Manchester City will travel to the south coast to face Bournemouth as they aim to consolidate their lead in the Premier League.
With Pep Guardiola’s squad facing a mounting injury list, this matchup at the Vitality Stadium will be critical for the side as Bournemouth hope to turn their recent solid performances into a massive upset.
Manchester City’s Recent Form
Manchester City recently clinched a narrow 1-0 victory over Southampton, reclaiming the top of the league standings. However, they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham in the Carabao Cup in midweek, exposing potential vulnerabilities as they contend with a packed fixture schedule.
Despite their recent slip, City’s track record against Bournemouth remains impeccable, as they continue their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts.
Bournemouth’s Recent Form
Bournemouth are coming off a resilient 1-1 draw against Aston Villa. Their form has been mixed, but the Cherries have shown grit, especially in their recent 2-0 victory over Arsenal at home, a significant boost for their confidence.
Injury and Team News
The Cherries may see the return of key players Philip Billing, Kepa, and Luis Sinisterra, all of whom could be instrumental in this fixture.
Manchester City, on the other hand, are grappling with a lengthy injury list. Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, and Kyle Walker are sidelined, with long-term absentees Rodri and Oscar Bobb also out. Savinho’s injury in the recent match against Spurs further complicates Guardiola’s lineup options.
Last Bournemouth Lineup
Here is how Bournemouth lined up for their last match against Aston Villa:
Last Manchester City Lineup
Here is how Manchester City lined up for their recent game against Tottenham:
Who is the Referee and VAR?
Referee: Michael Oliver.
Assistants: Stuart Burt, Craig Taylor.
Fourth official: Andrew Kitchen.
VAR: Graham Scott.
Assistant VAR: Sian Massey-Ellis.
Bournemouth Player to Watch
Dominic Solanke - Bournemouth’s main striker has consistently posed a threat up front. His recent form makes him a key player to watch, as his presence and positioning will be pivotal for Bournemouth’s attacking ambitions.
Manchester City Player to Watch
Erling Haaland - City’s goal machine has the ability to change games single-handedly, and with injuries thinning out other options, Guardiola will look to him for finishing power in the final third.
Prediction
While Bournemouth’s recent results have shown promise, Manchester City’s quality and depth make them the favourites.
Our Prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Bournemouth.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Manchester City to win, given their excellent record against Bournemouth.
Tip 2
Both teams to score, with City’s defensive injuries and Bournemouth’s recent attacking form.
Tip 3
Over 2.5 goals in the match, as City often score heavily even with lineup challenges.
