Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford has kept them level on points with league leaders Arsenal after four matches, but the win has been overshadowed by one of the most scrutinised refereeing decisions of the season so far. Erling Haaland's winning goal stood despite VAR missing an offside infringement from Enzo Fernandez in the build-up, a mistake Pro Ref has since publicly acknowledged. The officials responsible were stood down for the next round of Premier League fixtures, and Pro Ref chief Howard Webb also admitted that Bruno Fernandes escaped a booking in the moments before Phil Foden's red card, adding further complexity to an already contentious afternoon.
City manager Enzo Maresca has not shied away from the controversy. Rather than distancing himself from the officiating debate, he has demanded an apology from Pro Ref over a Bruno Fernandes goal he believes was wrongly awarded against his side in 2023, arguing that scrutiny must apply equally in both directions.
Beyond the controversy, Haaland's goal made him the all-time leading scorer in the Premier League era of the Manchester derby, surpassing Wayne Rooney and Sergio Aguero. Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has already travelled to the City Football Academy for a face-to-face meeting with Maresca to discuss the striker's workload ahead of the Nations League. City next host Norwich City in the Carabao Cup, with Maresca balancing cup rotation against the need to manage his squad carefully.
Here you can find out where you can watch Manchester City live and in colour in the Premier League, Champions League and the domestic cup competitions.
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.
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.