City Aim to Avoid Consecutive League Losses as High-Flying Brighton Visit Etihad
The Premier League Matchday 29 serves up an intriguing clash this Saturday as defending champions Manchester City host an in-form Brighton side at the Etihad Stadium. After a shocking defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend, Pep Guardiola’s side must regain their footing to keep their top-four hopes alive. Meanwhile, Brighton, riding an impressive unbeaten streak, will look to capitalize on City's recent struggles.
Manchester City: Searching for Stability Amid Inconsistencies
It has been a turbulent season for Manchester City, with the reigning champions struggling to maintain their usual dominance. Last weekend’s 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest marked their ninth league defeat of the season—an unwanted record under Pep Guardiola since his arrival in 2016. Sitting fifth in the table with 47 points from 28 games, City are now two points adrift of the coveted top four.
Despite their inconsistent form, City have remained a formidable force at home, losing only three league matches at the Etihad this season. Notably, they have not suffered back-to-back home defeats in the league since May 2021. Their attacking prowess remains intact, having scored two or more goals in three of their last four home matches. However, defensive vulnerabilities have been evident, conceding in 10 of their 13 home league games this campaign.
Brighton: Aiming to Extend Unbeaten Run
Brighton arrive at the Etihad in high spirits, boasting a four-match unbeaten run in the Premier League. Their latest victory—a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Fulham, sealed by a last-minute Joao Pedro penalty—underlines their resilience. Under Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton have enjoyed their best run of form since reaching the top flight, currently level with City on 47 points and only two points off the top four.
The Seagulls have also excelled away from home, winning three of their last four road fixtures while netting at least twice in each of those victories. Their attacking efficiency and newfound defensive solidity will pose a serious challenge for a City side under pressure to respond.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester City (4-2-3-1)
Ederson; Gvardiol, Dias, Khusanov, Lewis; Nico, Kovačić; Doku, De Bruyne, Marmoush; Haaland.
Brighton (4-2-3-1)
Verbruggen; Hinshelwood, Van Hecke, Webster, Lamptey; Baleba, Ayar; Minteh, Rutter, Mitoma; Pedro.
Key Match Stats
Manchester City
- 68% of their matches this season have seen over 2.5 goals.
- Conceded in 10 of their 13 home league matches.
- 26% of goals conceded came in the first 15 minutes.
- 32% of goals conceded came after the 75th minute.
Brighton
- Have won their last four league matches.
- 68% of their games have featured over 2.5 goals.
- Scored at least two goals in each of their last four matches.
- Haven't drawn in their last 11 league outings.
Recent Head-to-Head (Last Five Meetings)
- Brighton 2-1 Man City
- Brighton 0-4 Man City
- Man City 2-1 Brighton
- Brighton 1-1 Man City
- Man City 3-1 Brighton
Prediction & Betting Tips
Despite City’s recent struggles, their strong home record suggests they will put up a fight. Brighton’s attacking form makes them a genuine threat, but Guardiola’s men will be desperate to respond after last weekend’s disappointment. Expect an open contest with plenty of chances at both ends.
Prediction: Manchester City to win & both teams to score.
