Manchester City - Bournemouth

Manchester City host AFC Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on 23 August 2026 for the opening matchday of the Premier League season. The hosts look to bounce back following a difficult 0-3 defeat against Arsenal in the Community Shield on 16 August 2026. For this fixture, Manchester City are expected to field an attacking lineup featuring Erling Haaland and Phil Foden, though they must navigate the absences of Matheus Nunes, Jeremy Doku, and Savinho due to injury.

AFC Bournemouth arrive at the Etihad Stadium looking to build on their resilient performance in a 1-1 draw against Manchester City on 19 May 2026. The visitors face significant personnel challenges, with Eli Junior Kroupi and Tyler Adams sidelined by injury and Ryan Christie unavailable through suspension. With Evanilson expected to lead the line, Bournemouth will aim to disrupt the hosts' rhythm in what promises to be a testing start to the new campaign.