Manchester City are entering a new era with purpose, but a significant injury concern has already complicated their preparations. Rodri is set to undergo back surgery, casting serious doubt over his availability for the start of the 2026-27 campaign. The Spain captain was central to Pep Guardiola's success across multiple title-winning seasons, and his absence will test new manager Enzo Maresca from the first whistle.
Maresca has inherited a squad being actively reshaped around him. The club's most decisive statement this summer came with the £116m signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, with the 23-year-old England midfielder wasting no time in declaring City the "kings of Manchester." That arrival follows a wave of contract extensions binding Phil Foden, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Jeremy Doku to the Etihad until at least 2029, signalling a clear intent to build continuity at the core of the squad.
Not every piece of business points inward. John Stones has left as a free agent after his contract expired, with Chelsea among those reportedly interested. James Trafford is in talks with Leeds over a permanent exit after a frustrating season as backup. And Real Madrid have publicly denied reports of any approach for Rodri, though the story reflects the attention City's key players continue to attract.
City finished second in the Premier League on 78 points, seven behind champions Arsenal. With Maresca now in the dugout and a pre-season friendly against Inter on August 1 approaching, the new chapter is beginning under real pressure to close that gap.
With the new Premier League season now less than a month away from kicking off on August 21, pre-season friendlies are about to get into full swing as the majority of clubs jet off around the globe to ensure the best possible preparation for the 2026-27 campaign. However, due to the World Cup, a number of squads are far from full strength as those who reached the knockout rounds in North America enjoy some belated time off, creating opportunities for others to stake their claim for greater roles over the next 10 months.
Yan Diomande's future has become one of the summer's most closely watched transfer sagas, with Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid all reportedly prepared to match Liverpool's €100 million offer for the RB Leipzig winger, even as he waits to hear whether his preferred destination, Paris Saint-Germain, can turn interest into a concrete offer.
England midfielder Elliot Anderson has lit the fuse ahead of the new season by labelling Manchester City the "kings of Manchester" after completing his £116m switch from Nottingham Forest. The 23-year-old made sure to note City's dominance over local rivals Manchester United in the last decade while looking forward to his new challenge at Etihad Stadium.
For some football fans, the summer is the part of the calendar that they look forward to the most - and that's not just because it's filled by a World Cup every four years! Rather, it's because the end of the season means only one thing: It's time for transfers! The 2026 window is once again proving to be busy, with some huge names making big-money moves before deadline day on September 1.
Arsenal are reportedly weighing up a move for England's defensive duo John Stones and Ezri Konsa as they look to navigate a major defensive blow. The Gunners have been rocked by the news that William Saliba is set for a significant spell on the sidelines with a back injury sustained during France's World Cup campaign.
Leeds United have opened negotiations with Manchester City over a permanent move for highly-rated goalkeeper James Trafford. The England international is reportedly leaning towards a move to Elland Road after a difficult season acting as an understudy at the Etihad Stadium.
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.