The Premier League Matchweek 10 fixture sees Manchester City host the surprising high-flyers AFC Bournemouth in what is poised to be a crucial early-season contest. Following a recent league defeat, Manchester City will be desperate to return to winning ways at the Etihad Stadium and close the gap on the top of the table. Their opponents, AFC Bournemouth, have enjoyed a sensational start to the campaign under their manager and arrive in Manchester sitting uncharacteristically high up the standings. This clash pits City’s renowned attacking strength against the Cherries’ newfound consistency and tactical discipline, making it a compelling Sunday afternoon showdown.
Match Details
This vital Premier League encounter will take place at Manchester City’s home ground, the Etihad Stadium.
CompetitionDateKick-off (GMT)VenuePremier LeagueSunday, November 2, 202516:30Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Team Form and Analysis for Manchester City
Domestic and European Performance
Manchester City enters this match in a strong position overall, though their recent league form has included a surprising setback. They are currently placed fifth in the Premier League table, having secured five wins, one draw, and three defeats from their opening nine games. The team’s domestic campaign suffered a minor wobble with a narrow loss in their last league outing, a result that has put a small dent in their early title aspirations. However, they swiftly recovered in midweek with a win in the Carabao Cup, demonstrating their squad depth and ability to bounce back quickly.
Key Player: Erling Haaland
The Norwegian striker Erling Haaland remains the pivotal figure in the City attack. Despite a rare blank in the last league defeat, his record speaks for itself, leading the Golden Boot race with an exceptional goal tally. His movement, clinical finishing, and immense physical presence are central to City’s tactical approach. If City is to break down a resilient Bournemouth defence, Haaland’s ability to find space and convert chances will be absolutely paramount.
Team Form and Analysis for AFC Bournemouth
Domestic and European Performance
AFC Bournemouth has been one of the biggest revelations of the 2025/2026 Premier League season. Under the guidance of manager Andoni Iraola, they sit remarkably in second place, two points ahead of their illustrious hosts. Their domestic form is characterised by an impressive eight-match unbeaten run in the league, including a recent comfortable home victory against Nottingham Forest. The Cherries’ away form has also been respectable, showcasing resilience and an ability to compete on the road.
Key Player: Antoine Semenyo
Forward Antoine Semenyo has been instrumental in Bournemouth’s excellent run, emerging as one of the league’s most in-form attacking players. His pace, direct running, and sharp finishing have seen him become the team’s top scorer, making him a constant threat on the counter-attack. The battle between Semenyo and the City defence will be a fascinating subplot, as his individual brilliance could be the key to unlocking a surprise result for the Cherries.
Head-to-Head Record Between the Teams
Historically, Manchester City has held overwhelming dominance in this fixture. Their record against AFC Bournemouth across all competitions is exceptional, with 21 victories, two draws, and only one solitary loss in 24 total meetings. This fixture often results in high-scoring encounters at the Etihad, though Bournemouth did manage a notable 2-1 victory at home in November 2024, proving they are capable of causing an upset. The most recent fixture saw a 3-1 win for Manchester City at home in May 2025.
Players to Watch
Manchester City
Phil Foden: The England international possesses superb close control and creativity, consistently ranking highly for chances created. His ability to find pockets of space and link midfield to attack will be crucial to City’s build-up play against a compact defensive setup.
Rodri: As the defensive anchor, Rodri’s control of the midfield tempo and his tactical fouls are essential to City’s system. His return to the starting line-up, after being rested in the Carabao Cup, will provide the stability and passing accuracy needed to counter Bournemouth’s high-pressing style.
AFC Bournemouth
Alex Scott: The young midfielder is a dynamic and energetic presence in the centre of the park. His ability to break up play, drive forward with the ball, and link up with the forward line will be vital in transitioning from defence to attack against the relentless City pressure.
Marcos Senesi: The centre-back has been a key figure in Bournemouth’s improved defensive record this season. His leadership, aerial strength, and positional sense will face their sternest test against the likes of Haaland and Foden, making his performance critical to keeping the scoreline tight.
Prediction: The Blue Wall Holds Firm
Despite AFC Bournemouth’s incredible start to the season and the pressure on Manchester City to perform at home, the historical dominance and sheer attacking quality of the reigning champions are expected to prevail. While Bournemouth’s disciplined pressing and clinical counter-attacks will undoubtedly trouble City’s occasionally vulnerable defence, the return of key players and the motivation to correct their league form should be enough. City is likely to control the possession and eventually break down the stubborn Cherries defence, with Erling Haaland inevitably finding the back of the net.
Score Prediction: Manchester City 3-1 AFC Bournemouth
Live Stream and TV Broadcast Information
For viewers in the UK, the match is scheduled to be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR. The coverage will commence before the 16:30 GMT kick-off. International viewers should check local sports listings for broadcast rights in their respective regions.
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
