Manchester City head to Brighton in what is a must-win Premier League fixture after recent setbacks in both domestic and Champions League games.
Having lost 2-1 to Bournemouth and 4-1 in the Champions League, City are under pressure to regain form. Brighton, while also coming off a loss to Liverpool, have shown resilience in recent matches, making this encounter at the Amex Stadium one to watch.
Manchester City Recent Form
Manchester City have hit a surprising rough patch, suffering defeats to both Bournemouth in the Premier League and Sporting in the Champions League.
Known for their usual consistency under Pep Guardiola, these back-to-back losses have raised questions about City’s adaptability, especially in the absence of key defensive players.
Injury and Team News
Brighton will be missing Adam Webster, James Milner, and Solly March. However, they may see the return of Yankuba Minteh and Joao Pedro, while Matt O’Riley is also a potential inclusion.
Last Manchester City Lineup
Here’s how City lined up in their recent match:
Brighton Recent Form
Brighton have displayed encouraging form despite their recent 2-1 loss to Liverpool, showcasing an attack-minded approach under relatively new manager Fabian Hürzeler.
The Seagulls have been consistently competitive, even against top-six sides, and will look to capitalise on City's recent defensive lapses.
Injury and Team News
For Manchester City, John Stones and Ruben Dias remain doubtful, and the long-term absences of Rodri and Oscar Bobb continue to impact squad rotation.
The potential return of Kevin De Bruyne could give City’s midfield the stability it needs.
Last Brighton Lineup
Here’s how Brighton lined up in their recent match:
Brighton vs Man City - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Referee: Sam Barrott.
Assistants: Lee Betts, Steve Meredith.
Fourth official: Andy Davies.
VAR: Jarred Gillett.
Assistant VAR: Stuart Burt.
Manchester City Player to Watch
With Kevin De Bruyne gradually returning to fitness, his presence could reignite City's midfield creativity and supply to Haaland. He’s a crucial playmaker with the vision to break down Brighton's defence.
Brighton Player to Watch
Kaoru Mitoma has been pivotal in Brighton's recent performances. His pace and dribbling pose a challenge for City’s defence, especially if Dias or Stones are unavailable.
Prediction
With Manchester City aiming to bounce back, they are expected to dominate possession and look for an early goal to unsettle Brighton. Brighton, however, have shown they can capitalise on defensive errors, suggesting this game could be tighter than expected.
Our Predicted score: Manchester City 2-1 Brighton.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Manchester City to Win – Despite recent losses, City have a strong track record in bouncing back, especially in high-stakes games.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 Goals – With both teams’ attacking styles and defensive injuries, expect a high-scoring match.
Tip 3
Both Teams to Score – Brighton’s recent form indicates they’ll create chances, while City’s defence looks vulnerable.
