Manchester City host Bournemouth as Premier League season begins
Manchester City welcome Bournemouth to the Etihad Stadium as the Premier League season gets under way, with both sides looking to build early momentum after contrasting recent runs of results.
City's last five matches have brought two wins, one draw and two defeats, a pattern that leaves them short of the consistency Bournemouth have managed. The visitors have taken three wins from their own last five, alongside a draw and a single loss, giving them a slight edge in recent form heading into the trip north.
A history of close contests
The two clubs' recent meetings have rarely been one-sided. Their most recent encounter, in May 2026, ended 1-1 at Bournemouth, while City won 3-1 away in November 2025 and again by the same scoreline at home in May 2025. An FA Cup meeting in March 2025 also went City's way, 2-1, but Bournemouth have shown they can get the better of their opponents too, winning 2-1 in November 2024.
That mixed pattern suggests Sunday's fixture is unlikely to be a formality for either side, even with City on home soil for the visit.
With the season only two matchdays old, an early statement result would carry weight for either club as they look to set the tone for the campaign ahead.