Pressure is building on Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini, with City's stuttering start to the season continuing with a draw away at Queens Park Rangers in their last match before the international break. They're now down in third place, eight points behind league leaders Chelsea, and their hopes of winning the title are already fading.
Manchester City vs. Swansea City live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Manchester City have a tough game at home to high-flying Swansea on Saturday.
Scott Heavey/Getty Images
That makes their game at home to Swansea City on Saturday all the more important, though the Citizens certainly shouldn’t be expecting a walk in the park. Garry Monk’s side have been one of the division’s big overachievers so far this season, and would move level on points with City with a win away at the Etihad on Saturday. Such a victory could have costly consequences for Pellegrini.
Key player -- Sergio Agüero (Manchester City)
Sergio Agüero is the only striker in the Premier League this season who has been worthy of holding a candle to Chelsea's Diego Costa, having scored two more goals than the Spanish international (even if Agüero has netted twice from the penalty spot). His mobility and close command of the ball make him a nightmare for defenders to mark, and Swansea could really struggle in the absence of Federico Fernández.
Key matchup - Wilfried Bony vs. Manchester City's defense
Swansea have their own dangerman in attack, with Wilfried Bony having recently found his scoring boots after a bit of a drought. The Ivorian international was outstanding last season, and stayed at the Liberty despite interest from some of England’s biggest clubs in the summer. With City having looked shaky at the back so far this season, he could well add to his tally here.
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
Out: David Silva (knee), Aleksandar Kolarov, Edin Džeko (calf). In doubt: None.
Swansea City injuries and suspensions
Out: Jazz Richards (knee), Rory Donnelly (ankle), Federico Fernández (calf). In doubt: Wayne Routledge, Nathan Dyer (groin).
City will be without their injured trio of David Silva, Aleksandar Kolarov and Edin Džeko, but otherwise they are fully fit. Swansea’s injury list is longer, but their only certain first-team absentee is former Napoli center-back Federico Fernández. Wingers Wayne Routledge and Nathan Dyer could be involved after recovering from groin strains.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 3 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England
TV: Directv, Mun2 (U.S.), TSN4, RDS (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S. - English), Deportes Telemundo En Vivo Extra (U.S. - Spanish)
See More:
