Man City vs Napoli: Match Preview, Latest Team News and TV Watching Guide | OneFootball

Manchester City vs Napoli: UEFA Champions League clash at the Etihad

Manchester City return to UEFA Champions League action tonight, facing Napoli at the Etihad Stadium in a fixture that feels as intriguing as it is unpredictable. For Pep Guardiola’s side, this competition has often been defined by near misses and frustrations, even after their triumph in 2023. Last season brought disappointment as City finished outside the top eight in the new league phase before being knocked out 6-3 on aggregate by Real Madrid in the play-off round. It was their earliest exit since 2017, a statistic that underlines the need for a strong response this year.

Napoli, Serie A champions and guided by Antonio Conte, arrive with renewed confidence and a familiar face that will capture plenty of attention. Kevin De Bruyne, a Manchester City legend, joined the Italian side after his release in the summer and now faces his former team in what promises to be a fascinating subplot to an already compelling contest.

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Key details on kick-off and broadcast

Manchester City vs Napoli kicks off at 8pm BST on Thursday 18 September 2025. The Etihad Stadium hosts the clash.

For supporters in the UK, live television coverage will be provided on TNT Sports 2 from 7pm, with streaming available via Discovery+ for subscribers.

Team news and expected line-ups

City approach this game with several concerns. Mateo Kovacic and Rayan Cherki are unavailable long-term, Omar Marmoush is sidelined with a knee issue, and Kalvin Phillips has been omitted from the Champions League squad. Rayan Ait-Nouri is doubtful, while Guardiola may also rotate his midfield given the looming Premier League trip to Arsenal. Rodri could be given a rest, opening the door for younger talents such as Savinho, Oscar Bobb, Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis to feature.

Napoli’s preparation appears more straightforward. Conte has no fresh injuries, although Romelu Lukaku remains out. De Bruyne is expected to start against his former club, partnered in midfield by Scott McTominay. Rasmus Hojlund, on loan from Manchester United, is set to lead the line after scoring on his debut against Fiorentina.

Tactical outlook and prediction

Conte is renowned for his defensive organisation, and Napoli are likely to sit compact while looking to spring forward quickly on the counter. For Guardiola, this fixture is about finding balance, maintaining rhythm in possession while avoiding over-commitment ahead of the Arsenal trip. Nothing will be decided in the opening round of fixtures, and both sides may view a draw as acceptable. A 1-1 scoreline feels a realistic prediction.

Head-to-head record

This is only the fifth competitive meeting between Manchester City and Napoli. Their most recent clashes came in the 2017-18 group stage.

With history finely balanced and De Bruyne’s return adding a rich narrative, tonight’s fixture should provide early clues about how both clubs intend to approach their Champions League campaigns.