Coventry arrive at the Etihad this afternoon searching for their first Premier League point of the season. History suggests they could hardly have picked a tougher place to find it.
City are unbeaten in their last 30 Premier League matches against newly-promoted opposition, winning 27 and drawing the other three.
Their last defeat against a side fresh from the Championship came more than five years ago, when Leeds United won 2-1 at the Etihad in April 2021. Since then, promoted clubs have repeatedly tried and failed to beat City.
Thirty games and counting
Coventry’s own return to the Premier League has started slowly.
Frank Lampard’s side were beaten 3-0 at Arsenal on the opening weekend before losing 1-0 at home to fellow promoted side Hull City. They therefore arrive in Manchester still waiting for both their first point and first league goal.
City have made precisely the opposite start under Enzo Maresca. Wins over Bournemouth and Crystal Palace have brought six points from six, with six goals scored, and victory this afternoon would complete a perfect opening three games.
There is one curious piece of history in Coventry’s favour. City have failed to win any of the last eight top-flight meetings between the clubs, although the most recent of those was back in January 2001. The more relevant numbers are considerably less encouraging for Lampard.
Thirty games against promoted sides. Twenty-seven City wins. Three draws. No defeats.
Coventry have the opportunity to end that sequence this afternoon. Few expect them to do it.
For updates on City throughout the season, take a look at our LIVE! Premier League 2026/27 News, Transfers, Updates & Viral Moments page.
