Chris Kavanagh has been confirmed as the match referee for Chelsea’s showdown against Manchester City this Sunday, as Liam Rosenior’s side looks to navigate a disciplinary tightrope.
The disciplinary record of Chelsea has been poor this season, with the club already closing in on a new Premier League record by recording nine red cards.
This lack of composure was epitomised by Pedro Neto’s recent dismissal against Arsenal, marking the team’s tenth red card across all competitions.
Currently sitting on 62 yellow cards, Chelsea are among the most cautioned sides in the league, with Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez leading the individual tally.
With season-defining fixtures against Manchester City and Manchester United coming up, the Blues need to do their talking with the ball and avoid any more stupid mistakes.
You can only pick ONE, Chelsea fans 👀
Champions League qualification or FA Cup trophy for Chelsea
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Chris Kavanagh appointed as the referee for Chelsea vs Man City
The Premier League have announced the full list of officials for Chelsea’s clash with Man City.
Chris Kavanagh will be the man in the middle, with Dan Cook and Ian Hussin as his assistants. Meanwhile, the fourth official is Sam Barrott, while Paul Howard is on VAR and his assistant is Sian Massey-Ellis.
Chelsea actually have a pretty good record in games officiated by Kavanagh. It currently stands at 15 wins, three draws and six defeats.
On the other hand, Man City have won 10, drawn three and lost three.
Hato, Joao Pedro or someone else? 🤔
Jorrel Hato prove me wrong graphic
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Chelsea and Manchester City’s recent head-to-head results
Chelsea’s are on a frustrating winless streak that stretches back to the 2021 Champions League final against Manchester City. Since that historic night in Porto, the Blues have failed to record a victory against the Citizens in nine consecutive Premier League meetings.
The most recent encounter in January 2026 ended in a hard-fought 1–1 draw at the Etihad Stadium.
Last season was particularly bruising, suffering a 2–0 defeat at Stamford Bridge in the season opener followed by a 3–1 loss in Manchester.
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