Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford has delivered three points and a storm of controversy in equal measure. Erling Haaland's winning goal stood despite VAR officials later acknowledging it should not have counted, with Enzo Fernandez adjudged to have been in an offside position before the ball reached the Norwegian. Pro Ref subsequently stood down the VAR team responsible, and chief Howard Webb admitted Bruno Fernandes should also have been booked before Phil Foden's early red card, a decision that forced City to play more than 70 minutes with ten men.
The win leaves City level on 12 points with Arsenal at the top of the Premier League after four matches, a strong return that underlines the team's resilience despite the officiating furore. Haaland's goal also made him the all-time leading scorer in the Premier League era of the Manchester derby, surpassing Wayne Rooney and Sergio Aguero. He has admitted the record was on his mind before the match.
Off the pitch, manager Enzo Maresca has kept the pressure on officials by demanding a public apology over a controversial Bruno Fernandes goal from 2023, signalling he has no intention of letting the VAR debate fade. Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has also visited the City Football Academy for talks with Maresca over Haaland's workload ahead of the Nations League. City's next fixture is a Carabao Cup home tie against Norwich City on September 17.
Erling Haaland once again proved to be the difference-maker as Manchester City secured a vital 1-0 victory over rivals Manchester United. Despite seeing his winning goal initially flagged for offside, the Norwegian's impeccable timing ensured the decision was overturned - albeit controversially - further cementing his reputation as the league's most disciplined predator.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has reignited the fire surrounding Manchester derby officiating by demanding an apology for a controversial goal scored by Man United captain Bruno Fernandes in 2023. His comments follow a public admission from Pro Ref chief Howard Webb that City were fortunate to see an Erling Haaland goal stand in their most recent victory at Old Trafford.
Gary Lineker has questioned Michael Carrick's reluctance to start Benjamin Sesko following Manchester United's frustrating derby defeat to Manchester City. Despite ending last season in fine form and finding the net in recent outings, the 23-year-old striker continues to warm the bench while Matheus Cunha struggles to impress in a false-nine role.
Pro Ref chief Howard Webb has admitted that Bruno Fernandes should have been booked just moments before Phil Foden was sent off in the Manchester derby. The chief refereeing officer explained the VAR process behind the controversial first-half incident.
Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has travelled to Manchester for a summit with the City manager Enzo Maresca to discuss the management of star striker Erling Haaland. The meeting, held at the City Football Academy, marks the first face-to-face encounter between the two tacticians as they look to navigate a congested fixture schedule for the prolific forward.
Erling Haaland has cemented his status as a Manchester City legend by becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in the Premier League era of the Manchester derby. The Norwegian striker admitted he was well aware of the milestone before his decisive strike at Old Trafford, helping Enzo Maresca’s side to a gritty victory.
Can I buy Manchester City tickets without a membership?
You must be a club member to purchase an official ticket through the club to see Manchester City play at the Etihad Stadium.
There are two types of Cityzens memberships – Matchday Membership, for adults (ages 18 and above) between £25 and £35, and Junior Membership, for youth supporters (ages 17 and below) at £20.
Memberships offer fans a range of benefits, from priority access to tickets to a discount in the club shop.
Adult
Full Price: £35
Base Membership: £25
Junior
Full Price: £20
How can I buy Manchester City season tickets?
To buy a Manchester City season ticket, you must first be a Cityzens Matchday or Junior Member, as season tickets are not sold to the general public. However, season tickets for the 2025/26 season are currently sold out, and only a limited number of Flexi Season Tickets were offered to eligible members based on their match attendance history and purchase activity.
Renewals for existing ticket holders have closed, and new tickets will not be widely available until at least the 2026/27 season, when the Etihad Stadium expansion is expected to release more seats.
To prepare for future availability, you should purchase a Cityzens Matchday Membership through the official Manchester City website and attend as many home games as possible. Priority for season tickets is based on loyalty and attendance, so building your history now increases your chances.
Flexi Season Tickets, which offer a more flexible commitment while still providing benefits, are another route, but also subject to eligibility.
How hard is it to get Manchester City football match tickets?
Due to high demand, getting your hands on Premier League tickets for Manchester City matches is not easy, though it is typically not as tough as it is for their rivals.
Unsurprisingly, that can lead many fans to head to secondary resale sites such as StubHub in their efforts to bag tickets, though even then, it is not a foregone conclusion.
The best way to get tickets for Manchester City matches is to ensure you have a membership and browse the individual match options available. Remember, games against lower Premier League opposition or non-rivals will likely be easier to find.
How do I buy cheap Manchester City tickets?
The best way to buy cheap Manchester City tickets is from the club's official website, looking for tickets in the more cost-friendly portions of the Etihad Stadium.
Second-hand resale sites such as StubHub and Ticombo may also offer cheap tickets at short notice, with prices likely at their lowest the closer you get to the game.
Can I book a tour of Etihad Stadium?
You can indeed book a tour around the Etihad Stadium. Several websites offer deals and discounts on tours around the Citizens' home.
RedLetterDays currently offer stadium tours from £28 for one adult through £72 for two adults and two children. The time lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes an interactive portion that allows guests to greet a virtual Pep Guardiola in the press room and access the club shop.