Manchester City entered their crucial Champions League fixture against Club Brugge, knowing that anything less than a win could spell disaster. Pep Guardiola’s men have struggled in the group stage, leaving them with no margin for error as they host a confident Brugge side that sits three points ahead in the standings.
The Citizens must overcome recent inconsistencies and rediscover their best form if they are to secure progression. With key defensive absences and their attacking stars needing to fire, City will face a stern test against a Brugge team that has been formidable this season.
Match Details:
- Date: Wednesday, January 29
- Kickoff: 20:00 GMT | 15:00 ET | 12:00 PT
- Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
- Referee: Jose Maria Sanchez (Spain)
- VAR: Alejandro Hernandez (Spain)
Head-to-Head Record
Manchester City holds the upper hand in past meetings, winning both previous encounters, including a 4-1 triumph in their last clash. However, Club Brugge’s current 20-match unbeaten streak signals that they are far from an easy opponent.
Form Guide (Last Five Matches in All Competitions)
Man City:
Man City 3-1 Chelsea
PSG 4-2 Man City- Ipswich 0-6 Man City
Brentford 2-2 Man City- Man City 8-0 Salford
Club Brugge:
- Club Brugge 1-1 Kortrijk
- Club Brugge 0-0 Juventus
- Club Brugge 4-2 Beerschot
- Club Brugge 2-1 Genk
- Anderlecht 0-3 Club Brugge
Where to Watch
- UK: TNT Sports 2, discovery+
- US: Paramount+, ViX
- Canada: DAZN
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Manchester City
Injuries continue to trouble Guardiola’s squad, with Rodri and Oscar Bobb ruled out. Ruben Dias’ groin injury is another blow, while Nathan Ake and Jeremy Doku are also sidelined. John Stones is expected to return in defense, while Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne will lead the attack.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
Ederson; Nunes, Stones, Akanji, Gvardiol; De Bruyne, Kovacic, Silva; Foden, Haaland, Savinho
Club Brugge
Brugge’s only concern is Hans Vanaken, who missed their last match due to illness. The Belgian side will look to Gustaf Nilsson for goals, while Simon Mignolet is set for a busy night in goal.
Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1):
Mignolet; Sabbe, Ordonez, Mechele, De Cuyper; Jashari; Skoras, Vetlesen, Vanaken, Tzolis; Nilsson
Match Prediction
Manchester City’s inconsistent form adds an element of unpredictability to this contest, but their superior firepower should be enough to edge past Club Brugge. While the Belgian side has been resilient, the attacking quality of Haaland, Foden, and De Bruyne should make the difference.
Prediction: Manchester City 3-1 Club Brugge
