
Sunderland vs Man City Prediction, Betting Pick and Latest Premier League Odds on New Year's Day
Sunderland continue to fly high but now have to host Manchester City, who are looking to close the gap on Arsenal at the top of the Premier League. Find our predictions, best bets, and team news for the game below.
Tom Jacobs - January 1, 2026, 7:00 AM EST
4 Minute ReadSunderland vs Man City Predictions, Best Bets and Lineup News
Sunderland sit in 7th place, and the year inside the top 5, which would be a dream result after a long time away from the Premier League before this season. They face a tough challenge, however, as Manchester City arrive at the Stadium of Light in good form and determined to close the gap on Arsenal.
Sunderland vs Man City Form
The Black Cats come into this match having drawn their last game 1-1 at home against Leeds. Sunderland have proven to be a tough team to beat, losing only two of their last 11 Premier League games. Their home form is particularly impressive, as they are one of only two teams unbeaten at home this season.
Man City are in scintillating form, having won their last match 2-1 away at Nottingham Forest. This victory marked their eighth consecutive win in all competitions, keeping them within touching distance of the top of the table. The Citizens have been scoring goals for fun, bagging at least two in each of their last six Premier League matches.
Sunderland vs Man City Head to Head
The most recent encounter between these two teams saw Man City secure a dominant 3-0 victory at home back in December.
Historically, Man City have dominated this fixture, winning all of the last six meetings between the sides. Sunderland will be hoping to end that streak and improve on their poor record against City.
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Sunderland vs Man City Odds
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Sunderland vs Man City Probable Lineups
Sunderland (4-2-3-1): Roefs; Cirkin, Alderete, Mukiele, Hume; Geertruida, Xhaka; Adingra, Fée, Rigg; Brobbey
Man City (4-3-2-1): Donnarumma; O'Reilly, Gvardiol, Dias, Nunes; González, Reijnders, Silva; Foden, Cherki; Haaland
Sunderland vs Man City Team News
Sunderland's injury woes have deepened with Dan Ballard ruled out with a knee injury. Luke O'Nien returns from suspension, but several players are away on international duty. Dennis Cirkin is likely to continue at left-back after making his first appearance of the season in their last match.
Man City have a few injury concerns of their own, with Mateo Kovacic sidelined after undergoing surgery, and Jeremy Doku also out injured. John Stones and Oscar Bobb are doubtful. Rayan Aït-Nouri and Omar Marmoush are unavailable due to international duty.
Sunderland vs Man City Match Facts
- Man City have won their last 8 matches against Sunderland in all competitions.
- Man City have scored at least 2 goals in 9 of their last 10 matches against Sunderland in all competitions.
- Sunderland have seen under 2.5 goals in 8 of their last 10 home matches against Man City in all competitions.
Prediction: Sunderland 1-3 Man City
Although Sunderland are tough to beat at home, Manchester City's attacking prowess and overall form make them overwhelming favourites. The Citizens' ability to control the game in the opposition's half and score from wing play situations will likely be key to their success in this match. Sunderland's defensive vulnerabilities, particularly against attacks down the wings, could be exploited by City's talented wingers. I expect the visitors to be too strong for the hosts.
Best Bet: Man City to win and over 2.5 goals (-105) Click here to get the best odds at FanDuel Sportsbook
Considering Man City's attacking form and their dominance in previous encounters against Sunderland, backing them to win with over 2.5 goals in the match seems a solid bet. Man City have scored at least 2 goals in 9 of their last 10 matches against Sunderland in all competitions, suggesting they are likely to find the net multiple times in this game.










