Prediction: Manchester City vs Bournemouth

Verdict: Both teams to score

Best odds: 4/6

Bookmaker: Betfair

At the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, Manchester City will welcome high-flying Bournemouth in a meeting that few would have predicted to be a top-five showdown.

Pep Guardiola’s side, sitting fifth, are under pressure after a damaging defeat to Aston Villa, while Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth arrive in second place, unbeaten since losing to Liverpool on the opening day and riding a wave of confidence.

Manchester City

Manchester City’s season has been marked by inconsistency rather than dominance. A 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend was their third league loss already, leaving them outside the top four and six points behind leaders Arsenal.

The result reinforced a growing concern—City’s heavy reliance on Erling Haaland. The Norwegian has scored nearly two-thirds of their Premier League goals this season, and when he is contained, Guardiola’s side often lack alternative solutions.

Despite these issues, City remain formidable at home. They have won four consecutive matches at the Etihad across all competitions, scoring 12 goals and conceding just once. Their midweek EFLCarabao Cup victory over Swansea (3-1) showcased squad depth, with Rayan Cherki impressing in Phil Foden’s absence. Foden, set to make his 200th Premier League appearance, will be central to Guardiola’s plans as City look to rediscover attacking fluidity.

Expect City to dominate possession and press aggressively, but their ability to diversify attacking threats beyond Haaland will be key against a Bournemouth side brimming with confidence.

Team News

City’s injury concerns have eased. Haaland and Rodri returned to full training, with the lethal striker expected to start and Rodri likely to feature from the bench. Indeed, Guardiola boasts a near fully-fit squad, with Foden set to reclaim his spot in the XI.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth have been the surprise package of the season. After losing their opener to Liverpool, Iraola’s men have gone eight games unbeaten, collecting 18 points—their best-ever tally at this stage of a Premier League campaign.

A 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest last weekend underlined their resilience and attacking efficiency, with Eli Junior Kroupi continuing his breakout run by scoring in his third consecutive match.

The Cherries’ success has been built on bold, front-foot football. Iraola’s system emphasizes energy, overlapping full-backs, and quick transitions, making Bournemouth dangerous on the counter. Antoine Semenyo has been a standout performer with nine goal involvements, while Kroupi’s emergence adds unpredictability to their attack.

However, history is against them in this fixture. Bournemouth have lost all eight Premier League visits to the Etihad, including a 3-1 defeat last season. To change that narrative, they must stay compact defensively and capitalize on City’s occasional vulnerability in transition.

Team News

Iraola also has a near full-strength squad. Enes Unal returned from a long-term ACL injury against Forest, though Evanilson remains a doubt with a calf issue.

Kroupi is expected to lead the line again after scoring in three straight games.

Head-to-Head: City’s Dominance

Manchester City have won all eight Premier League home meetings with Bournemouth and boast 21 wins from their last 24 encounters overall.

The Cherries have never beaten City at the Etihad, making this a daunting challenge despite their current form. On the other hand, it is also a chance to make history.

Conclusion

City’s home strength and attacking depth make them favorites, but Bournemouth’s form and fearless approach suggest they won’t go quietly. Expect an open, high-tempo contest with goals at both ends.

Haaland’s form and City’s midfield control should prove decisive, though Bournemouth’s confidence could see them grab a consolation.

Verdict: Both teams to score

Best odds: 4/6

Bookmaker: Betfair