Manchester City currently holds the upper hand in recent encounters against Nottingham Forest, winning 1-2 in their most recent Premier League meeting on December 27, 2025, at the City Ground. Historically, these two iconic English clubs have a deeply competitive record dating back to the late 19th century, with Nottingham Forest famously challenging City’s dominance during the late 70s and early 80s. In the modern era, Manchester City has dominated the goal-scoring charts, though Forest remains a difficult side to beat at home, often securing crucial draws or narrow results.
In this comprehensive guide, you will find a complete breakdown of the Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City rivalry. We cover everything from all-time head-to-head statistics and legendary past matches to practical information for fans attending the next game at the Etihad Stadium on March 4, 2026. Whether you are looking for tactical analysis, historical context, or ticket pricing, this authoritative resource provides every detail needed to understand one of the Premier League’s most intriguing matchups.
All-Time Head-to-Head Records
Manchester City and Nottingham Forest have faced each other over 100 times in competitive football across the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. As of early 2026, the historical balance is surprisingly close, with Manchester City holding a slight edge in total wins, though Forest’s record during the Brian Clough era remains a significant part of the statistical narrative.
The goal difference in this fixture has shifted significantly toward Manchester City in the last decade, primarily due to high-scoring victories since Forest’s return to the top flight in 2022. However, the “City Ground factor” continues to play a role, as Manchester City has found it considerably harder to secure three points in Nottingham compared to their home fixtures in Manchester.
Recent Match Results (2025/26)
In the current 2025/26 Premier League campaign, Manchester City secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Nottingham Forest on December 27, 2025. City’s goals were provided by Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, while Omari Hutchinson found the net for the hosts in front of a capacity crowd of over 30,000.
Earlier in 2025, the two sides met in a high-stakes FA Cup Semi-Final at Wembley Stadium on April 27, where Manchester City cruised to a 2-0 win. This result highlighted City’s efficiency in knockout competitions, preventing Forest from reaching their first major domestic final in decades despite a spirited defensive performance.
Historic Rivalry Origins
The rivalry between these two clubs is rooted in the late 1970s when Nottingham Forest, under Brian Clough, became the kings of Europe while Manchester City struggled for consistency. During this period, matches between the two were often title-deciding affairs, characterized by tactical physical play and immense local pride.
In the 1977-78 season, Forest’s rise to the First Division title involved crucial points taken from City, establishing a competitive tension that lasted for years. While both clubs spent time outside the top flight in the late 90s and early 2000s, their meetings in the Championship (formerly First Division) remained some of the highest-attended games in the second tier.
Manchester City’s Tactical Evolution
Under Pep Guardiola, Manchester City has approached Nottingham Forest with a heavy emphasis on ball retention and wide overloads to break down Forest’s low block. They typically utilize a 3-2-4-1 or 4-3-3 formation, using inverted full-backs to control the midfield transitions and isolate Forest’s wingers.
In recent seasons, City has focused on exploiting the space behind Forest’s aggressive wing-backs, often using Erling Haaland as a focal point to occupy the central defenders. This tactical setup has led to some lopsided scores, including a 6-0 victory for City at the Etihad in 2022, which remains their largest win over Forest in the modern era.
Nottingham Forest’s Resilient Defense
Nottingham Forest, currently led by Sean Dyche, has developed a reputation for a “bend but don’t break” defensive philosophy when facing elite opposition like Manchester City. They often deploy a compact 4-5-1 or 5-4-1 formation, prioritizing narrow defensive lines to force City into low-percentage crosses from deep areas.
The effectiveness of this strategy was seen in their 0-0 draw against league leaders earlier in the 2025/26 season, where Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic provided a masterclass in central defensive positioning. By sacrificing possession, Forest aims to hit City on the counter-attack using the pace of Anthony Elanga and the physical presence of Taiwo Awoniyi.
Legendary Players in Focus
Several players have left an indelible mark on this fixture, ranging from the goal-scoring exploits of Erling Haaland to the historical heroics of Forest legend Garry Birtles. Haaland famously scored a first-half hat-trick against Forest in 2022, showcasing the clinical finishing that has defined the modern Manchester City era.
For Nottingham Forest, Morgan Gibbs-White has become the talisman in modern encounters, often serving as the primary creative outlet during transitions. His ability to hold the ball under pressure from City’s high press has been vital for Forest’s ability to remain competitive in these high-intensity matches.
The Etihad Stadium Experience
The Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City, offers one of the most technologically advanced matchday experiences in the world with a capacity of over 53,000. For the upcoming Forest fixture, fans can expect a high-energy atmosphere, especially in the South Stand where the most vocal home supporters are located.
The stadium features the “Tunnel Club,” a glass-walled hospitality suite that allows fans to see the players as they prepare to walk out onto the pitch. Visiting Nottingham Forest fans are typically allocated around 3,000 seats in the visiting section, often creating a loud “wall of sound” that rivals the home support.
The City Ground Atmosphere
Nottingham Forest’s City Ground is renowned for being one of the most atmospheric stadiums in the Premier League, situated right on the banks of the River Trent. The pre-match rendition of “Mull of Kintyre” is a staple of the experience, often cited by opposition players as one of the most intimidating starts to a game.
Despite its smaller capacity compared to the Etihad, the proximity of the stands to the pitch creates an intense environment that often levels the playing field against superior technical sides. For Manchester City, the City Ground has historically been a “banana skin” fixture where the crowd noise plays a genuine role in disrupting their rhythm.
Financial Comparison of Squads
There is a significant financial gulf between the two squads, with Manchester City’s roster valued at over £1 billion compared to Nottingham Forest’s valuation of approximately £400 million. This disparity is reflected in the wage bills, where City’s top earners often earn more than Forest’s entire starting defensive unit combined.
However, Nottingham Forest has spent significantly since their 2022 promotion to bridge this gap, breaking their transfer record multiple times for players like Morgan Gibbs-White and Ibrahim Sangaré. While City invests in established global superstars, Forest has focused on a high volume of high-potential talent to ensure Premier League survival.
FA Cup and League Cup History
Beyond the Premier League, the two clubs have a storied history in domestic cup competitions, including several memorable Third Round and Quarter-Final ties. One of the most famous upsets occurred in 2009, when Nottingham Forest, then in the Championship, defeated Manchester City 3-0 at the City Etihad Stadium in the FA Cup.
That 2009 victory remains a point of pride for Forest fans, as it came shortly after City’s takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group. In more recent times, City’s 2-0 win in the 2025 FA Cup Semi-Final served as a reminder of their current dominance in knockout formats, ending Forest’s dream of a trophy.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours and Dates
The next scheduled meeting between Nottingham Forest and Manchester City is on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Kick-off is set for 19:30 GMT at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester. Fans are advised to arrive at least 90 minutes before kick-off to clear security and enjoy the pre-match entertainment in “City Square.”
Prices and Ticket Costs
Ticket prices for this fixture vary based on seating category and membership status. Official prices generally fall into three tiers:
- Category A (Premium): £40 – £60 for adults.
- Category B (Standard): £35 – £55 for adults.
- Category C (Economy): £30 – £50 for adults.
- Junior/Under 18: £15 – £30 across all categories.
How to Get There
- To Etihad Stadium: The easiest way is the Metrolink (Tram) from Manchester Piccadilly station to the Etihad Campus stop. It takes approximately 10 minutes.
- To City Ground: From Nottingham Station, the stadium is a 15-20 minute walk across Lady Bay Bridge or London Road. Numerous matchday buses also run from the city center.
What to Expect
Expect heavy security presence and “fan zones” at both stadiums. At the Etihad, the “City Square” offers live music and interviews before the match. At the City Ground, fans usually gather in the local pubs around the Trent Bridge area before walking to the stadium together.
Tips for Visitors
- Booking: Tickets for these games sell out weeks in advance; always use official club websites to avoid scams.
- Weather: Both Manchester and Nottingham are prone to rain; the Etihad is fully covered, but the lower rows at the City Ground can be exposed.
- Away Fans: If you are a Forest fan traveling to Manchester, stick to the designated “Away” pubs near Ancoats to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the next Nottingham Forest vs Man City match?
The next match is scheduled for March 4, 2026, at the Etihad Stadium. The game is a Premier League fixture with a 19:30 GMT kick-off time.
What was the score in the last match between Forest and City?
The last match ended in a 2-1 victory for Manchester City at the City Ground on December 27, 2025. Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki scored for City.
How many times has Nottingham Forest beaten Manchester City?
Historically, Nottingham Forest has won 27 times against Manchester City across all competitions. This includes several notable victories during the late 1970s and 1980s.
Where can I buy tickets for the Man City vs Forest game?
Tickets should be purchased through the official websites of Manchester City (mancity.com) or Nottingham Forest (nottinghamforest.co.uk). Secondary markets like Ticketgum are available but may charge above face value.
Who has scored the most goals in this fixture?
In the modern era, Erling Haaland is the leading scorer with multiple goals, including a hat-trick in 2022. Historically, legendary strikers from the 1950s and 60s held higher tallies, but Haaland is quickly approaching those records.
What is the seating capacity of the Etihad Stadium?
The Etihad Stadium currently holds approximately 55,017 spectators. This makes it one of the largest stadiums in the Premier League.
What is the seating capacity of the City Ground?
The City Ground has a capacity of 30,445 seats. There are ongoing plans to expand the Main Stand to increase this capacity to over 35,000.
Is there a significant rivalry between the two clubs?
While not a traditional “local derby,” there is a competitive rivalry based on their historical success. Both clubs have won the European Cup (now Champions League), which is a rare feat for English clubs outside the “Big Six.”
How much are hospitality tickets for Man City vs Forest?
Hospitality packages at the Etihad can range from £250 to over £1,000 per person. These include perks like fine dining, private bars, and padded seats in the stadium’s middle tier.
Can I take a stadium tour on match day?
No, stadium tours are typically suspended on match days at both the Etihad and the City Ground. It is best to book tours for the day before or the day after the game.
What are the best pubs for away fans at the Etihad?
Away fans are generally welcomed in the Ancoats area of Manchester. The “Star and Garter” and various bars near Piccadilly Station are popular choices for visiting supporters before heading to the stadium.
Final Thoughts
The historical narrative of Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City has transformed from a nostalgic 1970s power struggle into a high-stakes modern Premier League fixture. While Manchester City’s financial might and tactical precision under Pep Guardiola have led to a period of dominance—highlighted by their recent 2-1 victory at the City Ground on December 27, 2025—Nottingham Forest’s resilience under Sean Dyche has proven they are no longer easy prey. Forest’s ability to secure points against elite sides and their deep run into European competition in the 2025/26 season signal a club firmly re-established at the top level.
As we look toward their next meeting at the Etihad Stadium on March 4, 2026, the stakes could not be higher. City remains embroiled in a fierce title race with Arsenal, while Forest continues to fight for a top-half finish and European qualification. This fixture remains a perfect microcosm of the Premier League: a blend of historic prestige, tactical innovation, and the unpredictable “any given Sunday” nature of English football.
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