7M - Match Preview: Manchester City vs Newcastle United

On February 21, 2026, Manchester City will host Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium in a pivotal Premier League clash. This match is crucial for City as they aim to capitalize on Arsenal's recent slip-up against Wolves.

Following a 5-1 aggregate victory over Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-finals earlier this month, the Magpies will be seeking revenge.

Match Preview

The 2025-26 season marks the first time two English clubs, Arsenal and Manchester City, remain in contention for a historic quadruple as March approaches. Both sides progressed in the FA Cup last weekend, and City's recent form includes a four-match winning streak across all competitions.

City currently sits second in the Premier League, five points behind Arsenal, who drew 2-2 at Wolves. A win for City could reduce the gap to just two points, especially as Arsenal prepares for a challenging North London derby against Tottenham.

Defensively, Manchester City has improved significantly, allowing only eight goals in their last 12 league games. They have won their last six home matches against Newcastle without conceding, extending their unbeaten run at the Etihad against the Magpies to 21 matches.

Newcastle, however, has found their form recently, winning three consecutive away games, including a 2-1 victory over Tottenham and a commanding 3-1 win over Aston Villa in the FA Cup.

Despite their recent success, Newcastle struggles against top-tier opponents, having not won any of their last 10 away games against top-half teams. Their record at the Etihad is particularly poor, with 20 visits resulting in no wins.

Team News

Manchester City will be without Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic due to injuries, while Erling Haaland is expected to return after missing the FA Cup match. Max Alleyne will be assessed after sustaining a knock.

On Newcastle's side, Bruno Guimaraes, Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar, and Emil Krafth are all sidelined with injuries. Joelinton has recently returned from injury and may start alongside Sandro Tonali in midfield.

Predicted Lineups

Manchester City: Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Guehi, Ait-Nouri; Rodri, O'Reilly; Bernardo, Cherki; Semenyo, Haaland

Newcastle United: Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Burn, Hall; Joelinton, Tonali; Murphy, Woltemade, Barnes; Gordon

Final Prediction: Manchester City 3-1 Newcastle United

City's strong home form and Newcastle's struggles away against top teams suggest a victory for the hosts as they aim to narrow the gap in the title race.