When and Where the Match Will Be Played

The Manchester City vs Bayer Leverkusen showdown for Matchday 5 of the UEFA Champions League will take place this Tuesday, November 25, at 3:00 p.m. ET at the iconic Etihad Stadium. The match will be officiated by Portuguese referee João Pinheiro, known for his firm, fast-paced style.

Manchester City’s Match Preview

Manchester City arrive in excellent form, currently sitting in 4th place with three wins and one draw in the league phase. Their most recent result was a dominant 4–1 victory at home against Borussia Dortmund, a performance that reaffirmed their consistency, depth and attacking firepower.

Pep Guardiola’s side continues to look like one of the tournament’s most complete teams, fluid in possession and lethal in transition. With qualification on the line and momentum on their side, City approach this fixture with confidence—and with the added emotional note of Guardiola’s 100th Champions League appearance as a manager.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Match Preview

The story is drastically different for Bayer Leverkusen, who sit in a surprising 21st place, with only 5 points from one win, two draws and one defeat. Despite their poor position, their latest result delivered a small spark: a tight 1–0 victory away at Benfica, a win that injected much-needed belief into a struggling squad.

Xabi Alonso’s departure last summer left the team in transition, and their Champions League form has suffered. Still, Leverkusen remain a club with pedigree in Germany and Europe, and they carry enough talent to trouble anyone on their day.

Key Players to Watch

For Manchester City, the spotlight is locked on Erling Haaland, whose relentless scoring pace has once again placed him on track to rewrite Champions League history. Every match seems like an opportunity for him to break another record.

For Bayer Leverkusen, the name to watch is Patrik Schick, the Czech striker and emotional leader of the squad. Although his Champions League campaign has been quiet, his goal against Benfica hints at a possible resurgence—and Leverkusen desperately need him at his best.

Keys to the Match

City will look to impose their rhythm early: possession dominance, positional structure and quick vertical attacks. Leverkusen must stay compact, survive the early storm and rely on Schick’s movement and countering ability.

Final Word

Manchester City enter as clear favorites, both for current form and squad depth. Even with Leverkusen’s historical weight in Germany and Europe, the momentum points heavily toward the Premier League champions. With Guardiola celebrating his 100th match in the UCL, all signs indicate he could mark the milestone with a victory at the Etihad.