Newcastle United vs Manchester City (Premier League): Match Preview, Team News, Head to Head, How to Watch
Manchester City travel to St. James’ Park on Saturday evening to face Newcastle United following the recent international break. This is City’s first fixture since their 3-0 win over Liverpool, where Jeremy Doku starred alongside Erling Haaland and Nico Gonzalez, helping the Blues close in on league leaders Arsenal.
Match Details
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Kick-off: 17:30 GMT
Venue: St. James’ Park
Match Officials
The Premier League has confirmed Samuel Barrott as the match referee. Tim Wood and Nick Greenhalgh will serve as assistant referees. Leigh Doughty will be the fourth official, while Craig Pawson and Nick Hopton will operate as VAR and Assistant VAR respectively.
Team News
Manchester City have no fresh injury concerns. Rodri and Mateo Kovacic remain sidelined, with Rodri making “good steps” towards a return and Kovacic expected back in February.
Newcastle’s Lewis Hall may start his second league game of the season, while Dan Burn is suspended following a red card in the 3-1 defeat to Brentford. Valentino Livramento could return from a knee injury, and Anthony Gordon remains a doubt due to a hip issue. Midfielders Sandro Tonali and Joelinton are expected to feature after minor injuries during international duty.
Head to Head
City won the last meeting 4-0, highlighted by Omar Marmoush’s first hat-trick for Newcastle. The last fixture at St. James’ Park ended 1-1 with Josko Gvardiol scoring for the Blues. Guardiola’s side are unbeaten in the last 12 league matches against Newcastle, with their last league loss coming in January 2019 (2-1).
Statistics
- Erling Haaland is one goal away from 100 Premier League goals, potentially breaking Alan Shearer’s record as the fastest to a century.
- City have 12 away Premier League wins against Newcastle – their joint-most versus any opponent.
- The Blues have scored in their last 33 league matches against Newcastle.
- Eddie Howe has yet to win against City in 18 league meetings (D2 L16).
How to Watch
UK: Live on Sky Sports Main Event from 17:00 GMT, kick-off at 17:30 GMT. Radio commentary on BBC Radio Newcastle.
USA: Available on Peacock. Global TV listings available online.
FAQ
Q: Will Rodri play against Newcastle?
A: No, he remains sidelined as Guardiola manages his recovery.
Q: When will Mateo Kovacic return?
A: Kovacic is expected back in February 2026 after heel surgery.
Q: Who are Newcastle’s key absentees?
A: Dan Burn is suspended, Anthony Gordon is doubtful, and Valentino Livramento may return from injury.
Conclusion
Manchester City aim to continue their strong form and close the gap on Arsenal, while Newcastle seek to bounce back in the Premier League. With Haaland chasing a century of goals and City unbeaten in recent encounters, Saturday’s clash promises to be a high-stakes, compelling encounter at St. James’ Park.
