Wolves vs Manchester City Prediction, Lineups & Team News

Wolves vs Manchester City Prediction, Preview, Lineups, Stats, and Team News | Premier League, October 20, 2024.

The upcoming clash between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City on Sunday, October 20, 2024, promises to be an intense Premier League encounter. As Gameweek 8 unfolds, the match is set to kick off at 1:00 PM GMT at Molineux Stadium. With Wolves struggling at the bottom of the league table, and Manchester City vying for the top spot, this game is crucial for both teams.

Summary

Competition: Premier League
Date: Sunday, October 20, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM GMT
Venue: Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton
Teams: Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Manchester City
Current Positions (As of Gameweek 8): Wolves (20th), Manchester City (2nd)

Wolves vs Manchester City Preview

Wolves have endured a tough season so far, languishing at the bottom of the Premier League table with a string of five consecutive defeats across all competitions. Despite being the home side, Wolverhampton will be up against one of the strongest teams in world football—Manchester City. Wolves are coming off a 5-3 defeat to Brentford and have conceded 10 goals in their last three matches, which underscores the defensive challenges they need to address.

In contrast, Manchester City are unbeaten in their last five matches, securing three wins and two draws. After back-to-back draws against Arsenal and Newcastle United, City managed a thrilling 3-2 victory over Fulham, keeping them within striking distance of league-leaders Liverpool. Pep Guardiola’s men will be eager to extend their unbeaten run and take three crucial points as they push for another Premier League title.

Wolves Team News

Wolves’ manager Gary O’Neil finds himself in a difficult position, with mounting pressure to deliver a result. Despite their poor form, Wolves have no new injuries or suspensions to report from their last match against Brentford. O’Neil will likely stick with the same lineup that featured in the 5-3 loss, hoping to address the defensive frailties that have haunted them in recent weeks.

Wolves Football Club Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1)

Goalkeeper: Sam Johnstone
Defenders: Nelson Semedo, Craig Dawson, Toti Gomes, Rayan Ait-Nouri
Midfielders: Mario Lemina (C), Andre, Joao Gomes
Forwards: Carlos Borges, Jorgen Strand Larsen, Matheus Cunha

Wolves will rely on players like Rayan Ait-Nouri and Matheus Cunha to make a difference, with Ait-Nouri being a key creative outlet from the left flank.

Manchester City Team News

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is expected to field a strong lineup for this match. The big news is that captain Kevin De Bruyne is nearing a return, although he might not be ready to start this match. Kyle Walker, who came off the bench in their last game, is expected to return to the starting XI. City’s squad depth ensures that they can rotate players without compromising their performance levels.

Manchester City Football Club Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1)

Goalkeeper: Ederson
Defenders: Kyle Walker (C), Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol
Midfielders: Phil Foden, Mateo Kovacic, Ilkay Gundogan
Forwards: Bernardo Silva, Erling Haaland, Jack Grealish

Erling Haaland will be a focal point for Manchester City as they aim to break down a vulnerable Wolves defense. The Norwegian striker has been in stellar form and will look to add to his goal tally.

Wolves vs Manchester City Head-to-Head Record

The recent head-to-head record between Wolves and Manchester City is heavily skewed in favor of City. Wolves have lost four out of their last five encounters with City, conceding a staggering 17 goals in the process. However, Wolves did manage to secure a 2-1 victory at home against City in September 2023, giving them a glimmer of hope.

Date	Match	Competition
04/05/24	Man City 5-1 Wolves	Premier League
30/09/23	Wolves 2-1 Man City	Premier League
22/01/23	Man City 3-0 Wolves	Premier League
17/09/22	Wolves 0-3 Man City	Premier League
12/05/22	Wolves 1-5 Man City	Premier League

Key Players to Watch

Rayan Ait-Nouri (Wolves)

Despite his role as a left-back, Rayan Ait-Nouri operates more like a winger, frequently surging forward to provide offensive support. With four goal contributions this season, he remains a key player for Wolves. His creativity from the wide areas could be pivotal in breaking down City’s defense.

Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

Manchester City’s talisman Erling Haaland has been in sensational form, registering 10 goals and assists in the Premier League this season. Fresh from a brace for Norway during the international break, Haaland will look to maintain his momentum and lead City’s charge at Molineux.