Manchester City sit second in the Premier League with 12 points from four games, level with leaders Arsenal, after a gritty 1-0 derby win at Old Trafford that will be remembered as much for its controversy as its result. Phil Foden was sent off early after kicking out at Bruno Fernandes, leaving City to defend with ten men for the majority of the match. They held firm, and Erling Haaland's second-half strike proved decisive.
The win was immediately clouded by a VAR admission that made uncomfortable reading for the club. The Professional Game Referees body confirmed the goal should not have stood, ruling that an offside Enzo Fernandez interfered with play before Haaland converted. City manager Enzo Maresca defended the decision publicly, but the refereeing body's statement confirmed it was an error of judgement. The controversy drew sharp criticism from pundits and opposition figures alike, with former players calling for wider reform of VAR in the Premier League.
Foden's red card means he faces a suspension, which is a significant blow given his importance to Maresca's side. The manner of the victory, grinding out a result with ten men despite the officiating storm around them, does speak to the squad's resilience and depth. City host Norwich City in the Carabao Cup on September 17, a fixture that may offer Maresca a chance to rotate and assess his options with Foden unavailable.
Gabriel Agbonlahor has launched a scathing attack on Bruno Fernandes, labelling the Manchester United captain a "cheat" following his controversial involvement in the derby against Manchester City. The former Aston Villa striker believes United’s eventual defeat was nothing more than footballing 'karma' after the Portuguese international helped engineer a red card for Phil Foden.
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.