Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are set to renew their rivalry in what promises to be a compelling and highly-anticipated matchup, as it always is. Manchester City, boasting their formidable squad and current form, will seek to maintain their dominance, while Tottenham, with their exciting new manager Ange Postecoglou, aim to overturn their current losing streak following mass injuries. As these two powerhouse clubs prepare to lock horns, anticipation mounts for a showdown that guarantees thrilling football and intense competition.
Team News:
Manchester City have received some positive news; John Stones has returned to the matchday squad. Whilst unlikely to start immediately, he could make his first appearance for the Sky Blues in almost a month.
Mateo Kovacic has also returned to training and might be involved in the squad. Matheus Nunes remains sidelined. Kevin de Bruyne is still out with a hamstring injury.
Tottenham are really in the wars. Key midfielder Rodrigo Bentacur, who had just recovered from a long-term injury, suffered an ankle injury against Aston Villa and will be sidelined for two months. Yves Bissouma is available following a suspension but Cristian Romero will serve the final game of his three-match ban.
Ivan Perisic, Micky van de Ven, Manor Solomon, Ryan Sessegnon, Richarlison, Pape Sarr, and star player James Maddison all remain out with various injuries.
Key Players:
Manchester City: Rodri
Rodri is simply the best defensive midfielder in the world. With him in the side, City haven’t lost in 40 matches, dating back to February when they lost to *checks notes*… Tottenham. His pivotal role against Spurs however cannot be overstated. His exceptional ability to oversee the midfield, distribute the ball, and map the game makes him a vital component of his team’s tactics. His defensive prowess, combined with his precise passing and vision, will be crucial in thwarting Spurs’ counter-attacks and initiating quick, incisive attacks of their own.
Tottenham: Heung min-Son
Sonny will be looking to continue his fine record against City, having scored seven goals in just 17 appearances against the Sky Blues. He has also notched three assists across those fixtures.
His agility and speed on the flanks make him a potent threat in counter-attacking situations, important when facing a possession-based side like City. Son’s lethal finishing and ability to create chances not only for himself but also for his teammates make him a key figure for Tottenham. His combination with Dejan Kulusevski should create problems for City’s defence.
Having already scored eight Premier League goals and determined to end this barren losing streak, expect Son to be up for this one.
In the last 20 games between the sides, there has not been a lot to divide the pair. With nine wins each, with two draws, this fixture has always been entertaining.
Manchester City have lost only two of their previous 13 Premier League home games against Tottenham, yet Spurs have defeated Manchester City six times in the Premier League since Pep Guardiola joined the club in 2016 – more than any other club.
- Manchester City could go three consecutive league matches without a win for the first time in over six years.
- Tottenham could lose four successive Premier League matches for the first time since a run of six from October to November 2004.
- Tottenham have scored the opening goal in all of their consecutive three defeats – no Premier League team has ever scored first and lost four games in a row.
Manchester City are the clear favourites to win, priced at 2/7 on bet365. Spurs are the underdogs, priced at 9/1 on bet365.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter (X)
