Manchester City Chase Another European Win
Manchester City return to Champions League action at the Etihad Stadium, hosting Borussia Dortmund in what promises to be one of the most intense fixtures of Matchday 4.
The Cityzens, unbeaten in the league phase so far, have collected seven points from their opening three matches — victories against Napoli and Villarreal followed by a draw in Monaco. Pep Guardiola’s men are in spectacular form domestically, winning nine of their last 12 matches in all competitions.
Their dominant rhythm has been powered by Erling Haaland, who scored twice at the weekend and will now face his former club Dortmund for the first time since leaving Germany.
“He’s in exceptional condition,” Guardiola told UEFA.com. “Facing your former team always brings emotions, but Haaland plays to win, not to remember.”
Borussia Dortmund Ready to Challenge
Meanwhile, Niko Kovač’s Borussia Dortmund arrive in Manchester full of confidence. After beating Augsburg 1–0 at the weekend, BVB climbed to third place in the Bundesliga and remain unbeaten in Europe this season, collecting seven points as well.
Even without Haaland, Dortmund’s attack has found consistency through Serhou Guirassy, who has already netted seven goals in 13 appearances. His speed and movement could expose City’s occasionally shaky defence.
“We know City are favourites,” Kovač told reporters, “but our squad has enough courage to surprise them.”
Team News: Guardiola’s Rotation Dilemma
City are almost at full strength. The only confirmed absentee is Mateo Kovačić, sidelined with an ankle injury. Rodri is back but might not start, with Nico González likely to keep his place in midfield.
Expect Guardiola to rotate slightly ahead of the weekend clash with Liverpool, possibly bringing in Rayan Aït-Nouri, John Stones, and Tijjani Reijnders.
Predicted Man City XI (4-1-4-1):
Donnarumma; Nunes, Stones, Dias, Aït-Nouri; González; Savinho, Reijnders, Foden, Doku; Haaland
Dortmund Team Updates
Dortmund welcome back Nico Schlotterbeck and Niklas Süle, both recovering from illness and minor injuries. Promising youngster Julien Duranville returned to training and could feature from the bench.
Predicted Borussia Dortmund XI (3-4-2-1):
Kobel; Schlotterbeck, Anton, Bensebaini; Ryerson, Groß, Sabitzer, Svensson; Brandt, Adeyemi; Guirassy
Haaland’s Humble Words Amid Messi-Ronaldo Comparisons
Off the pitch, Erling Haaland made headlines this week by downplaying comparisons with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
“No one can get close to them,” Haaland said in an interview with the BBC. “I’m far away from their level — they’re two legends of the game.”
The Norwegian striker has already scored 26 goals this season for club and country, yet insists that his focus remains on improving every match.
Head-to-Head Record
- Last 5 Meetings: Man City 3 wins, Dortmund 1 win, 1 draw
- Last Match: Man City 3–1 Borussia Dortmund (Oct 25, 2022 – Champions League)
Historically, City have been dominant at home against BVB, and Guardiola’s men have won all but one of their Etihad fixtures this season.
Prediction & Analysis
Given current form and the firepower of Haaland, Phil Foden, and Jeremy Doku, it’s hard to bet against Manchester City.
However, Dortmund’s counter-attacking threat — led by Guirassy and Adeyemi — could test City’s defence. Expect an open, high-tempo battle under the lights at the Etihad.
Prediction: 🏆 Manchester City 3–1 Borussia Dortmund
City’s attacking depth should prove decisive as they move closer to securing early qualification for the Champions League Round of 16.
Expert Verdict
Manchester City’s consistency, tactical adaptability, and Haaland’s determination make them the clear favourites. Dortmund will need discipline and efficiency to avoid another Etihad defeat, but the odds heavily favour the Premier League champions.
