Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Manchester City
Before the international break, Manchester City fell to back-to-back defeats against Tottenham Hotspur (0:2) and Brighton & Hove Albion (1:2). The team left plenty of space in advanced areas, and their short passing in their own half was error-strewn. In the derby with Manchester United (3:0), Gianluigi Donnarumma made his debut for the team; the Italian added reliability to the defence, conceding nothing from 1.52 xGA. A major bonus for Manchester City was the return of Rodrigo Hernández — the holding midfielder is not yet ready to play all 90 minutes, but his quality restores control of possession.
SSC Napoli
Napoli avoided major upheaval in the summer transfer window. The reigning Italian champion added Kevin De Bruyne, Rasmus Højlund and Sam Beukema, and each found the net against ACF Fiorentina (3:1) in the last round. Even so, the squad lacks Romelu Lukaku — the Belgian would certainly be the first-choice option up front for a trip to Manchester. In Serie A, Napoli have conceded only one goal across the opening three matchdays, and in the league they remain, alongside Juventus, the only team yet to drop points.
Manchester City vs SSC Napoli Prediction
Another marquee tie in the first round of the group stage promises intrigue. We will not take a side, because Manchester City and Napoli can swing the match at any moment, but goals should be at a premium.
