Manchester City Fixtures 2026: What Football Fans Need to Know

5 January 2026 Sport

Introduction: Why Manchester City’s Fixture List Matters

Manchester City’s fixture list for 2026 has become essential reading for football fans across the globe. The 2025–26 season marks the club’s 131st year in existence and their 24th consecutive season in England’s top flight, with City competing in the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Champions League. With Manchester City currently sitting 2nd in the Premier League with 40 points, just 5 points behind Arsenal after 18 matches, every fixture carries significant weight in the title race.

Key January 2026 Fixtures

January represents a crucial period for Manchester City’s campaign. City hosted Chelsea for their first Premier League home fixture of 2026 at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 4 January, with kick-off scheduled for 17:30 (UK). The Manchester derby follows on Saturday 17 January at Old Trafford, a fierce rivalry that always delivers drama and could have huge impact on the title race. The month concludes with City travelling to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday 31 January, where Spurs often prove difficult opponents.

Champions League Challenge

Beyond domestic competition, City faces a demanding European schedule. Manchester City were drawn against Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Villarreal, Napoli, Bodø/Glimt, Galatasaray and Monaco in the league phase. These fixtures will test Pep Guardiola’s squad depth throughout the campaign.

Squad Changes and Implications

This marks City’s first season since 2014–15 without midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who departed for Napoli, and the first since 2016–17 without Kyle Walker and Ederson, with Bernardo Silva named as the new captain. These changes add intrigue to how City will perform across their busy fixture schedule.

Looking Ahead: February and Beyond

City begin February with a challenging trip to Anfield on Saturday 7 February, a fixture that is always fiercely contested and could be decisive for both clubs’ championship ambitions. The packed schedule continues through spring, with crucial encounters that will determine whether City can challenge for silverware on multiple fronts.

Conclusion: A Season-Defining Schedule

Manchester City’s 2026 fixtures present both opportunities and challenges. With intense Premier League competition, demanding Champions League ties, and domestic cup commitments, City must navigate one of football’s most gruelling schedules. For supporters, each fixture offers compelling entertainment and potentially decisive moments in the title race. Whether City can reclaim their domestic dominance whilst competing in Europe will define their season’s success.