The Etihad Stadium is set to host a fascinating Premier League encounter today, Sunday, November 2, 2025, as Manchester City welcome an unexpectedly high-flying AFC Bournemouth. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:30 PM GMT.
This fixture offers a compelling narrative: the reigning champions, Manchester City, find themselves in an unfamiliar position, currently sitting fifth in the league standings with 16 points after a somewhat inconsistent start to their campaign. Their recent 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa brought an end to an impressive nine-game unbeaten run across all competitions. In stark contrast, Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, have been the surprise package of the season, defying expectations to occupy a remarkable second place in the Premier League with 18 points. The Cherries arrive at the Etihad boasting the league’s longest current unbeaten streak, an impressive eight games (W5 D3), including a confident 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in their last outing.
The stage is set for a clash of ambitions: Can Bournemouth continue their dream run and further widen the gap on their illustrious hosts, or will Manchester City, stung by their recent league defeat, reassert their dominance at home and begin their climb back towards the summit? What’s at stake is not just three points, but also a significant psychological boost for whichever side emerges victorious.
Head-to-Head
Historically, this fixture has been heavily dominated by Manchester City. Both clubs have met 18 times in competitive matches. Manchester City boasts an overwhelming record of 17 wins, with Bournemouth securing just one victory, and no matches ending in a draw. Over these encounters, City have scored 53 goals compared to Bournemouth’s 12.
Recent Results (Last 5 Meetings):
- May 20, 2025: Manchester City 3-1 AFC Bournemouth
- March 30, 2025: AFC Bournemouth 1-2 Manchester City (FA Cup)
- November 2, 2024: AFC Bournemouth 2-1 Manchester City
- February 24, 2024: AFC Bournemouth 0-1 Manchester City
- November 4, 2023: Manchester City 6-1 AFC Bournemouth
Interestingly, Bournemouth’s solitary victory against Manchester City came just a year ago, on November 2, 2024, a 2-1 home win, which provides a glimmer of hope and a historical footnote for the visitors. Many of these encounters have also been high-scoring affairs, with 15 out of 18 matches seeing over 2.5 goals.
Current Form & Team News
Manchester City
Manchester City’s Premier League campaign has seen an uncharacteristic inconsistency, highlighted by three defeats in their opening nine games. Their last league outing resulted in a 1-0 loss away to Aston Villa. However, their home form remains formidable, with Guardiola’s side winning their last four games at the Etihad across all competitions, scoring 12 goals in the process.
Team News:
Pep Guardiola has received a crucial double fitness boost for today’s match. Star striker Erling Haaland, who missed the midweek Carabao Cup win over Swansea due to a knock, has been confirmed fit and available for selection. Similarly, key midfielder Rodri has recovered from a hamstring issue and returns to the squad, though he is not expected to start. Mateo Kovacic remains a doubt as he continues his recovery from Achilles surgery and is not yet fully match-fit. Phil Foden is a standout player in form, with eight goal contributions in eight previous appearances against Bournemouth, and is set to make his 200th Premier League appearance today, becoming the youngest City player to reach this milestone.
AFC Bournemouth
Bournemouth enters this fixture in scintillating form, boasting an eight-game unbeaten streak in the Premier League (W5 D3). They secured a comfortable 2-0 home win against Nottingham Forest in their most recent league game. This impressive run has seen them climb to an unexpected second place in the league table.
Team News:
The Cherries have relatively few injury concerns. Striker Evanilson, who has been dealing with a calf issue, has been training for most of the week and is expected to travel with the squad and be available. Enes Unal has also returned to the squad following a long-term knee injury, providing another attacking option. Nineteen-year-old forward Eli Junior Kroupi has been in excellent scoring form, netting in his last three league outings. Antoine Semenyo is another key attacking threat, enjoying a hot streak with six goals and three assists this season.
Tactical Preview
Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, will almost certainly employ their familiar possession-based, attacking 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation. Their strategy will revolve around dominating the midfield, pushing high up the pitch, and creating intricate passing movements to unlock Bournemouth’s defense. The return of Erling Haaland will restore their focal point in attack, while the creative talents of Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, and others will look to exploit any gaps. City’s defensive weaknesses have been somewhat exposed this season, particularly against quick counter-attacks, which Bournemouth could look to exploit.
Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, are likely to set up in a disciplined 4-4-2 or 4-5-1, prioritizing defensive solidity and looking to hit City on the break. They have proven to be “tricky customers” with dangerous attacking options. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Bournemouth needing to disrupt City’s rhythm and prevent their creative players from dictating play. The pace and directness of players like Semenyo, Kluivert, Tavernier, and Kroupi will be their primary attacking threats.
Weather conditions in Manchester today are expected to be cool, with temperatures around 9-12°C, and a chance of light rain. While the Etihad pitch is typically pristine, a wet surface could slightly affect City’s quick passing game and potentially lead to more unpredictable moments, which might favor the underdog. Travel fatigue is not expected to be a significant factor for either side in this domestic fixture.
