Manchester City vs. Wolves: Reigning Champions Seek Rebound, Wolves Fight for Survival
Manchester City, reeling from recent Premier League and Champions League setbacks, host a Wolverhampton Wanderers side showing signs of resurgence but still deeply entrenched in the relegation zone. This match is crucial for City's title aspirations, while Wolves desperately need points to fuel their 'great escape' from the bottom. Focus will be on Erling Haaland's ability to rediscover his scoring touch and Wolves' capacity to extend their recent unbeaten run.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
For Manchester City, this encounter against Wolves at the Etihad Stadium carries significant weight. They currently trail league leaders Arsenal by seven points and have suffered two consecutive defeats across all competitions, making a victory essential to reignite their title challenge. While Pep Guardiola's refreshed squad enjoyed an eight-game winning streak at the end of 2025, their start to 2026 has been sluggish, with only two wins in seven matches. Meanwhile, Wolverhampton Wanderers find themselves at the bottom of the Premier League table with just 8 points, a daunting 14 points adrift of safety. Despite their precarious position, Wolves have shown recent resilience, and this match is crucial for them to accumulate points and avoid slipping further into relegation trouble.
Recent Form
Manchester City's recent form has been concerning, as they have suffered two consecutive losses in all competitions, including a 3-1 Champions League defeat to Bodo/Glimt and a 2-0 Premier League loss to Manchester United. They are also winless in their last four league matches (D3 L1) and have only secured two victories in their first seven games of 2026. In contrast, Wolves have shown improved form recently, going unbeaten in their last four Premier League matches (W1 D3), earning six points. Across all competitions, they are five games unbeaten (W2 D3), including draws against Manchester United and Everton away from home, demonstrating growing resilience.
Key Players & Injury News
For Manchester City, striker Erling Haaland remains the attacking focal point. He leads the league with 20 goals and has a remarkable record of 10 Premier League goals against Wolves, more than any other opponent. Phil Foden and new signing Marc Guehi are also key figures; Guehi is expected to make his debut and bolster the defense. However, City is grappling with significant injuries, with Savinho, Mateo Kovacic, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and Oscar Bobb all sidelined. Matheus Nunes is also a doubt. Gianluigi Donnarumma is expected to start in goal. For Wolves, key players include Hwang Hee-chan and Tolu Arokodare. On the injury front, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, Toti Gomes (hamstring), and Leon Chiwome (knee) are out, while Tawanda Chirewa (illness) is a doubt.