The 3-0 victory over Man Utd and Haaland’s performance were an affirmation that Man City is still there, still on the track to defend the championship. This week, they will welcome Bournemouth – a team that is facing many difficulties in the English Premier League.
Coach Gary O’Neil and his team won 1, drew 3 and lost 6 in the past 10 matches. The risk of relegation is gradually appearing before Bournemouth’s eyes. Therefore, every match is now like a final. Man City or any opponent, Solanke and his teammates must fight.
Basically, Bournemouth will approach the match with Man City like many other teams in the Premier League. They must focus as much as possible on defense before thinking about counterattacks. Locking down Haaland is an important task for Bournemouth’s defense.
Meanwhile, Man City showed that they can still maintain their winning streak without Kevin de Bruyne. Coach Pep Guardiola is facing certain difficulties, but he is managing many options to ensure the ball supply for Erling Haaland.
Matheus Nunes, Kovacic and Bernardo Silva are the options that Pep Guardiola has at hand. The Spanish military leader is leaning towards Bernardo Silva. This midfielder has enough dexterity and delicate passes to open up many attacks for the home team. Nunes or Kovacic can be put on the field in the second half to balance defense and attack.
Man City lost 2 of the last 6 matches in the Premier League. They won all 4 remaining matches. Overall, Man City may have a bit of difficulty without Kevin de Bruyne but they are still a scary opponent with a perfectly run system.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth lost 4, drew 1 and won 1 of the last 6 matches. This team lost 15 goals in the last 6 matches. When defense is the weak point, it is difficult for Bournemouth to stand firm against Man City.
Man City force vs Bournemouth
Akanji will return after suspension and help Man City have more options in defense. Kevin de Bruyne continues to be absent due to injury. Doku and Grealish are both in the best physical condition and ready to play.
As for Bournemouth, Lewis Cook continues to be suspended, Neto (ankle), Tyler Adams (thigh), Ryan Fredericks (calf) and Emiliano Marcondes (foot) are all sidelined.