The lights will shine bright over Manchester on Wednesday night, November 5, 2025, as Manchester City welcome Borussia Dortmund to the Etihad Stadium for a thrilling UEFA Champions League group-stage encounter. This matchup is not only about securing top spot in the group but also marks a significant night for Egyptian star Omar Marmoush, who returns from injury to face one of Europe’s toughest teams.
⚽ Manchester City: Focused and Hungry for Another Statement Win
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City enter this fixture as one of the tournament favorites once again. The reigning Premier League champions have showcased their typical brand of fast, possession-based football, dominating both domestically and in Europe.
City currently sit comfortably near the top of the group, having collected crucial points from earlier victories against Red Star Belgrade and Celtic, while drawing away in Dortmund in the reverse fixture. With ten points already in their pocket, another win could all but guarantee their qualification to the knockout stages.
However, Guardiola has warned his players against complacency. “Borussia Dortmund are always dangerous,” he said in the pre-match press conference. “They are fast, organized, and technically gifted. We must be at our best.”
🇪🇬 Omar Marmoush’s Return: A Boost for City and Egyptian Fans
All eyes will also be on Omar Marmoush, who is expected to start after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during Egypt’s World Cup qualifying campaign. The 26-year-old forward joined Manchester City last January and has impressed Guardiola with his versatility and work ethic.
Marmoush has already scored once this season — a beautiful curling effort against Swansea City in the EFL Cup, earning him high praise from City fans and pundits alike. Now, he’s eager to make his mark on the European stage.
For Egyptian fans, his presence adds extra excitement to the night. Marmoush is seen as a symbol of the new generation of Egyptian footballers succeeding in Europe, following in the footsteps of Mohamed Salah.
⚫ Dortmund’s Challenge: Speed, Youth, and Pressure
On the other side, Borussia Dortmund arrive in Manchester knowing that a positive result is crucial to keeping their qualification hopes alive. The German giants sit third in the group, two points behind second-placed Inter Milan, and must secure at least a draw to stay in contention.
Led by manager Edin Terzić, Dortmund’s squad features a mix of youth and experience. Players like Julian Brandt, Karim Adeyemi, and Niclas Füllkrug bring dynamism up front, while Mats Hummels provides leadership in defense.
Their main challenge, however, will be stopping City’s relentless attacking machine led by Erling Haaland — who faces his former club once again.
🧠Tactical Outlook
Expect Guardiola’s men to control possession and play through the wings, with Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku providing width. Marmoush’s movement between the lines could be key in unsettling Dortmund’s defense.
Dortmund, meanwhile, are likely to play on the counter, hoping to exploit City’s high defensive line. Their speed in transition could cause problems, especially if Adeyemi and Brandt find space behind City’s fullbacks.
🔮 Prediction
It promises to be a night of end-to-end football. Manchester City’s depth and home advantage make them favorites, but Dortmund’s counterattack can’t be ignored.
Prediction: Manchester City 3 – 1 Borussia Dortmund.