The Etihad Stadium hosts Manchester City and Bournemouth in an intriguing tactical battle as both clubs begin their 2026-27 Premier League campaigns.

Both clubs enter the new season with new managers in the dugouts. Enzo Maresca will be managing his first full league campaign at City after taking over the helm, while Marco Rose orchestrates a high-intensity, vertical pressing game for the Cherries.

Following summer squad changes and several high-profile departures, both managers could turn to young players to provide energy and tactical flexibility.

Striver.Football profiles six standout U23 prospects who could make an important impact on Sunday's clash.

Manchester City's Young Players to Watch

Nico O'Reilly

Age/Position: 21 | Left-Back/Midfielder

The 21-year-old academy product has quickly established himself as a trusted member of the first-team squad following several impressive performances.

In 2025, O'Reilly delivered a match-winning performance against Bournemouth in the FA Cup, providing two assists. He continued building on that momentum, as in 2026, he was crowned the Premier League's young player of the season.

His technical versatility, ability to operate in inverted positions and attacking vision make him a valuable option in City's build-up play.

Rico Lewis

Age/Position: 21 | Right-Back/Inverted Midfielder

A household name who remains remarkably young at just 21, Lewis's tactical intelligence could make him an important player in Maresca's system.

Capable of seamlessly stepping from right-back directly into central inverted midfield roles, Lewis helps City create numerical advantages, resist pressure and control possession in central areas.

Lewis will have a chance to cement his status as the club's undisputed first choice right back amid competition from Mateus Nunes.

Vitor Reis

Age/Position: 20 | Centre-Back

Returning to the City fold after picking up invaluable top-flight experience on loan at Girona—where he won La Liga’s U23 Player of the Month award—the 20-year-old Brazilian defender brings physical authority, aerial dominance, and elite composure on the ball.

With rotations needed at the back, Reis's defensive recovery speed and ball-playing capability make him a vital asset to neutralize Bournemouth's direct, counter-attacking transitions.

Bournemouth's Young Players to Watch

Alex Scott

Age/Position: 23 | Central Midfielder

Dubbed the "Guernsey Grealish," the 23-year-old midfielder serves as the tactical engine room of Marco Rose's high-pressing setup. 

Scott possesses the ball-carrying strength, line-breaking distribution, and relentless defensive work rate necessary to disrupt Manchester City's smooth buildup play from deep central areas and trigger immediate counter-attacking transitions.

Rayan

Age/Position: 20 | Right-Winger

The 20-year-old Brazilian forward brings flair, blistering acceleration, and unpredictable 1v1 execution to the Cherries' front line. 

Capable of operating anywhere across the front three, Rayan's physical profile and direct running could test City's full-backs when Bournemouth transition quickly when Bournemouth transition quickly from turnover situations.

After his World Cup campaign with Brazil, Rayan will be looking to build on that momentum and establish himself further in the Premier League.

Veljko Milosavljevic

Age/Position: 19 | Centre-Back

The Serbian centre-back is one of Bournemouth's most promising young defenders and could have a bigger role to play during the 2026-27 campaign.

Milosavljevic made seven Premier League appearances for the Cherries last season, including four starts, after joining the club from Red Star Belgrade. He also became Bournemouth's youngest-ever player to start a Premier League match during his breakthrough campaign.

Standing at 1.92m, the 19-year-old brings an imposing physical presence, while his experience in Serbian football and early exposure to the Premier League have accelerated his development.

What Young Players Can Learn From Manchester City vs Bournemouth

Versatility Guarantees Minutes: Modern top-tier managers prioritize players who can execute multiple roles within a single match; Rico Lewis and Nico O'Reilly demonstrate how tactical adaptability opens immediate starting pathways.

Capitalise on Past Precedents: Staging match-winning performances in previous meetings can build confidence; players like O'Reilly can use past success against an opponent to strengthen their case for a bigger role.

Impact Exists Beyond the Starting XI: Young players do not always need to start to influence a major match. Remaining prepared and focused can create opportunities to make a decisive contribution from the bench.