>
>
How times have changed for these two sides. Twenty-seven years have passed since Manchester City last played Swansea City, in the old Second Division.
That was played at Swansea’s old Vetch Field stadium, and it was the visitors who ran out 2-0 visitors on the day.
But while City can now claim to be the richest club in world football, splashing out millions on the likes of Robinho, Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez, the Swans have seen their own meteoric rise in recent times.
Having been promoted to the Championship in 2008, Swansea enjoyed an incredible first season back at that level.
With Jason Scotland leading their attack with 29 goals, and Roberto Martinez instilling an attractive footballing philosophy at the club, the side were unfortunate to miss out on the play-offs.
Martinez and Scotland soon left to join Wigan in the Premier League, but two years later the club gained promotion under the stewardship on Brendan Rodgers.
Manchester City have dominated this fixture down the years, having won 12 and lost two of the 20 meetings between the sides.
A repeat of the 2-0 score line, when the sides last met, may well be a tempting bet for many punters.
Most bookmakers are offering odds of 5/1 for that to be the final score, with Manchester City odds on favourites to win the game at 1/3.
Swansea will have to be at their best to win the game. Bookies are not confident they will pick up the three points – they are available at 9/1 with most.
Manchester City’s new signing, Sergio Aguero is expected to start the game on the bench, with the forward still short of match fitness. However, he is favourite to open the scoring at odds of 7/2.
Swansea signed Danny Graham from Watford for less than a tenth of what City paid for Aguero. They are hoping for big things from him, and he is available at 9/1 to be first goal scorer.
Want-away striker Carlos Tevez will not be involved, with Edin Dzeko expected to start up front for City.
Swansea skipper, Garry Monk is doubtful with a foot problem, while Dutch number two goalkeeper Michel Vorm is due to make his debut.
Danny Graham, Leroy Lita, Wayne Routledge and Steven Caulker are also in line to make their debuts.
The game at the Etihad Stadium kicks off at 8pm on Monday night, and (the postponed Tottenham v Everton game aside) will conclude the opening round of Premier League fixtures.
