Manchester City vs AEK prediction: expert analysis, possible lineups, October 20, 2026
On October 20, 2026, Manchester City will face AEK in the third round of the Champions League league phase. Even a draw would be a major shock.
Manchester City vs AEK: team news and expert analysis
The Etihad giants once again finished only second in the Premier League in 2025/26, although they won both domestic cups — Guardiola's final trophies in England. His successor, Maresca, began with a 0-3 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield, but then produced a run of victories. The Athens club reclaimed the league title after a brief wait. However, they have already suffered several slip-ups this season and have fallen behind the leaders.
The English side began their campaign with a confident 2-0 away win over Porto in September, thanks to a brace from Haaland. In the second round, they came up short against the reigning champions, PSG, and suffered a defeat.
The Greeks started their campaign in August, overcoming Levski in qualifying (0-0 and 4-0). In the autumn, they beat LASK at home thanks to a solitary goal from Marin. They then deservedly lost to Shakhtar in London.
Previous meetings: Manchester City vs AEK
AEK will be visiting Haaland and company for the first time.
The only question is how convincingly the hosts will win. Our pick is a Manchester City victory with a "-2.5 goals" handicap (odds — 1.67).
Manchester City vs AEK: key statistics and trends
- Manchester City suffered one of just two defeats this season in the previous Champions League round
- Manchester City score an average of 2.71 goals and concede 1 goal per match
- Both teams score in 57% of Manchester City's matches, while the average total is 3.71 goals per game
- AEK have won two of their four matches in the competition
- AEK Athens score an average of 2.67 goals and concede 0.5 goals per match
- Both teams score in 50% of AEK Athens' matches, while the average total is 3.17 goals per game
Manchester City vs AEK: possible starting lineups
Manchester City use a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Donnarumma — Gvardiol, Dias, Guehi, Matheus Nunes — Fernandes, Buaddi — Cherki, Foden, Semenyo — Haaland
AEK use a 1-4-4-2 formation (possible lineup): Brignoli — Pilios, Reltvas, Mukudi, Rota — Koita, Marin, Vitalis, Mahrer — Jovic, Varga
Place your bets on the upcoming match and keep track of your team's position in the Champions League standings
