Newcastle vs Manchester City Preview
- Draw or City win
- Isak to score
Newcastle United prepares for a challenging encounter as defending champions Manchester City visit St James’ Park.
With recent speculation about unrest affecting the squad’s performance, and Manchester City’s relentless form, this clash promises to be a test of character for Eddie Howe’s side.
Newcastle United: Aiming to Bounce Back
Newcastle’s strong start to the season hit a bump last week as they suffered a 3-1 defeat against Fulham. This first loss after an unbeaten five-match streak across all competitions (W4, D1) frustrated manager Eddie Howe, who was keen for a quick response.
However, facing Manchester City will be anything but an easy task, and Newcastle’s recent struggles against City only add to the challenge.
Despite an impressive ten-match unbeaten home run in the Premier League (W6, D4), the Magpies’ record against Manchester City has been poor, having beaten them just once in the league since September 2005 (D5, L27).
Howe’s personal record against City also provides little encouragement, with just one win in 18 attempts (D1, L16) as a manager.
Manchester City: Looking to Continue Their Dominance
Manchester City comes into this fixture with a dominant record over Newcastle, scoring 14 goals in their last four away head-to-heads (H2Hs).
Pep Guardiola’s team managed to maintain momentum with a dramatic 98th-minute equaliser to draw 2-2 against Arsenal last Sunday, preserving their unbeaten Premier League run (W23, D5) spanning 28 matches, 13 of which have been away (W12, D1).
However, City’s preparation for the Newcastle game isn’t without its concerns. Midfielder Rodri’s serious knee injury, which is expected to keep him out for the remainder of the season, poses a significant challenge for Guardiola.
His presence has been crucial to City’s unbeaten run, and finding a suitable replacement will be a top priority as they look to extend their dominance in the league.
Players to Watch
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)
The Swedish striker will look to make an impact against Manchester City, having scored the winning goal the last time these two sides met in a League Cup tie in September 2023.
Isak has a knack for scoring late, with three of his last four Premier League goals coming in the second half. His composure and finishing ability will be key if Newcastle aims to break their long-standing league drought against City.
Jérémy Doku (Manchester City)
The City winger has a similar knack for scoring late goals, with four of his last five coming after the 70th minute.
His pace and dribbling skills provide a consistent threat on the wing, and with the absence of Rodri in the midfield, Doku’s creativity and goal-scoring ability might become even more critical for Guardiola’s side.
The Battle of St James’ Park
Newcastle’s unbeaten home streak will be put to the test as they face the defending champions. Although recent history heavily favours Manchester City, the Magpies’ strong form at St James’ Park could provide them with a platform to challenge City’s dominance.
A strong start will be crucial, and Eddie Howe will aim to build on their home confidence to give his side the best possible chance.
Manchester City’s Record and Potential Adjustments
Guardiola’s side remains the team to beat in the Premier League, but the loss of Rodri could have an impact on their fluidity and defensive stability.
City will need to adjust their midfield structure to maintain their strong form on the road. Their record against Newcastle speaks for itself, but with both sides carrying momentum and attacking threats, this fixture is set to be a thrilling battle.
Final Thoughts
Newcastle United will look to break their long-standing league curse against Manchester City, while City aims to continue their dominant form despite the absence of key players.
With both teams possessing late-scoring threats in Alexander Isak and Jérémy Doku, this match may well be decided in the final stages.
Will Newcastle’s home resilience propel them to a long-awaited league victory over Manchester City, or will Guardiola’s side continue their unbeaten run with another clinical performance?
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Newcastle v Man City, 2024/25 | Premier League