Sunderland vs Man City: Premier League Preview, Team News & Stats

Sunderland will host Manchester City in an exciting Premier League matchup, continuing their historical rivalry. The Black Cats aim to break City’s winning streak, having lost their last three home games against them.

Sunderland vs Man City: Historical Context

In previous encounters, Sunderland enjoyed success against City, winning four consecutive home games at the Stadium of Light before the current losing streak. Since their 2-2 draw in April 2014, Manchester City has dominated, winning their last seven league matches against Sunderland. Prior to this, the Citizens had a longer winning run of nine matches against the Black Cats between December 2002 and December 2009.

Previous New Year’s Day Matches

This will mark the third Premier League meeting between the two teams on New Year’s Day. Sunderland triumphed 1-0 at home in 2012, whereas Manchester City won 3-2 at the Etihad in 2015. Interestingly, Sunderland has not lost their first match of the calendar year for the past seven years, achieving three wins and four draws since a home defeat to Barnsley in the Championship in 2018.

Recent Performance Trends

• Manchester City has won their first league game in 18 of the last 19 years, including a streak of 13 consecutive wins.
• The only exception was the 1-0 defeat to Sunderland on New Year’s Day in 2012.
• City has scored in every Premier League match in January since losing 4-0 to Everton in 2017.
• They hold the record for the longest scoring streak in January games in top-flight history.

Manchester City’s Away Performance

City boasts an impressive away record against promoted clubs, losing just once in their last 30 away Premier League matches. They have recorded 23 wins and 6 draws, maintaining an unbeaten streak in their last 17 away games since a loss to Norwich City in September 2019.

Key Players to Watch

Erling Haaland will be making his debut at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light in the Premier League. The striker has scored at 22 out of the 23 venues he has played at, with Anfield being one of the few exceptions. Additionally, Rayan Cherki has been pivotal for City, contributing to eight goals in his last nine Premier League appearances, showcasing his ability to both score and assist.

This match promises to be a key fixture as the season progresses, with both teams looking to assert their dominance early in the New Year. Fans can expect an intense battle, reflecting the competitive history of these clubs.