Nottingham Forest welcome the champions to the City Ground on Saturday, aiming to replicate last season’s heroics.
Sean Dyche’s side beat Manchester City 1-0 in this fixture last term. Now, they will look to secure back-to-back home league wins against the Citizens for the first time in 30 years. Despite a recent defeat to Fulham, Forest have been strong at home.
They have won four of their last six games at the City Ground. However, Dyche has a miserable personal record against Pep Guardiola, having failed to win in 16 attempts. He will need a tactical masterclass to break that duck.
Nottingham Forest team news
Sean Dyche is dealing with several key absences. Chris Wood remains sidelined with a knee injury, while Ola Aina is not yet match fit. Furthermore, the Africa Cup of Nations has stripped the squad of Ibrahim Sangaré and Willy Boly. However, there is positive news with the return of Nicolas Domínguez and Taiwo Awoniyi to the squad.
In goal, Matz Sels is also back, but reports suggest John Victor will retain the starting spot. In midfield, Ryan Yates and Dan Ndoye are being assessed, so Douglas Luiz and Elliot Anderson are likely to anchor the engine room.
Nottingham Forest predicted Lineup
Nottingham Forest predicted XI: John Victor; Williams, Murillo, Milenković, Savona; Douglas Luiz, Anderson; Hudson-Odoi, Gibbs-White, Hutchinson; Igor Jesus
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the City Ground on Saturday, 27 December 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:30 pm GMT.
How to watch Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Coverage starts at 11:30 am GMT.
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