Manchester City vs Napoli prediction 18.09.2025 | Champions League

After years of domination, Manchester City had a poor last season, at least by their usual standard. The Citizens finished third, which isn't bad, to be fair, but they weren't even close to the top spot, as Liverpool finished 13 points away. For a big part of the season, the Citizens were outside of the top four spots, and even securing the Champions League was in danger. 

During the offseason, they spent a lot of money, but the season did not start well. Guardiola's squad opened the season with two wins and two losses. Injuries have been a major setback: John Stones, Mateo Kovačić, Rayan Cherki, Rayan Aït-Nouri, Kalvin Phillips, and Omar Marmoush are all sidelined, and according to reliable reports, only Aït-Nouri is expected to recover in time for the Napoli clash.

Napoli are coming into this season after another huge season behind them as they won their fourth Scudetto, and the second in the last three years. This year, Napoli started the season great, winning all three games against Sassuolo, Cagliari, and Fiorentina, and looked really good. They added some interesting players and undoubtedly have a team capable of winning it all. Unfortunately, Conte's squad will have to start the season without Romelu Lukaku, who was crucial for them last season. Still, judging from the game against Fiorentina, Hojlund's addition could be a massive boost for them. 

After a 3:1 win over Fiorentina, coach Antonio Conte spoke to the media. He said they dominated and showed they are ready from the very start of the match. The coach also praised Rasmus Hojlund, saying he has great potential and is a great prospect.