New Year, New Challenge: Sunderland Sparks City’s Golden Run in 2026 Derby
Sunderland stands out as an exception to Manchester City’s golden run ahead of a 2026 opener. City begin the year away to Sunderland in a high-stakes Premier League clash. BBC data show City have won 18 of their last 19 calendar-year openers, including 13 in a row, with the lone blemish coming in 2012 against Sunderland. Sunderland hasn’t lost their league opener in seven years, adding intrigue to the encounter. This match marks the third New Year’s Day meeting between the sides, as City chase Arsenal at the top of the table.