Premier League 2025-2026: Bournemouth-Manchester City, the likely lineups

After Monday night’s 1-0 win by Arteta’s Arsenal against Burnely, the Premier League focus shifts to the Vitality Stadium where, at 8:30 p.m., a real crossroads for both the title race and Europe is staged. Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth, fresh off their goalless successes against Crystal Palace and Fulham, will defend sixth place on 55 points to give themselves a historic European berth. On the Cherries’ road, however, is a Manchester City side obliged to win. Pep Guardiola’s boys, despite the fatigues of the Wembley final, cannot afford any missteps if they want to keep alive the title duel with Arsenal. With the boost of Erling Haaland and the enthusiasm of the great former Semenyo, the Citizens will try to win the three points to postpone any verdict until the last day of the championship.

Iraola will present himself with his usual form. Protecting Petrovic, the defensive line sees the experience of Smith and the drive of Truffert on the outside lanes, with Hill and Senesi in the center. The midfield will consist of Adams’ physicality and Scott’s geometry. In the three-quarter, Rayan, Kroupi and Tavernier will have the task of unhinging the opponents’ rearguard and supplying the lone forward Evanilson.

After the League Cup victory, Donnarumma returns in goal, protected by the central pair Khusanov-Guehi supported by full-backs Nunes and O’Reilly. In the midfield, Bernardo Silva’s tactical intelligence will move alongside Rodri, while in the three-quarter, former big man Semenyo, Cherki’s flair and Doku’s speed will act in support of offensive terminal Erling Haaland.

Probable formations

Bournemouth (4-2-3-1): Petrovic; Smith, Hill, Senesi, Truffert; Adams, Scott; Rayan, Kroupi, Tavernier; Evanilson. All. Iraola.

Manchester City (4-2-3-1): Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Reilly; Bernardo Silva, Rodri; Semenyo, Cherki, Doku; Haaland. All. Guardiola.