Manchester City head into the weekend's Manchester derby carrying genuine momentum, sitting second in the Premier League after winning four of their last five across all competitions. The most recent of those was a 2-0 victory over FC Porto at the Estadio do Dragao in the Champions League, a result that reinforced Enzo Maresca's side as one of the division's most consistent forces this season.
The backdrop to Sunday's trip to Old Trafford is one of quiet confidence at the club. New captain Ruben Dias has sent a clear message to rivals, insisting that a £458 million summer rebuild has sharpened rather than disrupted the squad's ambition. His words carry weight given the scale of change City absorbed during the transfer window, and they signal a group determined to prove continuity of purpose under Maresca.
The manager himself has contributed to the pre-derby narrative, backing midfielder Elliot Anderson's claim that City are the kings of Manchester while also delivering a blunt message to United counterpart Michael Carrick about the demands of competing on multiple fronts. Maresca has confirmed injury absentees in Jeremy Doku and Nico O'Reilly, though the squad remains largely intact.
City arrive at Old Trafford as league leaders, facing a United side sitting 11th and dealing with their own fitness concerns. The fixture represents a chance to extend their advantage at the top and underline their title credentials early in the campaign.
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has underlined the psychological significance of securing a victory over Manchester City as the two rivals prepare to clash at Old Trafford. The England international believes that overcoming Enzo Maresca’s side serves as a massive catalyst for momentum in the Red Devils' season.
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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.