The battle of the giants proved to be a bittersweet one for Manchester City after drawing a home game against Arsenal. Though Pep Guardiola‘s team was the better team in the second half, the game can prove to be decisive in their campaign ahead. But the focus will turn to another tough match, this time at St James’ Park against Newcastle United. Although City in recent times trumped this fixture, the availability of few key players will leave them concerned. On the other hand, the Magpies will face a demanding challenge after their defeat to Fulham, but to their relief, the news was positive on Sandro Tonali’s side.

It may be early stages of the tournament, but these games can turn the course for teams. Newcastle United conceded two late goals in big fixtures against Liverpool and City last year despite being ahead for most of the game which cost them the Europa League spot. Hence, both teams are expected to provide a scintillating clash.

Newcastle United vs. Manchester City: All you need to know

Injury and team news

Manchester City: Last season’s champions have gradually accumulated injuries again. Last season, Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne missed many games due to their injuries. This time, Rodri is expected to be sidelined for almost the entire season after catching a cruciate ligament issue while chasing a corner against Arsenal. The midfield-controlling Spaniard was at the center of the City’s success for the last couple of seasons handling their possession play nearly perfectly.

Moreover, Pep Guardiola cited doubts about De Bruyne’s presence in the game too despite stating that he is getting better after his claimed groin injury in the UEFA Champions League. The Belgian scored the equalizer and provided the dying-minute assist to Oscab Bobb in their previous meeting last season helping them win 3-2. Even Bobb is ruled out for 3-4 months due to a fractured leg during training last month.

Newcastle United: The #6 team in the PL has a few players out long-term, but also faced a scare when Alexander Isak was doubtful for the game against Fulham. The Swed reportedly suffered eye and foot injuries in the earlier league game but looked fine at Craven Cottage. Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles will be out until late 2024 and Lewis Miley is expected to return after a month after breaking his metatarsal in pre-season. However, last year’s star signing Sandro Tonali is back after a long suspension.

Expected Lineups

Manchester City predicted XI: Ederson; Rico Lewis, Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Diaz, Manuel Akanji; Mateo Kovacic, Bernardo Silva; Savinho, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish; Haaland.

Newcastle United predicted XI: Nick Pope; Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, Lloyd Kelley; Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, Joelinton; Anthony Gordon, Alexander Isak, Harvey Barnes.

Head to head

Both teams met 154 times earlier in all competitions with City winning 68 times. The Magpies have won 53 times with the remaining 33 ending in a draw. But astonishingly, in the last 18 years, Newcastle beat the Sky Blues just thrice and only once in a league match way back in the 2018-19 season. Guardiola’s men will again go as the favorites into Saturday’s clash.

When and where to watch the match?

The match will take place at St James’ Park, Newcastle on Saturday, September 28 at 1230 BST/ 0730 hrs ET/ 0430 hrs PST. Fans can watch the game live on  TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate in the UK and Fubo TV, the NBC Sports App, and website, UNIVERSO NOW, Telemundo Deportes, En VivoUSA Network, and UNIVERSO in the USA.