Following a rare trophyless 2024/25 campaign, Manchester City enter the new season determined to bounce back.
Pep Guardiola’s side, dominant in recent years with six Premier League titles in the past eight seasons, will aim to reassert their supremacy. Last season’s third-place finish marked their first without silverware since the 2016/17 campaign.
Man City fixtures 2025:
16 August: Wolves v Man City
23 August: Man City v Tottenham
31 August: Brighton v Man City
14 September: Man City v Man Utd
21 September: Arsenal v Man City
27 September: Man City v Burnley
City open their season away to Wolves, a side capable of frustrating top teams, especially at home – an early slip could spark questions. Next up is Tottenham at the Etihad, a frequent thorn in City’s side; a win builds momentum, but anything less might raise concerns.
A tricky trip to Brighton follows, where their fluid, high-possession style could test City’s depth and focus. Then comes the first Manchester Derby – always intense and potentially pivotal for early-season momentum.
After that, it’s a huge clash away to Arsenal, a meeting between last season’s top two. Arsenal will aim to make a statement, while City look to reassert control in the title race.
They finish the run with a home fixture against Burnley, one City are expected to dominate, though any dropped points would increase pressure.
It’s a tough opening stretch where early consistency could be the key to setting the pace in the title race.
City have been active in the transfer window. New arrivals include Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Sverre Nypan, Marcus Bettinelli and the return of academy graduate James Trafford. Meanwhile, the departure of Kevin de Bruyne leaves big boots to fill.
Guardiola, whose contract was due to expire at the end of last season, penned a new deal in November to keep him at the Etihad until 2027 in a big boost for the club.
The Spaniard has urged his charges to use last season’s frustration into fuel for another Premier League charge. “We are starting again – now it’s time to show that City still sets the standard,” he said.
Man City standings – Historic log positions
2020/21 – 1st
2021/22 – 1st
2022/23 – 1st
2023/24 – 1st
2024/25 – 3rd
