Introduction
The fixture between Manchester City and Burnley may not draw the fever pitch tension of a derby, but over time it has built its own intrigue. In most seasons, it has been a one-sided narrative yet the matches still hold storylines worth capturing. Here, we trace a refined Man City vs Burnley timeline, highlight critical trends, and bring you the latest from 2025.
Historical Timeline of Man City vs Burnley
Early Encounters & First Meetings
The clubs first crossed paths in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In October 1897, City visited Burnley and drew 1 - 1 in a Division Two match. A few years later, on 10 March 1900, City hosted Burnley and won 1 - 0 in League Division One. These early fixtures laid a foundational rivalry.
Records from 11v11 show those results and many in between.
Mid-20th Century Clashes
Through the 1920s, 1930s and beyond, the two sides met periodically in top divisions and cup competitions. City often held the upper hand, but Burnley occasionally struck back. Over decades, the balance tilted heavily in favour of City.
Modern Era & Premier League Battles
From the 1990s onward, as both clubs rose and fell, matches carried more weight. City’s resurgence in the 2000s coincided with dominant runs over Burnley. According to stats, out of 22 head-to-heads since 2009, City have won 18, Burnley just 1, and there have been 3 draws.
In more recent seasons, City have strung together successive wins. In top-flight matches, City have won their last 10 against Burnley. This reflects both clubs’ trajectories: City as perennial contenders, Burnley often battling for survival or promotion.
Key Trends & Patterns
- Dominance by City: In the direct matchups, City win rate is overwhelming.
- Low scoring from Burnley: Many matches see Burnley failing to score, especially away to City.
- Home advantage matters: At the Etihad, City have often managed clean sheets and high control.
- Recurring player narratives: When stars like Haaland or Foden are fit, City tend to break through. Burnley’s threats often hinge on counterattacks or set pieces.
2025 Match & “Today” Update
Today 27 September 2025: The two sides meet again at the Etihad Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 pm BST.
Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Erling Haaland is fit and available for selection after recovering from a back spasm. Meanwhile, Burnley’s managerial setup remains under pressure, and they aim to defy historical patterns.
One subplot this season: Kyle Walker, formerly a long-serving City full-back, now plays for Burnley. His return adds emotional weight and a narrative twist. Guardiola has praised Walker’s legacy even ahead of this tie.
Another development: Manchester City re-signed goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley earlier this summer in a £27 million deal. This adds a transfer subplot when the two clubs clash.
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FAQ
What is the head-to-head record between Man City and Burnley?
Since 2009, Manchester City have won 18 of 22 matches, Burnley 1, with 3 draws.
How many times has Burnley beaten City?
Very rarely in modern times. In the past two decades, Burnley’s wins over City are almost negligible.
Who has scored most in City vs Burnley ties?
Haaland and Foden often feature heavily. City’s attacking stars dominate those stats. (You can cross-check with match-by-match data.)
When was the first City vs Burnley match?
One of their earliest meetings was October 1897, a 1 - 1 draw.
Will Haaland play in the 2025 match?
Yes Pep Guardiola has confirmed he is fit and set to start.
Does home advantage matter in this fixture?
Yes. City have often controlled matches at Etihad and drawn on that familiarity. Burnley tend to struggle there.
Why is Kyle Walker’s presence notable?
Walker spent many years at City before joining Burnley. His return adds personal tension and narrative for fans and media.
Conclusion
The “Man City vs Burnley timeline” tells a story of dominance, clear statistical edges, and occasional sparks of drama. In 2025, despite historical patterns, fresh elements like Walker’s return and Trafford’s transfer add narrative layers.
