Manchester City host one of the Premier League’s surprise packages on Sunday. High-flying AFC Bournemouth visit the Etihad Stadium for what should be a fascinating top-four clash.
Pep Guardiola’s side currently sit fifth, aiming to close the gap on the leaders. However, they face a stern test against Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth. The Cherries arrive in second place after enjoying their best-ever start to a top-flight season.
Manchester City vs Bournemouth – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: Sunday, 2 November 2025
- Kick-off: 4:30 pm GMT
- Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
- Referee: Anthony Taylor
- VAR: Paul Tierney
- Last Meeting: Manchester City 3-1 AFC Bournemouth, 21 May 2025, Premier League
Team News
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola has received a crucial double fitness boost ahead of this match. Both Erling Haaland, who missed the midweek cup win, and Rodri (hamstring) have returned to training. Guardiola confirmed both players are available for selection. With a fully-fit squad to choose from, key regulars like Phil Foden and Rúben Dias are expected to return to the starting lineup.
Bournemouth
The Cherries have few major injury concerns heading into this fixture. Striker Evanilson is the only minor doubt with a calf issue. However, he is expected to travel with the squad. Meanwhile, Enes Unal has returned to the squad after a long-term knee injury, providing another attacking option. Nineteen-year-old forward Eli Junior Kroupi is set to lead the line again after his recent impressive performances.
Form
Manchester City
City’s league campaign has been uncharacteristically inconsistent. They have already suffered three defeats in their first nine games. In fact, they lost their last league outing 1-0 at Aston Villa. Despite this, their home form remains formidable. Guardiola’s side have won their last four games at the Etihad in all competitions, scoring an impressive 12 goals in that time.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth are the league’s surprise package, currently sitting second in the table. Furthermore, they are on the longest current unbeaten run in the division, a streak that now stretches eight games. They arrive full of confidence after a solid 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest. However, they face a dreadful historical record, having lost 15 of their 16 league games against City.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester City predicted XI: Donnarumma; Nunes, Stones, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri; Silva, Reijnders, Foden, Savinho; Haaland
Bournemouth predicted XI: Petrović; Smith, Milosavljević, Senesi, Truffert; Adams, Scott; Tavernier, Kluivert, Semenyo; Kroupi
How to watch Manchester City vs Bournemouth?
Fans in the UK can watch the match live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League. Coverage will follow the West Ham vs Newcastle game.
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