The Citizens have lost only once since returning from the first international break, chalking up eight victories across all competitions throughout that time.
Despite drawing three of their last five Premier League encounters, Bournemouth are still closest to catching early leaders Arsenal.
Recommended Bet: Manchester City to win and both teams to score
Manchester City entertain high-flying Bournemouth on Sunday afternoon, after securing a place in the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup in midweek. Meanwhile, the Cherries head north with an extra spring in their step, having beaten Nottingham Forest last weekend following a sensational start to the season.
The latest Manchester City vs Bournemouth odds are available on LiveScore Bet
Team news
Pep Guardiola almost has a full complement to choose from, although Rodri’s ongoing injury issues are a constant source of discomfort. The Spanish midfielder could return after missing Wednesday’s 3-1 triumph over Swansea City, but will likely see his game time limited as Pep seeks to protect one of his prized assets.
There was also a question mark over Erling Haaland’s fitness following his collision with a Villa Park goalpost, but the Norwegian powerhouse is said to be available. Phil Foden could come into City’s starting XI at the expense of Rayan Cherki, with the Stockport-born playmaker poised to make his 200th Premier League appearance.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has no fresh injuries to contend with, but may start to have one or two selection headaches at the top end of the pitch. Teenage sensation Eli Kroupi has been a more than able deputy to Evanilson, who has missed the last two games due to a calf problem. Furthermore, Turkish centre-forward Enes Unal made his long-awaited return last weekend, after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament at the beginning of the year.
The latest Manchester City vs Bournemouth odds are available at LiveScore Bet
The stats
No English top-flight outfit has scored more goals than Manchester City this term, who have found the net on 17 occasions already.
Although they find themselves occupying second place in the Premier League table, Bournemouth have picked up only five points from their opening four away clashes.
Andoni Iraola’s men have committed 113 fouls this season, more than every other team in the top ten. Meanwhile, the Sky Blues have given away only 81 free-kicks, which is fewer than any other side in the division.
The latest Manchester City vs Bournemouth odds are available at LiveScore Bet
Prediction
Although both teams to score failed to land in six of Manchester City’s first 14 fixtures across all competitions, we expect goalmouth action at either end on Sunday afternoon. Bournemouth may not have been as impressive on the road as they have been at the Vitality Stadium, but the visitors will undoubtedly carry a genuine threat in the final third.
However, the omens look good for the hosts. The Citizens have won all eight of their home Premier League meetings with Bournemouth, delivering a barrage of goals in the process. Moreover, the serial English champions are experienced in handling these types of top-of-the-table clashes, whereas the Cherries are in uncharted territory.
It may be a tough shift against a plucky opponent, but expect Manchester City’s quality to shine through in the end.
Back Manchester City to win and both teams to score at 7/4 with LiveScore Bet
The latest Manchester City vs Bournemouth odds are available at LiveScore Bet
