As the 2024/25 Premier League season draws to a close, Manchester City is set to face Southampton in a crucial match at St. Mary's Stadium on May 10, 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 CET, and the stakes couldn't be higher for both teams.
For City, this match represents a critical opportunity to solidify their position in the top five, which is essential for Champions League qualification next season. Pep Guardiola's side has found their rhythm in recent weeks, boasting four consecutive league victories that have propelled them to third place in the Premier League standings. A win against the relegated Saints would not only secure their Champions League aspirations but also keep them within striking distance of second-placed Arsenal.
On the other hand, Southampton is in dire need of a point to avoid matching the infamous record for the lowest points total in Premier League history, set by Derby County in the 2007-08 season. Currently, the Saints sit at just 11 points, and their recent 2-0 defeat to fellow relegation side Leicester City has compounded their struggles. Interim manager Simon Rusk, who has taken over following the dismissals of Russell Martin and Ivan Juric, urged his players to finish the season with dignity despite the overwhelming challenges.
“It’s important we don’t move into fear territory in these games and instead we put our best foot forward,” Rusk said. “We want to finish the season on a high and build momentum.”
City's lineup for the match is expected to feature Ederson in goal, supported by a defensive line of Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, and O'Reilly. The midfield is set to include Gonzalez and Gundogan, with a front line of Savinho, De Bruyne, Doku, and Marmoush. Notably, Erling Haaland is back in the mix after recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him for six matches. Guardiola confirmed that Haaland was "fit and ready" but did not disclose whether he would start.
Meanwhile, Southampton's possible starting XI includes Ramsdale in goal, with Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, and Stephens in defense. The midfield is likely to consist of Walker-Peters, Downes, Ugochukwu, and Manning, while Fernandes and Sulemana support striker Onuachu, who makes his return to the starting lineup after an ankle injury.
Despite their relegation being confirmed, Southampton is determined to avoid the embarrassment of equaling Derby's record. They will face Everton in their last competitive fixture at Goodison Park, followed by a home match against Arsenal, making the quest for that vital point all the more pressing.
As for City, they are looking to build on their recent FA Cup success, having edged past Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 thanks to a first-half goal from Kevin De Bruyne. They are also preparing for an FA Cup final against Crystal Palace next weekend, which adds another layer of importance to today's match.
“It’s been the most difficult, that’s for sure,” Guardiola remarked about the season. “It’s been more demanding – much more. When you don’t win, it’s more demanding emotionally and preparing and the moods and everything.”
With the title already secured by Liverpool, the focus now shifts to the Champions League race. City currently sits at 64 points, just three behind Arsenal and two ahead of Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Nottingham Forest. The pressure is on for City to maintain their form and secure a top-five finish.
As the players take to the field at St. Mary's, the atmosphere is expected to be charged, with City fans hoping for a strong performance to keep their Champions League hopes alive. Southampton supporters will be looking for a glimmer of hope amidst a challenging season, with the players eager to prove their worth despite the relegation.
In terms of matchday logistics, the referee for the game will be Tim Robinson, with VAR overseen by Matt Donohue. Fans can catch the live action through various broadcasting platforms, including USA Network and Universo in the United States.
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on both teams as they prepare for this pivotal encounter. Will City continue their winning streak and secure their Champions League future? Or can Southampton muster a performance that will prevent them from matching the unwanted record? The answers will unfold as the action kicks off at St. Mary's Stadium.
