Manchester City kick off their 2024/25 FA Cup campaign with a high-stakes clash against League Two underdogs Salford City at the Etihad Stadium. While the Cityzens aim to maintain their winning momentum, Salford, owned by Manchester United legends, are out to script an FA Cup fairytale.
Pep Guardiola’s side comes into this fixture on the back of two impressive Premier League wins, signaling a resurgence after months of underwhelming performances. With a packed January schedule featuring Chelsea, PSG, and Arsenal, this game provides an opportunity for City to rotate their squad and showcase emerging talent.
For Salford City, who are flying high in League Two and on a six-match winning streak, this is a chance to shock their local Premier League rivals and grab the national spotlight.
Key Match Details: Manchester City vs Salford City
- Location: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England
- Date: Saturday, January 11, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 17:45 GMT / 12:45 ET / 09:45 PT
- Referee: Joshua Smith
Head-to-Head: Manchester City vs Salford City
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Manchester City and Salford City, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this FA Cup third-round clash.
Recent Form – Who Has the Edge?
Manchester City:
- Man City 4-1 West Ham (04/01/25)
- Leicester City 0-2 Man City (29/12/24)
- Man City 1-1 Everton (26/12/24)
- Aston Villa 2-1 Man City (21/12/24)
- Man City 1-2 Man Utd (15/12/24)
Salford City:
- MK Dons 0-1 Salford (04/01/25)
- Harrogate 0-2 Salford (01/01/25)
- Salford 1-0 Morecambe (29/12/24)
- Salford 3-0 Barrow (26/12/24)
- Accrington 0-2 Salford (21/12/24)
How to Watch Manchester City vs Salford Live – TV Channels and Streaming Info
- UK: BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport Website
- US: ESPN+, ESPN App
- Canada: Sportsnet World, Sportsnet Now, Sportsnet One
Manchester City Team News: Injuries and Predicted Lineup
Pep Guardiola is expected to shuffle his squad, giving young talents a platform to shine while resting first-team regulars. However, City are dealing with significant injuries:
Out: John Stones, Ruben Dias, Rodri (ACL), Oscar Bobb (broken leg).
Unlikely to feature: Ederson, despite returning to training.
Predicted Man City Lineup (3-2-4-1):
Ortega; Walker, Simpson-Pusey, Gvardiol; O’Reilly, Gundogan; Doku, McAtee, Nunes, Grealish; Haaland.
Salford City Team News: Full Strength for an FA Cup Upset?
Salford manager Karl Robinson is likely to field his strongest XI as his side aims to pull off a historic upset. The Ammies, sitting third in League Two, are in excellent form and will look to take advantage of City’s defensive absences.
Former Premier League players James Chester and Luke Garbutt could provide valuable experience, while Ben Woodburn is doubtful due to injury.
Predicted Salford Lineup (3-5-2):
Young; Edwards, Negru, Berkoe; Taylor, Fornah, Ashley, Lund, Garbutt; Kouassi, Stockton.
Manchester City vs Salford City Prediction – Can the Underdogs Make History?
Manchester City will be overwhelming favorites to advance to the FA Cup fourth round. While Salford City’s recent form makes them dangerous, it’s hard to see them overcoming the quality and depth of Guardiola’s squad.
Salford may capitalize on City’s defensive frailties to score, but the hosts are likely to dominate proceedings. Expect a comfortable victory for the Premier League giants.
Prediction: Manchester City 4-1 Salford City