Pep Guardiola will set up his squad with one eye on the Real Madrid clash.
Image credit: City HQ
Manchester City and Newcastle United go head-to-head in a crucial Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium this Saturday.
Given that both teams are battling for a top-four finish, this encounter promises to be an intense affair filled with high stakes and tactical intrigue.
Current Form & Standings
Pep Guardiola’s Cityzens have struggled for consistency this season, winning just half of their 24 league matches (W12 D5 L7).
A shocking 5-1 defeat to Arsenal in their last league outing exposed their defensive vulnerabilities, and they now sit fifth in the table, two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea who lost to Brighton on Friday night.
The reigning champions have also endured heartbreak in Europe, recently conceding two late goals to lose 3-2 to Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are level on points with City but trail slightly on goal difference.
Eddie Howe’s side have been impressive on the road, winning their last four away league games, including victories at Manchester United, Tottenham, and Arsenal.
The Magpies have also booked a spot in the EFL Cup final and remain in contention for a top-four finish.
Head-to-Head Record
History heavily favors Manchester City in this fixture. The Etihad has been a fortress against Newcastle, with City winning their last 15 home meetings against the Magpies.
The last time Newcastle won away at City in the Premier League was in September 2000, when the Citizens were still playing at Maine Road.
However, Newcastle’s recent away form suggests they could finally break their 24-year drought, making this a fascinating contest.
Team News
Manchester City
City’s squad is dealing with several injury concerns. Jack Grealish and Manuel Akanji are major doubts after picking up muscle injuries in midweek, while Rodri remains sidelined.
Guardiola might have to reshuffle his defense, with Nathan Ake and Rico Lewis expected to feature.
Jeremy Doku, Phil Foden, and Omar Marmoush will compete for attacking spots behind Erling Haaland, who will look to add to his goal tally.
Possible Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Ortega; Nunes, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol; Kovacic, Gonzalez; Savinho, Foden, Marmoush; Haaland
Newcastle United
The Magpies have their own injury worries. Jamaal Lascelles (knee) and Harvey Barnes (muscle) remain out, while Anthony Gordon, Joelinton, Sven Botman, and Dan Burn are doubtful.
Nick Pope has returned to action, giving Howe a crucial decision to make in goal.
Possible Lineup (4-3-3):
Dubravka; Livramento, Botman, Schar, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Prediction
Newcastle’s woeful record at the Etihad suggests City should have the upper hand, but Howe’s side has shown resilience in big away matches this season.
The Magpies are in strong form and could capitalize on City’s defensive lapses.
Expect goals at both ends, with City’s attacking quality keeping them in the game, but Newcastle’s newfound grit making this a competitive encounter.
Prediction: Manchester City 2-2 Newcastle United