The reigning champions have experienced an inconsistent season as they currently sit one point behind Forest.
Nottingham Forest will host Manchester City in a crucial Premier League fixture at The City Ground on Saturday, March 8. Both teams are in the race for Champions League qualification, making this encounter pivotal for their respective campaigns.
Manager Nuno Espírito Santo has transformed Forest into genuine top-four contenders this season. However, they have taken only one point from their last three league games, including a hard-fought 0-0 draw with second-placed Arsenal. Despite this dip in form, Forest remain unbeaten in their last nine home matches across all competitions.
Meanwhile, the reigning champions have experienced an inconsistent season as they currently sit one point behind Forest. City’s league form has been erratic, with recent victories against Chelsea and Tottenham contrasted by defeats to Arsenal and Liverpool. However, striker Erling Haaland has returned to form, scoring in the recent 1-0 win over Tottenham and providing an assist in the FA Cup victory against Plymouth.
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This fixture promises an exciting contest as both teams aim to secure vital points in their pursuit of European football. Manchester City will aim to complete the double over Nottingham Forest for the second successive season after securing a comfortable 3-0 victory in the reverse fixture at the Etihad Stadium in early December. However, considering Forest’s strong home record and City’s inconsistent form, this match is expected to be closely contested between the two teams.
When: 7:30 am ET on March 8, 2025
Where: The City Ground
Telecast: TUDN and Paramount+ channels
Streaming: TUDN and Paramount+ apps and websites
There are no major injury concerns for Nuno Espírito Santo for this match with Nottingham Forest’s only injury absentee being backup goalkeeper Carlos Miguel.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are facing several injury concerns. They will be missing at least five first-team players for their trip to the City Ground. Nathan Ake, John Stones, Rodri, Oscar Bobb and Manuel Akanji are all expected to miss this clash.
Nottingham Forest Probable Lineup:
Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Danilo, Anderson; Elanga, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Wood
Manchester City Probable Lineup:
Ederson; Lewis, Khusanov, Dias, Gvardiol; Gonzalez, Kovacic; Savinho, Marmoush, Doku; Haaland
For Nottingham Forest, Morgan Gibbs-White will be a key figure, orchestrating play from the midfield with his vision and creativity. His ability to unlock defenses and link up with forwards like Hudson-Odoi, Elanga and Wood could prove decisive.
For City, Erling Haaland remains the biggest threat, with his goalscoring prowess and physical presence making him a nightmare for defenders. He will look to exploit any gaps in Forest’s backline. On the wing, Jeremy Doku’s direct running and trickery will be essential in breaking down a well-organized Forest defense.
Odds via BetMGM
| Teams | Moneyline | Total Goals |
| Nottingham Forest | Win: +280 Draw: +275 | Over 2.5: -163 Under 2.5: +130 |
| Manchester City | Win: -110 Draw: +275 | Over 3.5: +163 Under 3.5: -192 |
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