Preview of Manchester City vs AFC Bournemouth on May 20, 2025. Get predicted lineups, key players, recent form, and what’s at stake in Kevin De Bruyne’s final Etihad appearance.
Manchester City and AFC Bournemouth are set to face off in a Premier League clash on Monday, May 20, 2025, at 19:00 UTC (12:30 AM IST on May 21) at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester .
Team Form and Standing
Manchester City: Currently 6th in the Premier League standings, City recently suffered a 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final.City has looked more stable currently in the league lately but were inconsistent earlier in the season. The FA Cup final loss was a major blow. Rodri’s return has helped defensively, while Kevin De Bruyne’s upcoming departure is emotionally significant for both fans and players. They are unbeaten in their last 6 league games, with 4 wins and 2 draws.
AFC Bournemouth: Sitting 10th in the league, Bournemouth aims to replicate their earlier success against City and solidify a top-half finish. Bournemouth has shown resilience and attacking flair, especially away from home. Their midfield press and use of wide players have caused problems for top sides. While they’ve lacked consistency, their earlier win over City (2–1 in November) proves they are capable of an upset.
Given the historical context and recent performances, this match promises to be a compelling encounter with significant implications for both teams.
Match Significance
This fixture holds special importance as it marks Kevin De Bruyne’s final appearance at the Etihad Stadium after a decade with Manchester City . The club has organized tributes and special events to honor his contributions.
Recent Encounters
Premier League (Nov 2, 2024): Bournemouth secured a historic 2-1 victory over Manchester City at the Vitality Stadium, marking their first-ever league win against the Citizens after 20 unsuccessful attempts .
FA Cup Quarterfinal (Mar 30, 2025): Manchester City overcame an early deficit to defeat Bournemouth 2-1, advancing to the semi-finals. Omar Marmoush netted the decisive goal, while Erling Haaland had a penalty saved .
Key Players
Manchester City
Kevin De Bruyne – Final home game; playmaker and leader.
Erling Haaland – Top scorer; major goal threat.
Rodri – Midfield anchor; crucial for control.
Phil Foden – Creative spark; in strong form.
AFC Bournemouth
Dominic Solanke – Leading scorer; focal point in attack.
Justin Kluivert – Fast, tricky winger; dangerous on the break.
Lewis Cook – Midfield engine; key in transitions.
Marcos Senesi – Key defender; must contain Haaland.
Predicted Lineup
Manchester City (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Ederson
Defenders: Matheus Nunes (RB), Rúben Dias (CB), Joško Gvardiol (CB), Rico Lewis (LB)
Midfielders: Nico González, İlkay Gündoğan
Attacking Midfielders: Savinho (RW), Kevin De Bruyne (CAM), Omar Marmoush (LW)
Striker: Erling Haaland
Note: Kevin De Bruyne is expected to start in his final home game for Manchester City, with a potential second-half substitution to allow fans to pay tribute.
AFC Bournemouth (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Kepa Arrizabalaga
Defenders: Adam Smith (RB), Illya Zabarnyi (CB), Dean Huijsen (CB), Milos Kerkez (LB)
Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Lewis Cook
Attacking Midfielders: Justin Kluivert (RW), David Brooks (CAM), Antoine Semenyo (LW)
Striker: Evanilson
Note: Justin Kluivert is expected to return to the starting lineup, replacing the injured Alex Scott.
Conclusion
The upcoming clash between Manchester City and AFC Bournemouth on May 20, 2025, is more than just a Premier League fixture:
For City, it marks the emotional farewell of Kevin De Bruyne at the Etihad, while also being crucial for securing a European qualification spot after an up-and-down season. With Rodri back and Haaland leading the line, they remain strong favorites—especially at home.
For Bournemouth, it’s a chance to cap a solid season with another strong showing against a top side. They’ve already beaten City once this season and will look to replicate that success with Solanke and Kluivert posing real threats on the counter.
Prediction Outlook:
Manchester City will be highly motivated to deliver a fitting tribute to De Bruyne and bounce back from their FA Cup disappointment. But Bournemouth’s energy and away form could make this closer than expected.
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