Match at Etihad Stadium, Manchester, in the Premier League (Regular Season - 29), kicks off on 2026-03-04 at 19:30 UTC. City come in as title chasers in 2nd place on 59 points, while Forest sit 17th and fighting to stay clear of the drop.
Manchester City Availability
City have several defensive and midfield concerns. Josko Gvardiol is ruled out with a broken leg, while Mateo Kovacic is sidelined by a heel injury. Young defender Max Alleyne is facing a late fitness test after a knock. The major worry is Erling Haaland, doubtful with an injury despite his league‑leading 22 goals and 7 assists; he is likely to undergo a late fitness assessment. Midfielder N. O’Reilly is also uncertain with an ankle problem. Creative hub Rayan Cherki, who has 3 goals and 7 assists, is fit and expected to start, as are key technicians Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva.
Nottingham Forest Availability
Forest’s back line is stretched: Willy Boly, John Victor, N. Savona and striker Chris Wood are all ruled out with knee injuries, while goalkeeper S. Ortega is also out with a calf problem. Attacking responsibility will fall on Morgan Gibbs-White, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Taiwo Awoniyi, all available.
City’s attacking threat hinges on Haaland’s fitness; without his 22 goals, their cutting edge would be significantly reduced. Forest, meanwhile, lose Wood’s presence up front and depth in defence, weakening both penalty-box areas.
