Pep Guardiola's Premier League debut wasn't all plain sailing, though the former Bayern boss still led Manchester City to a victory over Sunderland. Having built on that with a 5-0 thrashing of Steaua Bucharest in midweek, they'll be looking to add a further three points to their tally when they travel to face Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium in Saturday's early kickoff. However, as Stoke have demonstrated consistently over the last few seasons, that's not an easy task.
Stoke City vs. Manchester City 2016 live stream: Game time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Manchester City face a tough trip to Stoke in Saturday’s early kickoff.
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The Potters are one of the Premier League's most stubborn midtable outfits, and in Xherdan Shaqiri and Bojan Krkić, they have two of the division's most capable attackers. They've got the ability to cause anyone problems, and will be looking to show more of the promise they showed in a frustrating draw against newly-promoted Middlesbrough in their season-opening fixture at the Riverside Stadium.
Key matchup: Kevin de Bruyne vs. Giannelli Imbula
Having arrived in Manchester last season, Belgian international Kevin de Bruyne quickly established himself as City’s most important player. His creativity and skill in the final third is matched by a stunning eye for a pass, and he’s capable of unlocking the best defences with a singular moment of brilliance. It’ll be up to Stoke’s record signing, former Marseille midfielder Giannelli Imbula, to stop him.
Recent history
In recent seasons, Stoke have been something of a bogey team for Manchester City, who have won only three of their last six meetings with the Potters. In the same period, Stoke have won twice, with the other match ending all square and goalless.
Stoke City injuries and suspensions
Out: Stephen Ireland (broken leg); Ibrahim Afellay (knee). In doubt: Glen Johnson (thigh); Jack Butland (ankle); Xherdan Shaqiri (calf).
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
Out: Vincent Kompany (thigh); Ilkay Gündoğan (knee); Leroy Sané (hamstring). In doubt: Bacary Sagna (knock).
Stoke are still without long-term layoffs Ireland and Afellay; Johnson, Butland and Shaqiri all face late fitness tests. For Manchester City, captain Kompany and summer signings Gündoğan and Sané are all out; Sagna could be involved if he recovers from a knock.
Match date/time: Saturday, 7:30 a.m. ET, 12:30 p.m. local
Venue: Britannia Stadium, Stoke, England
TV: NBCSN (US); TSN5 (Canada); Sky Sports 1/HD (UK)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (US); TSN live streaming (Canada); Sky Go (UK)
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