Match Preview: Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City (Premier League)

Following a triumphant win in midweek, Manchester City return to action against Nottingham Forest this weekend, aiming to maintain their lead at the top of the table.

On Wednesday night, City travelled south to take on title challengers Arsenal, in what was widely-regarded as the fixture of the season for Pep Guardiola and his players. It was known prior to kick-off that a win would move City to the top of the Premier League table, separated from the Gunners on goal difference.

Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring in the 24th minute, flicking the ball over the head of an onrushing Aaron Ramsdale following a poor back-pass from Takehiro Tomiyasu.

Bukayo Saka would level the game shortly after from the penalty spot, after Manchester City’s number one between the sticks Ederson carelessly collided with Eddie Nketiah inside the area.

Following the Gunners’ equaliser, City would regain control of the match, with Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland finding the back of the net in the second-half, getting the Sky Blues the three points they desperately needed.

This weekend, it is the challenge of Nottingham Forest that threatens Manchester City, with the hosts coming into the match off the back of a 2-0 defeat against Fulham courtesy of goals from Willian and Manor Soloman.

When City last took on Forest, the reigning Premier League champions came out victorious in a 6-0 thrashing, with Erling Haaland scoring a hat-trick, Julian Alvarez providing a brace, and Joao Cancelo also putting his name on the scoresheet.

A win on Saturday would maintain Manchester City’s position at the top of the Premier League, irrespective of the outcome of Arsenal’s game against Aston Villa earlier in the day. However, should the Gunners fall to defeat or draw, then a win would move City as outright leaders.

When?

Manchester City take on Nottingham Forest on Saturday 18 February with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 BST.

Where?

Saturday’s fixture will take place at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground.

How To Watch?

For viewers in the United Kingdom, Saturday’s match will not be broadcast on television.

For viewers in the United States, you can view the match on Peacock with kick-off scheduled for 10:00 a.m. EST.

Full channel listings for viewers elsewhere around the globe are available here!