Wolfsberger AC vs Rapid Vienna - Bundesliga

The Bundesliga returns to the home ground on September 12, 2026, where Wolfsberger AC and Rapid Vienna will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Just as was the case in the previous meeting between the teams in April of last year, when Emery's side gave them such a scare in the Champions League tie at Villa Park, PSG were hanging on at the end.

A glance at the Bundesliga table tells the story: Wolfsberger AC in 9th and Rapid Vienna in 2nd, with positions to defend and places to climb. Wolfsberger AC are in the midst of a difficult spell, L in their last five summing up a win rate of 16.67%. On the road, Rapid Vienna have been equally impressive — W in their last five and a win rate of 83.33% for the campaign. Where Wolfsberger AC have leaned on defensive discipline, Rapid Vienna have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. A young right-back is another position City are interested in adding in, while, in terms of outgoings, goalkeeper James Trafford is close to joining Leeds so will need to be replaced.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Wolfsberger AC favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Rapid Vienna are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. City also want to continue improving their attack, with a top left-winger still in the offing too.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer S. Adeniran, with 4 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. One of McInnes' decisions will likely be who starts up front in the absence of captain Lawrence Shankland and fellow striker Youssef Chermiti.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. Despite the home advantage enjoyed by Wolfsberger AC, the weight of evidence favours Rapid Vienna — a 1-3 away win is the call. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.