Manchester City vs Newcastle United Premier League
Saturday
19th August 2023
Etihad Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 2 of the Premier League fixture between Manchester City and Newcastle United.
Manchester City vs Newcastle United: Preview
Manchester City form analysis
City’s league last season was inconsistent, winning 1, drawing 2 and losing 1 of their last 4 games. They secured a vital win against title rivals Chelsea (1-0) but dropped points in draws with Brighton (1-1) and Brentford (0-1 loss after conceding late). City scored just 3 goals in 4 games, with Haaland only scoring once. Their uncharacteristic struggles in attack proved costly. Defensively City were reasonable, conceding 3 goals across the games, but the late concession against Brentford was a pivotal moment.
Against Burnley, Manchester City took the lead early through Haaland’s close range finish from a corner. They scored a second soon after through a clinical Haaland strike assisted by Alvarez. City controlled possession and pinned Burnley back for most of the match. They added a third late on via Rodri’s header from a set piece for a comfortable win. De Bruyne going off injured in the first half disrupted City’s rhythm. But it was still a dominant victory to go top of the table.
Newcastle United form analysis
Newcastle’s form at the end of last season was inconsistent, drawing 3 and winning 1 of their final 4 league games. The sole victory came in the 4-1 hammering of Brighton at home.
However, Newcastle then drew their next 3 matches against Leicester (0-0), Liverpool (1-1) and Crystal Palace (0-0).
Scoring dried up with just 1 goal in their last 3 games, highlighting issues in attack. Positively, they remained defensively solid, conceding just 2 goals and keeping 2 clean sheets. Away from home Newcastle ground out three consecutive draws to maintain their unbeaten road record. In summary, Newcastle’s form stalled after the Brighton win. Rediscovering their attacking spark will be key next season.
Against Villa, Newcastle dominated the game and were clinical in attack. They took an early lead through Tonali before Villa equalized. Isak and Wilson scored great goals to extend their advantage. The midfield trio of Guimaraes, Tonali and Almiron controlled possession well. Defensively Newcastle were solid and coped with Villa’s counterattacks. Overall a comfortable home win to continue their push for a Champions League spot.
