Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Manchester City, unlike their opponents, played a midweek match, and not just any match, but against Tottenham Hotspur. Will this extra game hinder them from claiming another Premier League victory?
Bournemouth
Kepa Arrizabalaga is sidelined with an adductor muscle injury, but Bournemouth continue to concede a few goals with Mark Travers in goal: a 1:1 draw with Aston Villa. Credit should also go to their attack, as the last free kick in the 96th minute secured them the draw. However, their game at Villa Park was overly rough and tense, resulting in 13 yellow cards, with Bournemouth receiving 6. This aggression could lead to dismissals against Manchester City. As for other performances under Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth rarely go over the top; the total under 2.5 hit in 7 out of 10 matches this season.
Manchester City
Manchester City didn't just face Tottenham Hotspur, they even lost to them (1:2). This marks the champion’s first defeat of the season after a 14-match unbeaten streak. Pep Guardiola fielded a half-reserve team, but there were few outright second-string players: Stefan Ortega in goal, James McAtee and Nico O'Reilly in midfield, with the rest being regulars in rotation. The Manchester side had more attempts at goal (15-11) but fewer on target (3-7). Scoring one goal from three attempts is still an acceptable outcome. Their previous outing against Southampton was worse: one goal from eight shots on target.
Bournemouth vs Manchester City Prediction
The question of the winner is hardly raised: in the 21st century, the clubs have met 15 times, and Manchester City have always emerged victorious without exception. The last time Bournemouth took points from them was in 1999 when both teams were in the First Division (0:0). For greater returns, we suggest betting on the visitors to win and the total under 3.5, as this total has hit in most of Manchester City's recent Premier League matches (four of the last six).
