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MANCHESTER City (England) are set to play twice in the space of 49 hours later this month.
City meet Watford in the Carabao Cup third round on Tuesday, September 25. Pep Guardiola’s side face Premier Soccer League title rivals Arsenal on Sunday, September 22, before travelling to Newcastle on Saturday, September 28.
But neighbours, Manchester United are playing their Europa League group stage opener against FC Twente on Wednesday night, when City’s game against Watford would have been most suitable.
Therefore, City will be forced to play twice in three days because Greater Manchester Police are reluctant to let them play at home on the same night.
Not since October 2015, when City thumped Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup and United lost on penalties to Middlesbrough , has that happened. It has been confirmed that the clash with the Hornets will take place on the Tuesday.
By the time the match at the Etihad Stadium kicks off, it will be just over 48 hours after City’s crucial meeting with the Gunners finishes, meaning Guardiola will have to utilise his talented squad.
The fixture comes during a hectic period where the reigning Premier League champions play five times in 15 days following the return of the Champions League. City host Inter Milan on September 18, four days before playing Brentford at home after the international break.
Man City has started the season perfectly as they aim to win their fifth Premier League title in a row. The Citizens won the curtain-raising Community Shield over rivals Man United.
Guardiola’s side have since won all three of their league matches, starting with the victory over Chelsea. City then followed up on the win at Stamford Bridge with successes against Ipswich Town and West Ham.
Erling Haaland has been sensational so far this season in front of goal. The Norwegian striker has already scored seven goals in his three league matches. This includes back-to-back hat-tricks against the Tractor Boys and the Hammers. (www.thesun.co.uk)
Online Reporter