Manchester City faced the K League All-Stars in a pre-season friendly at Seoul World Cup Stadium on Wednesday as Pep Guardiola’s side continued preparations for the 2026-27 campaign. The match served as an opportunity to test new signings, assess squad fitness, and give young players valuable minutes. City started brightly, dominating possession and creating early chances against the Korean All-Star team.
Manchester City Take Early Control
Manchester City wasted little time imposing themselves on the game. The Premier League champions controlled possession from the opening whistle and pressed high, forcing the K League All-Stars onto the back foot.
Their positive start was rewarded inside the opening stages when Rayan Ait-Nouri found the back of the net to give City an early lead. However, the hosts responded well as Kim Dae-won capitalized on an opportunity to level the score, giving the home supporters plenty to cheer about.
City Regain the Advantage Before Half-Time
Despite conceding the equalizer, Manchester City continued to dictate the tempo of the match.
Their pressure paid off once again when Tijjani Reijnders restored City’s lead with a composed finish following a well-worked attacking move. Just minutes later, young forward Divin Mubama extended the advantage, making it 3-1 before the break.
City’s quick passing, movement off the ball, and attacking intensity proved difficult for the K League All-Stars to contain during the opening half.
Important Test Ahead of the New Season
Although the match carries no competitive significance, it represents an important stage of Manchester City’s preparations for the upcoming campaign.
Pep Guardiola has used the pre-season tour to evaluate tactical combinations, integrate new players, and improve overall match fitness before the Premier League season begins.
For the K League All-Stars, facing one of Europe’s elite clubs provides valuable experience against world-class opposition.
New Faces Continue to Impress
Several players made a strong impression during the opening stages of the match.
Rayan Ait-Nouri marked his appearance with an early goal, while Tijjani Reijnders showcased his quality in midfield with a confident performance. Young striker Divin Mubama also continued his impressive development by getting on the scoresheet.
For the K League All-Stars, Kim Dae-won emerged as one of the standout performers after scoring the team’s first goal.
City’s Asia Tour Continues
The fixture forms part of Manchester City’s pre-season tour of Asia ahead of the 2026-27 season. The club is using the tour to build fitness, develop squad chemistry, and prepare for another demanding domestic and European campaign.
Supporters are also getting an early look at new arrivals and academy prospects, many of whom are expected to play important roles throughout the season.
Live Match Update
Manchester City looked in control during the opening stages and established a 3-1 lead through goals from Rayan Ait-Nouri, Tijjani Reijnders, and Divin Mubama, while Kim Dae-won scored for the K League All-Stars.
The final score and complete match analysis will be available once the pre-season friendly concludes.