A must-win fixture awaits Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City as they welcome a struggling Leeds United side to the Etihad on Saturday afternoon. After consecutive defeats across all competitions, the champions are in need of a response to keep pace in the Premier League title race.
City’s 3–1 defeat at Newcastle last weekend saw them slip to third, seven points behind Arsenal, and a midweek loss to Bayer Leverkusen only compounded their current frustrations. With Arsenal hosting Chelsea on Sunday, this match presents a crucial opportunity for Guardiola’s side to apply pressure at the top.
For Leeds, meanwhile, the picture is far bleaker. Daniel Farke’s side have fallen into the relegation zone following three straight defeats, conceding eight goals in the process. The trip to Manchester marks the beginning of a brutal run of fixtures that also includes meetings with Chelsea and Liverpool in the space of a week — a daunting task for a squad low on confidence.
Team News
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola is expected to recall several key starters after fielding a heavily rotated side in the Champions League defeat to Bayer Leverkusen. Gianluigi Donnarumma is set to replace James Trafford in goal, while Erling Haaland — born in Leeds — will return to lead the line.
Rúben Dias, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Jérémy Doku, and Rayan Cherki are all likely to be restored to the starting XI as Guardiola seeks to rediscover rhythm and intensity. Rodri remains doubtful as he continues to recover from a hamstring issue sustained earlier this month, while **Mateo Kovačić**is a confirmed long-term absentee.
Leeds United
Leeds will be without midfielder Anton Stach, who is ruled out under concussion protocol after suffering a heavy fall against Aston Villa. Farke confirmed earlier this week that Stach will sit out at least one more fixture. The Leeds boss also confirmed the absence of Sean Longstaff due to a calf injury, while Sebastiaan Bornauw will be a "late call."
Ao Tanaka and **Ilia Gruev**are expected to deputise in midfield, partnering Ethan Ampadu in the engine room. Brenden Aaronson and Noah Okafor should retain their places in attack alongside Lukas Nmecha. Apart from the above-mentioned absences, Farke has a fully fit squad to choose from but remains under growing pressure to produce results amid Leeds’ recent slide.
Likely Lineups
Manchester City
Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O'Reilly; González, Silva, Foden; Doku, Haaland, Cherki
Leeds United
Perri; Bogle, Struijk, Rodon, Gudmundsson; Ampadu, Gruev, Tanaka; Aaronson, Okafor, Nmecha
Key Players
Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Born in Leeds during his father Alf-Inge’s spell at the club, Erling Haaland will be eager to add another chapter to his story. The Norwegian leads the **Premier League**’s scoring charts and remains City’s most lethal weapon in front of goal. His physicality, movement, and relentless goal threat will test a Leeds backline that has looked increasingly vulnerable in recent weeks.
Ethan Ampadu (Leeds United)
If Leeds are to stand any chance of getting something from this fixture, much will depend on captain Ethan Ampadu. The Welsh international has been a consistent performer in an otherwise inconsistent side, offering calm leadership and defensive stability. His ability to screen the defence and dictate tempo under pressure will be vital against City’s direct attacking transitions.
Where is the game being played?
The match takes place at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester — a venue where City have lost just once all season.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM GMT on Saturday, 29 November 2025.
How can I watch?
The match will not be televised live in the UK due to the 3 PM blackout rule. Highlights will be available via the Sky Sports App and YouTube from 5:15 PM GMT, while Match of the Day will feature extended coverage on BBC One at 10:25 PM.