Premier League 2018-19: 3 fixtures that will determine Manchester City's title defence

Manchester City has been one of the best clubs in the Premier League in recent times. The club has won 3 Premier League titles, 1 FA Cup and 2 Community shields in the last decade. And last season, they absolutely tore records apart, claimed 100 points and romped to the league title, giving English football an all new dimension.

Manchester City was on rampant mode until Chelsea inflicted their first loss of the season and it was followed by 2 more losses in just the space of three games. The defeats against Leicester city and relegation-threatened Crystal Palace have really hurt their chances to clinch the second consecutive title.

However, with one of the best sides in Europe, arguably the best manager in the world and a unique brand of football

Here are the three fixtures that might be the biggest tests for Manchester City.

#1 Chelsea v Manchester City (February 24, 2019)

David Luiz celebrates after a second against Manchester City

Manchester City and Chelsea have already played against each other at Stamford Bridge on 8th December 2018 and Chelsea completely outplayed City in that match. It was the first league loss for City and derailed them off the track for a while.

Chelsea under coach Maurizio Sarri is again capable of beating Manchester City. While the Blues would try to win this game to be in the top 4 race, a draw might be sufficient for them at the Etihad, whereas it might be a lost opportunity for Manchester City.

#2 Manchester United v Manchester City (March 16, 2019)

The derby between the Manchester clubs is considered to be one of the most awaited fixtures of the season. In the last fixture between Manchester City and Manchester United, City emerged out as the winners, with a comfortable 3-1 win.

A lot has changed after that, for Manchester United. The team is looking really sharp in the attack has recently defeated Tottenham at Wembley stadium, thereby putting forth a statement of purpose to the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea.

The team is pushing hard for a place in the top 4 and given there recent rise in form under Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, not many would write them off at the moment. Hence, this will be a high-voltage clash.

#3 Tottenham v Manchester City (April 20, 2019)

When the teams encountered each other at Wembley Stadium on October 30, 2018, a solo goal by the new recruit, Riyad Mahrez, turned out to be the difference between the two teams.

For Manchester City, it would be a must-win game for them as it would be their final game of the season against the top six.

Despite having shut their purse in the summer, Spurs, with their relatively fragile unit, have defied expectations and set out to chase the title. And if City can attack, the North Londoners can do it too, in a different style. Hence, this is expected to be a title-defining fixture.