An injury-ravaged Manchester City will travel to the south coast this weekend to take on Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
The visitors suffered defeat in the Carabao Cup in the week but more concerning was the serious-looking injury to winger, Savinho who left the field in tears.
As a result, this match could represent an opportunity for the Cherries to pounce on their weakened opponents and they will be looking forward to the challenge.
How the bookies view it: Man City aren't as short as usual
Man City typically go into Premier League matches at a price that isn't worth considering but that isn't the case this weekend which throws up an interesting proposition. Betfred have priced them at 4/7 to win the match while a win for Bournemouth has been priced at 9/2. The draw, which would be a good result for the hosts, has been priced at 7/2.
Recent head-to-head: City dominance
When you look at Man City's record against Bournemouth in the Premier League, their price of 4/7 to win on Saturday looks like remarkably good value. They have won all 15 of the meetings between the two sides since Bournemouth were promoted to the Premier League for the first time in 2015.
Bournemouth have never recorded a win over Man City in their history but they have managed two draws in 1989 and 1999.
Players to watch: Can Foden find his magic touch?
With midfield and forwards dropping like flies in the Man City squad, there is plenty of pressure on those available to produce their very best form. One man who is currently falling well below that is Phil Foden and his performances are now becoming a serious cause for concern for those associated with the club.
Foden is perhaps still suffering a hangover from his under-par performances for England at Euro 2024 and he was hooked at half-time in the week as City crashed out of the Carabao Cup. Due to a lack of other fit options, Foden will almost certainly be given the opportunity to start again on Saturday and Guardiola really needs him to step up.
Looking to capitalise on a weakened City team will be Bournemouth striker, Evanlison. The Brazilian was signed for £40m from Porto in the summer but he has only managed to score twice so far for the Cherries. The chance to get one over his compatriot, Ederson, will be one he will to grab with both hands.
Predicted line-ups
Alex Scott is certain to miss out for Bournemouth while Kepa, Luis Siniesterra and Philip Billing are all doubts. Man City's injury list is much longer with several key players missing including the new Ballon d'Or winner, Rodri, Kevin de Bruyne, Kyle Walker and Jack Grealish.
Bournemouth: Kepa – Smith, Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kerkez – Christie, Cook – Semenyo, Tavernier, Ouattara – Evanilson
Man City: Ederson – Lewis, Stones, Dias, Gvardiol – Kovacic, Gundogan, Nunes – Foden, Haaland, Bernardo
Anything else catch the eye?
Six of Man City's last eight domestic matches have seen goals go in at both ends of the pitch, suggesting they are missing the protection that Rodri offers in the middle of the pitch. Meanwhile, Bournemouth have scored at least once in three of their home league matches this season. Both teams to score has been priced at 8/13 by Betfred.
This English Premier League match between Bournemouth and Manchester City will be played on Nov 2, 2024 and kick off at 15:00. Check below for our tipsters best Bournemouth vs Manchester City prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
