MF), Cherki (MF), Savinho (MF), Marmoush (AT)

Manchester City's predicted lineup suggests a focus on maintaining possession and attacking fluidity, with Nico and Mukasa anchoring the midfield. The absence of key defenders like Stones might necessitate a more cautious approach in defence, with Lewis and Ake relying on their versatility.

• Predicted lineup: Valdimarsson (GK), Arthur (DF), Van den Berg (DF), Pinnock (DF), Henry (DF), Onyeka (MF), Jensen (MF), Lewis-Potter (MF), Damsgaard (MF), Schade (MF), Thiago (AT)

Brentford's predicted lineup suggests a counterattacking strategy, with Schade and Lewis-Potter providing pace on the wings. The absence of several key players might force them to rely more on their defensive solidity, with Van den Berg and Pinnock crucial in thwarting Manchester City's attacks.

• Marmoush vs Van den Berg: This will be a crucial battle between Manchester City's dynamic forward and Brentford's solid defender.

• Mukasa vs Jensen: This midfield duel will be key, with Manchester City's creative midfielder facing off against Brentford's disciplined anchor.

• Bobb (Manchester City): Bobb's pace and dribbling ability make him a constant threat on the wing for Manchester City.

• Schade (Brentford): Ouattara's speed and versatility on the wing could be vital for Brentford's counter-attacking strategy.

Manchester City vs Brentford at 19:30 GMT on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, is being broadcast live for viewers in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Ultra HDR.

Coral is predicting that the score will be Manchester City 3-1 Brentford.

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For the best League Cup outright predictions, explore our guide.

Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.