Crystal Palace - Manchester City

Erling Haaland remains the focal point for Manchester City as they travel to face Crystal Palace on 28 August 2026 for this Premier League matchday 2 encounter. The prolific forward, supported by Phil Foden and Antoine Semenyo in the expected XI, will look to build on the momentum of a recent 2-1 victory against Bournemouth. With Jeremy Doku sidelined through injury, City will rely on their core defensive unit, including Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol, to maintain stability after a challenging Community Shield defeat earlier in August.

Crystal Palace enter the fixture looking to recover from a 2-0 loss to Everton in their opening match. Jean-Philippe Mateta and Edward Nketiah are expected to lead the line at Selhurst Park, supported by the creative efforts of Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada. While Chadi Riad is unavailable, the hosts will aim to improve upon their recent head-to-head record against City, which includes a 3-0 defeat in May 2026.