Manchester City are building genuine momentum under Enzo Maresca, and their 2-0 Champions League victory over FC Porto at the Estadio do Dragao underlines just how serious their ambitions are this season. Erling Haaland scored twice to take his European tally to 36 goals for the club, as reported by GOAL, giving Maresca a perfect start across both competitions. City sit top of the Premier League with nine points from three games, level with Arsenal, and the early signs of this squad's depth are hard to ignore.
Much of that depth has arrived through a record-breaking summer. Enzo Fernandez made an immediate impression on his debut against Coventry, as GOAL covered, while deadline-day signing Iliman Ndiaye also caught the eye. Teenage midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, signed for £86 million, is drawing comparisons to Sergio Busquets, according to GOAL's profile. Maresca has already warned Arsenal that City have the squad to reclaim the title, per GOAL, though Haaland himself has acknowledged that Arsenal still hold an edge for now.
Managing that squad will be a challenge. Maresca has been open about rotation plans amid a demanding schedule, telling GOAL that he needs players at full fitness. The next test arrives Sunday, September 13, when City travel to Old Trafford for the Manchester derby, a fixture that will sharpen the picture of where this team truly stands.
Erling Haaland scored twice as Manchester City opened their Champions League campaign with a convincing victory against Porto. The Norwegian striker took his European tally to 36 goals for the club as Enzo Maresca's side dominated at the Estadio do Dragao.
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has delivered a scathing assessment of Michael Carrick’s current tactical setup, labelling the team "difficult to watch" without a recognised focal point. As the Red Devils prepare for a high-stakes Manchester derby against City, the former midfielder is demanding a major change to the starting XI.
Ayyoub Bouaddi can “reach world-class Rodri level easily”, former Manchester City defender Bacary Sagna has told GOAL, with the teenage wonderkid expected to become a global superstar on the back of his £86 million ($116m) transfer to the Etihad Stadium. At just 18 years of age, the Morocco international is already being likened to World Cup-winning Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets.
The road to Madrid begins this week as the league phase gets under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?
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.