Manchester City vs Tottenham Hotspur is one of the most anticipated fixtures of the early Premier League season. Both teams began their campaigns with convincing victories, and their clash at the Etihad promises goals, intensity and tactical intrigue.

City head into the weekend fresh from a 4-0 dismantling of Wolves, with Erling Haaland scoring twice to remind everyone why he is the league’s deadliest striker. New arrivals Tijani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki also got off the mark, while Rayan Aït-Nouri impressed against his former club.

According to Sky Sports and BBC Sport, Guardiola will again assess Rodri’s fitness as the midfield anchor recovers from injury, while James Trafford is expected to continue in goal with Ederson strongly linked to a move abroad.

Tottenham, meanwhile, were equally dominant in their 3-0 victory over Burnley. Richarlison’s spectacular overhead kick stole headlines, but it was Mohamed Kudus who drew plaudits for his two assists on debut. Brennan Johnson also added to his fine scoring form, putting Thomas Frank’s side in good spirits ahead of the trip to Manchester.

With both teams in form and plenty of attacking quality on show, could Spurs once again frustrate City at the Etihad, a ground where they’ve enjoyed surprising success in recent years?

Pep Guardiola has selection dilemmas, particularly in midfield. Rodri is close to full fitness but may not be risked. Ederson’s absence continues amid transfer speculation, leaving Trafford between the posts. Cherki and Omar Marmoush are pushing for starts, while Manuel Akanji’s future remains unresolved.

Tottenham fans are already excited by Kudus’ creativity. João Palhinha could be handed his first start, adding steel to midfield. However, Destiny Udogie and Yves Bissouma are doubtful, while Dejan Kulusevski is sidelined long term. With James Maddison also recovering, Spurs are considering reinforcements such as Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze.

This fixture has often defied logic. Spurs have repeatedly found ways to unsettle City at the Etihad, with pace in transition and clinical finishing proving decisive in recent years.

From watching Tottenham’s opener, Mohamed Kudus looks like the player who could tip this game. His ability to break lines and link with Richarlison gives Spurs a dangerous counter threat. But City at home, with Haaland already firing, remain daunting opponents.

City will look to maintain momentum before their Champions League campaign kicks off in September, with rotation likely against promoted sides in coming weeks. Guardiola will also be keen to resolve Ederson’s future swiftly to avoid distractions.

For Spurs, consistency is the priority. Frank’s men travel to Everton next and then face a tricky run including Arsenal and Newcastle. Keeping Kudus, Richarlison and Johnson firing will be essential if they want to build belief as top-four contenders.

Manchester City 3-1 Tottenham Hotspur — City’s firepower may prove too much, despite Spurs’ strong recent record in this fixture.

Should Spurs stick with Richarlison as the focal point — or start Kudus in a more advanced role to disrupt City’s rhythm?