Newcastle United host Manchester City at St. James’ Park as City aim to close the gap on Premier League leaders. The Magpies, meanwhile, are under pressure after recent losses and are in desperate need of a bounce-back result.
Newcastle’s form has been shaky. They’ve won only three out of 11 league games and now find themselves perilously close to the relegation zone. Meanwhile, Manchester City are rediscovering their finishing touch, and a win here would bring them uncomfortably close to the summit.
Eddie Howe speaks to the media ahead of tomorrow's visit of Man City to St. James' Park 🎙️
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) November 21, 2025
You can watch today's press conference as live on the Official Newcastle United App now 📲 pic.twitter.com/5dvYw3HaNr
Eddie Howe’s side come into this match missing key personnel. Defender Dan Burn is suspended after a red card, while Yoane Wissa remains sidelined with a knee injury. Midfielders Nick Pope and Joelinton are doubtful after picking up knocks during the international break.
Anthony Gordon, Will Osula, and Tino Livramento are also being assessed. Howe is likely to continue with a central defensive pairing of Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman, while young Nick Woltemade, who scored internationally, could start up front.
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Manchester City face squad selection dilemmas of their own. Mateo Kovacic is ruled out with an ankle/heel injury, and Rodri’s fitness is being monitored ahead of the trip. However, Guardiola looks set to name a similar side to the one that dominated Liverpool.
Nico González could retain his place in midfield, and Guardiola may team him with Bernardo Silva. In attack, Erling Haaland will lead the line, supported by an exciting front three of Jérémy Doku, Phil Foden, and Rayan Cherki.
Backing over 3.5 goals seems like a compelling bet for this fixture. Manchester City’s attacking firepower has been ruthless. They’ve scored in each of their last 33 Premier League matches against Newcastle, a streak among the longest one-team scoring runs in the division.
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s recent struggles at the back and their need for a response make them vulnerable. City are coming off an impressive 3–0 win over Liverpool, showing they are rediscovering their rhythm. With both sides likely to push, Newcastle to avoid slipping further, City to close the gap on Arsenal, goals could flow.
Erling Haaland remains the focal point of City’s attack, and the odds here reflect his importance. He is on the verge of reaching 100 Premier League goals in just his 108th appearance. His incredible scoring form shows no signs of slowing.
He’s failed to score in only a few of his appearances this season, and his goals almost single-handedly drive City forward. Although Haaland has historically found goals hard to come by against Newcastle, his overall dominance makes him a strong pick.
Jeremy Doku’s creativity and explosive pace make him a tempting bet to either score or assist. He’s played a key role in City’s attack: last season he finished with 8 goals and 11 assists across all competitions. Pep Guardiola has praised his acceleration in the final third, highlighting Doku as “an incredible football player” who thrives with the ball at his feet. With Haaland leading the line, Doku is likely to be involved in build-up play and chance creation, making this bet attractive at +170.
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Haaland is expected to find the net at least once, and with Doku’s creativity, City should generate enough scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, Newcastle, buoyed by their home pitch, may hit on the counter or from a set piece, but their defense is unlikely to hold back City completely.
A 1-3 win for Manchester City looks like the most plausible outcome. Newcastle are under pressure and vulnerable at home, while City are in impressive form and carry a historic dominance over the Magpies.
soccer Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.
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