Pep Guardiola’s revitalized Manchester City squad concluded 2025 with an impressive eight consecutive victories across competitions, but the start of 2026 has proven to be much more challenging, as reported by softfootball .
This new year has seen the Citizens secure only two wins from their initial seven encounters, arriving at this fixture following two disappointing losses that have affected team morale.
The most significant setback was the 3-1 defeat in the Champions League against Bodo/Glimt, a surprising outcome that leaves City with challenges ahead in European competitions.
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A few days prior, they suffered a2-0 defeat to Manchester United in the Premier League, further extending their league winless streak and allowing Arsenal to widen their lead at the top of the table.
Nonetheless, there have been indications of recovery for City in the league, highlighted by a crucial away victory against Newcastle, which showcased their ability to perform under pressure.
The club also shared a light-hearted update on their official X handle to show that team spirit remains high.
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In contrast, Wolverhampton Wanderers have shown improvement in 2026. They remain unbeaten in their last four Premier League contests, demonstrating greater defensive organization, although they still trail at the bottom of the table with a considerable distance to climb for safety.
Historically, the Etihad Stadium has presented a tough environment for Wolves. City has emerged victorious in 10 of their last 11 league encounters against them, scoring a total of 32 goals. Despite recent challenges, Guardiola’s team is considered favored to win due to their quality, depth, and home advantage.
Team News
Manchester City is facing multiple injury concerns, with Josko Gvardiol, John Stones, Mateo Kovacic, Ruben Dias, Oscar Bobb, and Savinho all unavailable.
Both Matheus Nunes and Nico Gonzalez will be evaluated prior to kickoff. Bernardo Silva returns from suspension, and new acquisitions Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo may be included in the starting lineup. Rodri remains eligible despite his red card in the midweek match.
For Wolves, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, Toti Gomes, and Leon Chiwome are out, while Tawanda Chirewa remains a doubt. The defensive trio of Mosquera, Santiago Bueno, and Krejci will likely maintain their position in front of goalkeeper Jose Sa.
Possible Lineups
Manchester City:
Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Reilly; Gonzalez, Bernardo; Semenyo, Foden, Doku; Haaland
Wolverhampton Wanderers:
Sa; Mosquera, S. Bueno, Krejci; Tchatchoua, Andre, Mane, J. Gomes, H. Bueno; Hwang, Strand Larsen
Prediction
Even with recent setbacks, such as the 3-1 loss to Bodo/Glimt, City has demonstrated potential for recovery, particularly after their recent away win over Newcastle. Playing at the Etihad, Guardiola’s team is expected to leverage their quality to defeat a Wolves side that has struggled to find the back of the net.
Where to watch
In the United Kingdom, the match will not be broadcast live on TV or available for online streaming due to the Saturday 3:00 PM blackout provision. However, radio coverage can be found on BBC Radio 5 Live. Highlights will be accessible on the Sky Sports app shortly after the match and later on Match of the Day.
For viewers in the United States, the match will be available live on Peacock, NBCSN, and Fubo. In Canada, it can be streamed via Fubo Sports on DAZN.
Internationally, various local broadcasters and streaming platforms will provide coverage. Fans can check the official Manchester City TV listings for options in their specific regions. In India, the match is available on JioHotstar, in Australia on Stan Sport, and in South Africa on Showmax.
