Manuel Akanji has started 16 of the City's 20 matches this term, fewer than only 5 other players. During these appearances, he has averaged 0.81 fouls per game, the highest rate among City players.

Akanji will likely be tasked with marking Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo, who draw 1.47 and 1.1 fouls per game respectively. The Bees have been a force to be reckoned with at home and will no doubt be aggressive in their attacking play, they may be forced to play on the counterattack, which could force Akanji into a cynical foul or two.

With Brentford’s ability to apply sustained pressure and Akanji’s physical defensive style, there’s a strong likelihood he commits at least one foul here.

Brentford have been consistent in winning corners this season, averaging 4.50 per game in the Premier League. Playing at home, where their attacking intent is typically stronger, the Bees should comfortably exceed this line.

They amassed a huge 13 corners against Plymouth at the weekend, and hit a combined 13 across their previous 2 home league fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Arsenal.

City allowed Salford 2 corners in their 8-0 victory on Saturday, so the Bees will fancy their chances of notching 3 or more here.

Manchester City are dominant in attack, averaging a league-high 8.1 corners per game. Their style of play, with sustained possession and relentless pressure, often forces defensive clearances, contributing to their corner count.

Against a Brentford side that allows an average of 6.75 corners per game, City should have no trouble reaching this target.

Erling Haaland has been in excellent form, scoring 16 goals in 20 matches this season. Averaging 4.05 shots per game, with 2.2 of those on target, Haaland consistently finds himself in dangerous positions.

Facing a Brentford defence that concedes 1.75 goals per game and allows 6.3 shots on target, Haaland is well-positioned to add to his goal tally in this match.

Brentford have been a formidable force at home this season, despite a couple of recent blips, with a home record that would place them 2nd in the league if based solely on home performances. Their flexibility in formations and ability to exploit defensive weaknesses have made them tough to beat at the Gtech Community Stadium.

While Man City appear to be regaining form, they have struggled at times this season and have still won just 3 from their last 11 in the league. They have looked particularly weak in midfield since losing Rodri and with Brentford's physical midfield this could prove an even larger problem.

Odds of 5.0 offer good value given Brentford’s strong home form this season and City's woes.

Brentford's matches average a league-high 3.65 goals, and they have consistently found the back of the net, averaging 1.9 goals per game. Manchester City, meanwhile, average 1.8 goals per game and are always a threat in attack.

Defensively, both teams have shown vulnerabilities, Brentford concede 1.75 goals per game, while City allow 1.35. With two attacking sides and less-than-airtight defences, this bet is well-supported.

 

Man City have averaged just under 8 fouls per game this season, reflecting a willingness to disrupt opponents' play when necessary. This could easily rise away from home against a Brentford side known for their physical and direct style.

This selection would have won in City's away fixtures against Chelsea, Newcastle, Brighton and Crystal Palace so far this season.

With Brentford likely to have attacking opportunities and City’s recent struggles with an open midfield they seem likely to commit several tactical fouls to manage Brentford’s attacking threats like Wissa and Mbeumo. With Brentford averaging 9 fouls won per match, odds of 2.10 represent good odds when taking into account the possible game state that could be on show here.

Yoane Wissa has been one of Brentford’s standout performers this season, leading the team in shots per game (2.18) and shots on target (1.18). As their second-highest scorer with 10 goals in 17 games, Wissa consistently gets into dangerous positions.

Against a City defence that concedes 3.85 shots on target per game, Wissa is highly likely to test the goalkeeper at least once, making this bet a strong value pick.