Huddersfield shouldn’t provide too stern a test at the Etihad
Manchester City lock horns with Huddersfield on Sunday as they look to continue their perfect start to their title defence.
A painless opening to the campaign, against Unai Emery’s rejuvenating Arsenal, provided an early morale boost and the Sky Blues should make it six points out of six against the Terriers.
Huddersfield, renowned for their miraculous survival from relegation in their maiden Premier League season, proved one of Manchester City’s bogey clubs.
The Terriers had City’s nerves frayed when they met at the John Smith’s Stadium in the infant stages of last term. Huddersfield nudged ahead on 45 minutes after a tenacious opening 45 minutes, and Manchester City were extricated by a late Raheem Sterling goal – a theme corresponding to a number of City’s victories.
More from Man City Square
- Rodri believes City can have even more success this season
- Grealish, Stones, and Kovacic will NOT play tomorrow
- My Manchester City UCL Group Stage predictions
- After Injury Guardiola is back in Etihad
- Phil Foden Scores Opener for England Against Scotland
Huddersfield were just as plucky when they clashed with the champions on the penultimate weekend of domestic action. Manchester City hoped for a win on the day they lifted the Premier League trophy at Etihad Stadium, but instead the party was momentarily diluted as the Terriers fought for a goalless draw. The point meant nothing to City, however for Huddersfield it was pivotal in their race for survival.
The then-newcomers were impressive on both occasions last term. But expect a much more straightforward affair at the weekend. Huddersfield boss David Wagner often alludes to their presence in the top flight as remarkable, and it seems the Terriers are happy to merely be in the Premier League rather than having any real ambition to push towards the top half.
Their low-key transfer window, compared to other clubs of a similar calibre including Fulham, Wolves and Bournemouth, suggests they aren’t desperate to establish themselves as a high-achieving Premier League club.
Huddersfield were brushed aside by Chelsea last weekend. Anticipate a similar pattern versus the Sky Blues.
Hopefully Huddersfield can supply a challenge to Manchester City as vital momentum and confidence needs to be built. But it doesn’t seem likely, especially with the underdogs likely to pinpoint other matches for points.
Next. City star retires from international football. dark
Will City make it two out of two?