Overview
- Kick-off is 3pm GMT on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the Etihad Stadium, with no live UK TV coverage due to the 3pm blackout.
- Pep Guardiola has indicated Rodri is close to returning from a hamstring problem, while Mateo Kovacic remains absent.
- Sunderland list only Aji Alese and Habib Diarra as injury concerns, with both expected to be available next week.
- The visitors’ disciplined 4-4-2 that earned a 1-1 at Anfield featured direct counter-attacks through Brian Brobbey and creator Enzo Le Fee.
- City’s attack led by Erling Haaland remains prolific, though recent defensive lapses, including the 5-4 win at Fulham, highlight an area of concern.