Manchester City head into the international break in strong shape, sitting top of the Premier League with nine points from three games and building momentum ahead of what promises to be a defining early-season test. The focus now turns firmly to Sunday's Manchester derby at Old Trafford, where Enzo Maresca's side will look to extend their perfect domestic record against a Manchester United side dealing with injury concerns of their own.
Maresca has delivered mixed injury news in his pre-derby briefing, offering City fans both encouragement and caution as he finalises his selection. The City manager has also backed Elliot Anderson's 'Kings of Manchester' comments this week, though he was characteristically measured in downplaying the derby's hostility, insisting he has faced more volatile atmospheres during his career.
The backdrop to this fixture carries extra intrigue. City's 2-0 Champions League win at Porto last week provided a timely confidence boost, with teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi drawing praise from both Maresca and Erling Haaland on his first European start. Haaland himself continues to attract transfer speculation, though former City striker Andy Cole has been dismissive of the noise, questioning why the Norwegian would want to leave.
Off the pitch, City are among the six Premier League clubs actively opposing a proposed £550 million commercial rights pooling plan, adding a significant financial dimension to the club's broader agenda as the season gathers pace.
Ruben Dias has sent a defiant message to Manchester City’s rivals, insisting the club’s staggering £458 million summer overhaul has only increased their hunger for silverware. The newly-appointed captain believes the influx of fresh talent has revitalised a squad that recently bid farewell to several legendary figures.
Jamie Carragher has sparked controversy by claiming Michael Carrick is effectively an "interim" manager at Manchester United who would never have been considered for the role by any other elite club. Despite a successful caretaker spell that secured Champions League football, the Liverpool legend remains entirely unconvinced by the former midfielder's long-term credentials at Old Trafford.
Enzo Maresca is preparing for his first taste of the Manchester derby as City manager, but the Italian has downplayed the perceived hostility of the fixture. Despite the massive stakes at Old Trafford this Sunday, the former Chelsea boss insists he has faced far more volatile atmospheres during his career across Europe.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has confirmed that Luke Shaw faces a late fitness test ahead of Sunday's crucial Manchester derby. The experienced defender was a notable absentee during the Red Devils' midweek European exploits as the coaching staff look to manage his physical condition carefully.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed a major selection boost ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes Manchester derby at Old Trafford. The Premier League leaders are looking to maintain their perfect start to the domestic campaign while ending a disappointing recent run at the home of their local rivals, Man United.
Declan Rice has admitted that ex-Man City star Kevin De Bruyne remains a massive threat on the European stage despite Arsenal securing a hard-fought victory over Napoli. The Gunners kicked off their Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win in Italy, but the Belgian playmaker left a lasting impression on his former Premier League rivals.
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.