New Delhi: Manchester City kick off their Premier League home campaign by welcoming newly-promoted Ipswich Town to the Etihad Stadium. After a confident 2-0 win against Chelsea in their season opener, City will be looking to maintain their momentum. Erling Haaland marked his 100th appearance for the club with a goal, while Mateo Kovacic also found the back of the net, setting the tone for what City fans hope will be another successful season under Pep Guardiola.
Ipswich Town, on the other hand, are back in the top flight for the first time in over two decades. Their return was less than ideal, as they suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to Liverpool. Despite the loss, Ipswich showed glimpses of potential under the guidance of Kieran McKenna, and they’ll aim to put up a stronger fight against the reigning champions. However, facing a City side that has been unbeaten in their last 45 games at the Etihad, Ipswich knows they have a daunting task ahead.
Team News
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 18: Erling Haaland of Manchester City celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Manchester City FC at Stamford Bridge on August 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Manchester City are likely to be without Rodri, who missed the Chelsea game and has been training separately. New signing Savinho, who impressed on his debut, is also a doubt for this match. However, Ilkay Gundogan might be available for selection after rejoining the club from Barcelona. Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Phil Foden, who were on the bench against Chelsea, are expected to return to the starting lineup.
Ipswich have injury concerns of their own, with Wes Burns, Nathan Broadhead, George Hirst, and Harry Clarke all sidelined. Kalvin Phillips is ineligible to play against his parent club, but new signing Jens Cajuste could make his debut. There’s also a possibility that Ipswich could complete a loan deal for Armando Broja in time for this match.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester City: Ederson; Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Kovacic, De Bruyne; Bernardo, Foden, Doku, Haaland
Ipswich Town: Walton; Tuanzebe, Woolfenden, Greaves, Davis; Morsy, Luongo; Johnson, Chaplin, Hutchinson; Delap
Where to Watch in India?
Fans in India can catch the Manchester City vs Ipswich Town match live on the Star Sports network. The game will also be available for live streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 pm IST on Saturday, August 24.
Prediction
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 18: Erling Haaland of Mancester City celebrates after the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Manchester City FC at Stamford Bridge on August 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
Manchester City are overwhelming favourites going into this fixture. Ipswich put in a spirited performance against Liverpool, but facing City at the Etihad is a different challenge altogether. With Guardiola’s side in fine form and boasting a formidable home record, it’s hard to see anything other than a comfortable win for the reigning champions. A 3-0 victory for Manchester City seems likely as they continue their pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League title.
Manchester City host Ipswich Town at the Etihad, aiming for another win after a strong start to their title defence. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
