Manchester City travel to the Stadium of Light to take on Sunderland in their first game of 2026, seeking a win that will keep them two points behind Arsenal in the title race.
City have been flawless in their last six Premier League games, winning all of them. They have only lost twice in all competitions since the end of October but they are now five points behind the Gunners after their 4-1 win against Aston Villa.
Pep Guardiola’s side faced Sunderland just a few weeks ago and won comfortably 3-0.
But Regis Le Bris' side have proved a match for almost everyone this season and, while City brushed them aside with ease in the reverse fixture, they are unbeaten at the Stadium of Light this season and Guardiola knows his side are likely to face a tough test.
Le Bris is missing six players to Africa Cup of Nations and, in a huge blow, star centre-back and talisman Dan Ballard has been ruled out for around a month with an injury.
City could welcome Jeremy Doku back from injury, while Guardiola says Rodri might see some action for the first time since early November in what would be a major boost to their title bid.
How to watch Sunderland vs Manchester City
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on Sky Sports, with coverage starting on Sky Sports Main Event at 7.45pm.
Live stream: Sky Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Sky Go app and website.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog.
