By Man City’s high standards, it has been a disappointing campaign. They suffered early exits in the Champions League and the Carabao Cup in addition to putting up a rather weak defence of their Premier League crown.
Having said that, the season can still be salvaged somewhat if they can lift a piece of silverware and seal a top-five finish which would guarantee a spot amongst Europe’s elite for the 2025/25 campaign.
Though, standing in their way is a Nottingham Forest side with identical ambitions and one that beat them at the City Ground just last month.
Nuno Espírito Santo’s side have been the surprise package this season and stopped the rot just in time to take on Man City by recording a confidence-boosting 2-1 win over Tottenham on Monday night.
Date, kick-off time and venue
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City is scheduled for a 4.30pm BST kick-off on Sunday, April 27, 2025.
The match will take place at Wembley Stadium.
Where to watch Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on ITV1, which is free to air.
Live stream: ITVX will offer a live stream service.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog!
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City team news
Forest will be without key duo Ryan Yates and Neco Williams because of suspension. Ola Aina is a massive doubt with a calf problem that has sidelined the defender since the 1-0 win over Manchester United at the beginning of the month.
Man City can’t call upon top scorer Erling Haaland or influential midfielder Rodri because of injury. However, Pep Guardiola has revealed the pair are making good progress, whilst the game could come too soon for goalkeeper Ederson to make his return.
No fresh injury concerns have been reported following the last-gasp 2-1 win over Aston Villa in midweek – a match that saw Manuel Akanji make his comeback – so John Stones and Nathan Ake remain sidelined.
Doubtful: Ederson
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Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City prediction
It would not be a surprise if the game follows a pattern where Man City dominate possession for large spells and Forest soak up the pressure and look to hit on the counter. This tactic worked to perfection in the league meeting not so long ago with Callum Hudson-Odoi netting a late winner.
However, Wembley is a much bigger pitch and the fact that Guardiola’s side are more used to this occasion could prove decisive. It will be a tight encounter with City winning, but only just.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
Nottingham Forest wins: 27
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City match odds
Nottingham Forest to qualify: 21/10
Manchester City to qualify: 4/11
Odds via Betfair (subject to change).