Nottingham Forest vs Man City
Premier League
Nottingham Forest
Manchester CityThe Premier League heats up as Nottingham Forest vs Man City takes center stage at the City Ground on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 12:30 PM GMT. With Forest currently holding third place, just one point ahead of fourth-placed City, this fixture carries significant implications for Champions League qualification.
Both teams are coming off contrasting runs, with Forest thriving at home and City dealing with injury setbacks. Will Forest continue their impressive form, or will City’s firepower prove too much to handle?
Team News and Injury Updates
Nottingham Forest
Forest enters this crucial encounter in good shape, with most key players available. The only major absentee is backup goalkeeper Carlos Miguel, who remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Manager Nuno Espírito Santo is expected to stick with his strongest lineup, especially considering Forest’s remarkable home record—unbeaten in their last nine matches at the City Ground. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Nicolás Domínguez and Elliot Anderson set to dictate the tempo.
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola faces significant defensive headaches. Nathan Ake is ruled out for up to 11 weeks following foot surgery, while John Stones and Manuel Akanji are also unavailable due to injuries. These absences leave City’s defense vulnerable, forcing Guardiola to explore alternative options.
In midfield, City will also miss Rodri, sidelined with a long-term ACL injury. However, there is optimism about his return before the season concludes.
Despite these setbacks, City still boasts an elite attacking lineup, with Erling Haaland, Jérémy Doku, and Omar Marmoush leading the charge.
⚽️⚽️⚽️ Haaland
— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 7, 2025
⚽️ Cancelo
⚽️⚽️ Alvarez
Looking back on our 6-0 victory against Nottingham Forest 👊 pic.twitter.com/FR57uwFKrl
Predicted Lineups
Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Matz Sels
- Defenders: Neco Williams, Nikola Milenković, Murillo, Ola Aina
- Midfielders: Nicolás Domínguez, Elliot Anderson
- Attackers: Callum Hudson-Odoi, Morgan Gibbs-White, Anthony Elanga
- Striker: Chris Wood
Manchester City (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Ederson
- Defenders: Rico Lewis, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rúben Dias, Joško Gvardiol
- Midfielders: Mateo Kovačić, Nico González, Savinho
- Forwards: Omar Marmoush, Erling Haaland, Jérémy Doku
Forest vs Man City: Match Prediction
This matchup presents a fascinating tactical battle. Nottingham Forest’s unbeaten home run makes them formidable opponents, especially with Chris Wood in outstanding form. The striker has netted 18 goals this season, making him a key player for Forest’s attacking hopes.
On the other hand, Manchester City’s attacking prowess remains unmatched, even with their defensive concerns. Erling Haaland, who has already scored 20 league goals, will be City’s biggest threat. His ability to capitalize on defensive lapses could be the difference in this game.
Considering Forest’s defensive resilience and City’s injuries, this match could be a tight contest. However, Guardiola’s side possesses enough firepower to edge out a narrow victory.
Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Manchester City
Forest vs Man City FAQs
When and where is the Nottingham Forest vs Man City match?
The match is on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 12:30 PM GMT, at the City Ground in Nottingham.
How can I watch the match live?
In the UK, the game will be broadcast on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Live streaming is available via the Discovery+ app.
What is the current Premier League standing of both teams?
Nottingham Forest is third with 48 points, while Manchester City sits fourth with 47 points.
Who are the key players to watch in this match?
For Nottingham Forest, Chris Wood is the danger man with 18 goals this season. For Manchester City, Erling Haaland leads the attack with 20 league goals.
What is the injury status of both teams?
Forest’s only notable absentee is goalkeeper Carlos Miguel. City, however, is without Nathan Ake, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Rodri due to injuries.
