Manchester City began the Enzo Maresca era with a winning start, coming from behind to beat AFC Bournemouth 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Trailing at half-time, City scored twice late on through defenders Marc Guéhi and Joško Gvardiol to claim all three points on the opening day of the 2026/27 Premier League season. The result provides early relief for Maresca, whose side had been beaten 3-0 by Arsenal in the Community Shield just a week earlier, and who faces the considerable challenge of rebuilding a squad following Pep Guardiola's departure after a decade in charge.
The transfer activity surrounding City tells the fuller story of a club in transition. Savinho has been sold to Tottenham for up to £85 million, and Rodri has departed to Barcelona, leaving two significant gaps to fill. On the same day as the Bournemouth win, City moved decisively to address the midfield void by agreeing a record-breaking deal for 18-year-old Lille sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi, the Moroccan international widely described as Maresca's designated heir to Rodri. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, rejected City's approach for midfielder Adam Wharton, while Palmeiras winger Allan Elias has been identified as a potential Savinho replacement.
Injuries add further complexity to Maresca's early weeks. Jeremy Doku is sidelined for up to three weeks with a calf problem, while Matheus Nunes and Omar Marmoush are also absent. Maresca has publicly backed Phil Foden to rediscover his best form after two difficult seasons. City travel to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace on August 28, a fixture that will test whether Sunday's win signals genuine momentum or simply a fortunate start.
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.
Enzo Maresca has insisted that Manchester City remain a work in progress despite securing a dramatic late victory over Bournemouth. The new manager praised the incredible impact of his substitutes while acknowledging the significant physical disparities in his squad, emphasising that much more time and preparation are required to reach their optimal level this season.
Isabel Haugseng Johansen has stunned supporters by showcasing a brand-new hairstyle, mirroring her boyfriend Erling Haaland after the Manchester City striker unexpectedly shaved off his signature long blond locks. The 22-year-old Norwegian revealed her fresh shoulder-length trim on social media just hours before Manchester City kicked off their Premier League campaign against Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium.
Bournemouth head coach Marco Rose expressed his disappointment following a late defensive breakdown that saw his side slip to a defeat against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Despite delivering a competitive display for large periods of the Premier League fixture, the Cherries conceded late on to hand Enzo Maresca's side all three points, leaving their manager demanding immediate improvements at the back.
Manchester City have taken a massive step toward securing their long-term future in midfield by reaching a full agreement to sign Lille sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old Moroccan international is set to arrive at the Etihad Stadium as the designated heir to Rodri in a deal that shatters transfer records.
Erling Haaland has long been defined by his towering presence and flowing blonde hair, but the Manchester City superstar has decided to start the new campaign with a radical transformation. The Norwegian international took to social media to reveal he has ditched his trademark ponytail in favour of a dramatic short hairstyle.
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.