Manchester City Aim for Strong Start in 2026 Against Sunderland

Manchester City is looking to kick off 2026 on a positive note as they prepare to face Sunderland in the Premier League on New Year’s Day.

The Cityzens fell behind league leaders Arsenal earlier this week, but a victory against Sunderland could reduce that gap to just two points. Under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, City enters this match with a wealth of confidence, having achieved eight consecutive victories across various competitions—including a decisive 3-0 win against Sunderland in early December.

With a packed calendar of nine matches spanning four competitions in January, rotation will be essential. However, injuries and player unavailability may restrict Guardiola’s options. Nonetheless, he still possesses an array of talented players at his disposal.

Predicted Manchester City Lineup vs. Sunderland (4-1-4-1)

Starting XI

• GK: Gianluigi Donnarumma
  Sunderland might not be known for their scoring prowess, but around 80% of their goals this season have been netted at home, where they remain unbeaten in the Premier League. Expect Donnarumma to be actively involved.

• RB: Rico Lewis
  Guardiola will likely take advantage of opportunities to rotate his lineup, and right back is a position that could see changes as Matheus Nunes has been heavily utilized lately. Lewis may step in.

• CB: Rúben Dias
  Dias scored a sensational goal in the previous encounter and will focus on neutralizing threats from Sunderland’s attacking players like Wilson Isidor and Brian Brobbey.

• CB: Joško Gvardiol
  Gvardiol also found the net in the last fixture against Sunderland, adding to his tally for the Cityzens.

• LB: Nico O’Reilly
  With Rayan Aït-Nouri away at the Africa Cup of Nations, O’Reilly may have to continue despite his recent heavy workload.

• DM: Nico González
  Rodri has recently made a return but will gradually work his way back into the first team. González will likely retain his spot against Sunderland.

• DM: Tijjani Reijnders
  After scoring in consecutive matches against West Ham United and Nottingham Forest, Reijnders has become a significant attacking threat.

• RW: Savinho
  Another position open for rotation is right wing, where Savinho could potentially replace Bernardo Silva as the City looks to secure a high-profile signing soon.

• AM: Rayan Cherki
  Cherki was impressive in their last match, providing an assist and scoring against Forest. He will aim to maintain his fine form.

• LW: Phil Foden
  Despite Cherki’s outstanding performances, Foden remains a key contributor, having scored with a well-placed finish following Cherki’s assist in the prior clash with Sunderland.

• ST: Erling Haaland
  Haaland has only had a couple of matches without scoring this season. Following a blank against Nottingham Forest, he will be eager to find the net against Sunderland for the first time in his career.

Summary

As Manchester City gears up for this crucial encounter, the potential for lineup changes could play a significant role in their strategy. With key players ready to step up, fans can anticipate an exciting showdown at the Stadium of Light.