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
