Middlesbrough have had a mixed bag of results following their return to the Premier League. Despite a seven-year absence, the Teessiders have performed in a steady fashion, somewhat surpassing expectations.

Boro weren't expected to survive the Premier League, but their positive start to the campaign has created a sound basis for doing just that. Manager Aitor Karanka is a widely sought-after tactician, but claiming a win over Pep Guardiola's Citizens will be the biggest result of his short managerial career.

In recent weeks, the air of invincibility surrounding the Manchester side was quashed by the opposition as Guardiola suffered a six-game winless run - the longest of his seven-year managerial career.

The last fixture between the duo witnessed Boro claim a major FA Cup scalp in 2015 as they secured a 0-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium, and we at FootballFanCast aren’t so convinced City will get revenge in Saturday’s 3:00pm kick-off.

Pace on the counter-attack

As previously observed at the Emirates Stadium, Middlesbrough's counter-attacking options will provide City will some issues this weekend.

The pace and width provided by Adama Traore and Gaston Ramirez has inflicted the significant damage to both Arsenal and Bournemouth in recent weeks, and City are vulnerable.

Guardiola's biggest concern has been the issues at full-back and the speedy duo have the potential to cause City's defenders nightmares.

Physicality against John Stones

John Stones is proving his worth following his move from Everton. The England international came with a massive price-tag, and his one downfall is his propensity to be bullied by the more 'typical number nine' forwards around.

Thankfully for Teessiders, former City striker Alvaro Negredo has all the attributes to cause constant problems for Stones this weekend. Negredo's presence, strength and aggression attacks Stones weaknesses.

Karanka will allow Negredo to start and will identify Stones as the weak point in the City armoury. Undoubtedly, 'The Beast' will be keen to make an impression on his old stomping ground.

They drew away at Arsenal

One inspiring fact ahead of the visit to City will be Boro recently drew 0-0 at fellow title rivals Arsenal. The draw in north London should spur Karanka on to ensure he claims another major upset this Saturday.

Despite Arsenal having the majority of possession, Boro were unlucky not to come away from the Emirates Stadium with all three points. Like Arsenal, City are likely to dominate proceedings in midfield and maintain possession, but they successfully contained the Gunners when being defeated was heavily expected.

If they can achieve the impossible in London, then why not in Manchester?